Between mirrors’ light-throwing properties and their ability to make a space appear larger than it actually is, there’s no shortage of reasons to add a mirror to your space. Picking a vintage mirror, however, is no easy task. Between round mirrors, Trumeau mirrors, convex mirrors, and pier mirrors (to name just a few!), there are a lot to consider. How do you know which one is right for your space? Ahead, we give you a quick master class on how to pick the perfect looking glass.
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Where Are You Placing Your Mirror?
Take a moment to consider where you’re hoping to install your mirror. Over a mantel? If so, you might want to consider a mirror custom-designed to adorn the over-the-mantel space. These options can include a trumeau mirror or an aptly-named mantel mirror. If you’re looking for a mirror to hang over a sofa or in an entry, you might want to choose a more standard mirror. Options can include a classic round wall mirror or a rectangular wall mirror. If you’re looking for a mirror to use in a bedroom, you might want to try a standing cheval mirror or a floor mirror.
Choose a Mirror Shape
Round mirrors can be ideal for breaking up a surplus of right angles in a room. For an unexpected twist, you might also consider something like a round mirror set in a square frame. Similarly, hexagonal mirrors can lend an intriguing graphic note. For rooms where you’re using a mirror to make the room look bigger, you might want to consider a basic square or rectangular mirror. They’ll cover the most surface space — hence maximizing the optical illusion. If you’re looking for a mirror to fit on an abbreviated wall, try a rectangular trumeau or pier mirror.
Choose a Mirror Style
Mirrors can be sourced in just about every style imaginable, from Rococo to Memphis. When shopping for mirrors for sale, your room’s style will likely strongly influence what mirror you pick. That said, a few mirror styles are timeless and work exceptionally well in a wide array of spaces.
Sunburst Mirror
Sunburst mirrors are round mirrors that feature a center circular mirror surrounded by sun ray-like spires. These mirrors are nearly almost always gold in color, but they can be sourced in other colors such as brown wicker or black enamel. While the most classic sunburst mirrors are traditionally French in style, they have been reinterpreted in styles as varied as Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Mid-Century Modern, and beyond.
Louis Philippe Mirror
A Louis Philippe mirror is an arched mirror with mitered corners encased in a wide gold frame. These style-agnostic mirrors are a decorator favorite and fuse easily with virtually any style.
Lead image design Ashley Whittaker / Photo by Max Kim-Bee / D
