Decorating
10 Ways to Make Your Statement Mirror the Fairest of Them All
Choose a mirror that not only makes a mega reflective impact but does it with maximum style
As a famous character once said: “Mirror, mirror on the wall, which style is the fairest of them all?” Okay, so maybe it didn’t go quite like that but it could easily have done. There are literally hundreds of different mirror options for your home and you almost need special powers to work out which one is best for you. Hopefully, after reading this, the guesswork (and your psychic abilities) will have less to do with your choice because you’ll be more educated as to why a certain style will work for you over another.
Mirrors have the ability to turn your room from bland to brilliant on one easy step. As is commonly known, they make a room appear larger, but they also add light, define a space, transform undesirable walls, act as an artwork and conversation-starter, or simply serve as a focal point for the room. As such, your selection has to make a statement because there’s no point having something on show that’s average or unappealing to the eye. Everyone will be looking at it (or at the very least, themselves in it) so it has to make some sort of impact.
If you have a rough size as well as a potential position in your home in mind for a mirror, then that’s a great starting point. We can help with the rest…
Mirrors have the ability to turn your room from bland to brilliant on one easy step. As is commonly known, they make a room appear larger, but they also add light, define a space, transform undesirable walls, act as an artwork and conversation-starter, or simply serve as a focal point for the room. As such, your selection has to make a statement because there’s no point having something on show that’s average or unappealing to the eye. Everyone will be looking at it (or at the very least, themselves in it) so it has to make some sort of impact.
If you have a rough size as well as a potential position in your home in mind for a mirror, then that’s a great starting point. We can help with the rest…
2. Think outside the rectangle
Ditch the idea that standard shapes are best. You can also experiment with the ratio of glass to frame. If the primary role of your mirror is form and not function, you can be more creative with expanding the width and design of your frame, while keeping the glass section smaller.
Ditch the idea that standard shapes are best. You can also experiment with the ratio of glass to frame. If the primary role of your mirror is form and not function, you can be more creative with expanding the width and design of your frame, while keeping the glass section smaller.
3. Consider it artwork
If you’re hanging your mirror in a space traditionally suited to an installation or painting (such as above a fireplace), then treat it as such. Look for unusual designs and materials that are more akin to sculpture and light reflection, and you’ll definitely receive positive reviews from guests.
If you’re hanging your mirror in a space traditionally suited to an installation or painting (such as above a fireplace), then treat it as such. Look for unusual designs and materials that are more akin to sculpture and light reflection, and you’ll definitely receive positive reviews from guests.
4. Play with contrast
Don’t think that because your room is all-white, or all-blue, or all-pink, that your mirror has to match. Here is the perfect example of how opposite colours complement each other to create visual impact.
Don’t think that because your room is all-white, or all-blue, or all-pink, that your mirror has to match. Here is the perfect example of how opposite colours complement each other to create visual impact.
5. Inject a sensational hue
Likewise, if you get a kick out of a splash of bright colour then, by all means, choose your mirror according to the adage: the bolder the better. This hot pink frame lifts an otherwise pleasant (but slightly bland) bathroom to fabulous fluoro heights.
Likewise, if you get a kick out of a splash of bright colour then, by all means, choose your mirror according to the adage: the bolder the better. This hot pink frame lifts an otherwise pleasant (but slightly bland) bathroom to fabulous fluoro heights.
6. Think of the positioning
This one is a given: you do need to know whether your mirror is the hero or going to be part of a greater set-up. If it’s the latter, take your cue from a mirror like this, which has been edited in harmony with the side table and chair. Yes, it’s neutral but the scale makes it stand out beautifully.
This one is a given: you do need to know whether your mirror is the hero or going to be part of a greater set-up. If it’s the latter, take your cue from a mirror like this, which has been edited in harmony with the side table and chair. Yes, it’s neutral but the scale makes it stand out beautifully.
7. Don’t let it fly solo
If your space is suitable, you can create a collage of mirrors. Search for one-off vintage styles or retro mirrors in unusual shapes that can be placed together to enhance interest.
If your space is suitable, you can create a collage of mirrors. Search for one-off vintage styles or retro mirrors in unusual shapes that can be placed together to enhance interest.
8. Go beyond 2D
Styles that come out from the wall can be visually stunning. However, a subtle backdrop is imperative to prevent the room looking too busy and messy. We love how this coral-inspired frame looks like softly-whipped cream against the lightly-textured wallpaper of this bathroom.
Styles that come out from the wall can be visually stunning. However, a subtle backdrop is imperative to prevent the room looking too busy and messy. We love how this coral-inspired frame looks like softly-whipped cream against the lightly-textured wallpaper of this bathroom.
9. Alignment matters
Don’t believe anyone who says statement mirrors should only be vertical. Horizontal versions can be just as effective, especially when you are working with a long wall. If your space is relatively vast and blank, go wide.
Don’t believe anyone who says statement mirrors should only be vertical. Horizontal versions can be just as effective, especially when you are working with a long wall. If your space is relatively vast and blank, go wide.
10. Go bold or go home
If you know deep down you like drama (think swirls, shadow and unique mosaic detailing), then commit to your look with gusto. Think of it this way: being restrained in a powder room like this would garner an equally restrained reaction. But with a mirror like this? No chance.
If you know deep down you like drama (think swirls, shadow and unique mosaic detailing), then commit to your look with gusto. Think of it this way: being restrained in a powder room like this would garner an equally restrained reaction. But with a mirror like this? No chance.
And a few other things to think about before you make your reflection selection…
If you’re in love with the notion of a statement mirror but convinced you have no where for it, why not go outside? There’s no rule stating they are only to be used indoors. In fact, rustic styles like this look positively pretty in a courtyard. Just ensure the frame is weatherproof – you don’t want rust streaking down the glass.
If you’re in love with the notion of a statement mirror but convinced you have no where for it, why not go outside? There’s no rule stating they are only to be used indoors. In fact, rustic styles like this look positively pretty in a courtyard. Just ensure the frame is weatherproof – you don’t want rust streaking down the glass.
Art Deco never gets old. Period. The shapes are simply stunning and an ideal option if you know you want something striking but not contemporary.
Your mirror doesn’t have to be mounted. Wide, oversized styles look great leaning against a blank wall, especially in a dressing room.
Is one not enough? No problem. Two can look even better. Especially in a symmetrical situation like this nautical-themed, dual-basin bathroom.
Metallic frames look great against a bold colour. This silver starburst mirror brings a sense of light and energy to this living room.
Banish the notion that framed mirrors are all sleek and linear. Search for different finishes, raw edges and natural materials, such as this unusual design made from beautiful driftwood.