What is a dressing table for?
The procedure for transforming an ordinary woman into an irresistible beauty required a large amount of incense, powder, and lipstick. In order to always have any cosmetic product at hand, it was necessary to come up with a storage place. A small table with a mirror installed on it became such a place of magic.
It is a very charming piece of furniture that gives the environment a special character and unique charm.
This simple design turned out to be very convenient and has been tested for many decades. And today, when not every apartment has “extra” meters, modern fashionistas find a place for a small table on which they store their cosmetic “wealth”.
A makeup table will become a particularly relevant and interesting decoration for a small room.
Design
This piece of furniture, ordinary at first glance, has a very diverse design. In stores you will find models from classic to ultra-modern. You can easily choose the option that suits your hallway. In addition, there is always the opportunity to order a dressing table or trellis according to individual parameters. It is important that the style of the mirror itself matches the design solution of the room.
The dressing table is often represented exclusively by one mirror.
Recently, models in the Provence style are in increasing demand. The cabinet is very similar to a dressing table. It is very important to have the effect of aged wood and an unobtrusive floral print.
Country style, or rustic, is manifested in a dressing table made of rough wood in a natural shade. Often such models are decorated with forged elements.
When choosing one or another type of decorative piece of furniture, you should take into account the parameters of the room and its area.
For a classic style, the model is made of natural wood (the darker the natural shade, the better). Of course, in this case you can’t do without elegant gold monograms, spectacular legs and luxurious mirror design. Well, for the Baroque or Rococo style, gilding is necessarily used.
A piece of furniture must stylistically match the design of the entire room and be its mandatory addition.
In fairness, it is worth noting that a dressing table in the hallway is a suitable interior element not only for elegant styles. Modern high-tech “gets along” perfectly with this accessory if it is made of plastic and the mirror is framed by a simple narrow frame, without any decor. Correct shape, symmetry, no decorations and restrained colors. Instead of plastic, metal or glass is often used - these are also materials ideal for modern style.
If you want to slightly expand the hallway room and add volume to it, it is best to choose a mirror larger than the cabinet or table on which it will be located.
The loft style has recently been considered one of the most popular and often used for design. Since the style itself presupposes the presence of open brickwork, visible communications and a gray-black palette, a dressing table with a mirror in the hallway should correspond to this “image”. The model must be of impressive size and unusual shape. An appropriate accent would be graffiti on a large mirror canvas in a rough frame.
Try to choose dressing table models that have drawers for storing things
Both the dressing table and the trellis, regardless of what style they are made in and what kind of hallway they decorate, must match the overall color scheme of the room. Matching is manifested either in duplication of color scheme or in clear contrast. In the latter case, it is important that in the hallway the contrasting color is present in some element other than the dressing table.
Make sure you have good lighting in advance so that the dressing table is not in the shadows and you enjoy looking into it.
It's no secret that there is often a lack of light in the hallway. This is often compensated for by additional lamps or sconces. This problem can be solved with the help of an illuminated dressing table. Additional lighting is located along the contour of the mirror surface and makes the process of applying makeup and combing your hair more comfortable. In addition to functionality, such models also look very stylish and impressive, which is also important. Finally, this is an ideal solution for small hallways, which, as experience shows, is the vast majority.
If there is enough free space in the hallway, you can place an ottoman or a chair.
What is the name of a ladies table with a mirror?
A ladies table with a mirror has been used for centuries. Beauties of the 21st century also use it, but not everyone knows the correct name of this piece of furniture, which was originally part of a set, and later began to be used as an independent item, but not everyone knows the name of a small table with a mirror for cosmetics.
This small table received its funny name, a dressing table, which seems to our young contemporaries, but it is quite natural and has a historical explanation.
A little bit of history
A short excursion into history will help you find out what a woman’s table with a mirror is called. Fashion historians find mention of this element of furniture already in English records from two hundred years ago. It was installed in the bedroom, where there was a bed, a chest of drawers for linen, chairs or small stools and a table, which was completely at the lady’s disposal, where she displayed cosmetic and perfume accessories.
This location near the window guarantees high-quality natural light.
It is all the more surprising that it received its name not in prim England, but in sophisticated France. Its name is of French origin: “toilette”, which means outfit, suit, clothing. That is, this table means the place where the ladies dressed up. It is interesting that the ancient Egyptians used various incense for beauty, but did without this piece of furniture. This is due to the historical traditions of the states. In particular, the tradition of daily hygienic care did not immediately arise, even in later times in what seems to us to be an enlightened Europe.
A cute and comfortable dressing table is not only a dream, but also a necessity for every modern woman.
Without going deeply into the history of European hygiene traditions, it is worth noting that only from the middle of the 17th century did individual body care begin to be given significant importance. It is with attention to this area of human life that the appearance of stands in bedrooms is associated with the appearance of jugs of water and containers into which water was drained. Small tables have become the most convenient for these installations.
There was another reason for its appearance. The 17th century in France was a time of balls in palaces and luxurious outfits that could change several times during the many-hour celebration. A new outfit required a different make-up, and this required places to place cosmetics.
In modern design, this functional and useful interior element is again gaining popularity.
Gradually, from a purely functional item, the dressing table turned into a spectacular piece of expensive furniture. A mirror was attached to it, which was often placed in a beautiful gilded frame, and the table itself was decorated with fine inlay; its shape acquired signs of the Baroque style fashionable at that time. In addition, it was equipped with drawers, which significantly increased the value of the dressing table.
The selected table should be made of durable and high-quality materials.
Russian young ladies received dressing tables at their disposal in the 18th century and were immediately appreciated by them. Cosmetics and perfume bottles were stored in it; They dressed up in front of him after waking up and before going out in the evening.
By the way, it was originally intended not only for women: men also used it as a stand for a jug of water and a basin for washing.
Check whether the table is treated with a special coating that will prevent dirt and minor mechanical damage.
What is it called in different countries
The dressing table was firmly established in the boudoirs of noble ladies. At the same time, it was constantly changing, shape and size were transformed, as a result, several versions of this furniture appeared in different countries, which were called differently:
- in England they used a design of two bedside tables connected to each other and a mirror attached to them, which was called the Kneehole;
- Poudreuse - a small table with a mirror used widely in France;
- what is the name of a three-leaf mirror with a bedside table? We found out when the trellis appeared - a furniture set that included a table or cabinet with a three-leaf mirror and an ottoman;
- the so-called manor table became a Russian version of the dressing table, which was used in the 19th century and was a chest of drawers with a mirror attached to it.
Any quality vanity table will have good and detailed instructions.
On the verge of the 17th and 18th centuries, another piece of furniture appeared - a dressing table (with a strange translation from French, meaning “pier”, “pier”. It was a full-length mirror, which was initially placed in the pier between the window openings, and was later placed on legs.
Before you start choosing, you need to decide how many items you will store in it.
Types of dressing tables and their arrangement
Dressing tables have not lost their relevance today and are presented in various versions with the obligatory installation of a mirror:
- a dressing table that can be installed in small rooms: it will visually enlarge it;
- the tricuspid trellis is designed for side viewing and can be used for self-styling hair;
- An interesting option was a table with a rotating mirror mounted on a rotating platform; it has two sides: one – normal, the other – with an increase in the image, which is especially valuable when applying makeup;
- the console is decorated with a retractable mirror, which can be pulled out as needed; at the same time, the surface of the table can be used not only for its intended purpose, but also as a writing desk;
- A designer dressing table will look spectacular.
Please note that a large number of shelves and drawers affects the size and bulkiness of the selected model.
How to post
A dressing table can be of different sizes and shapes, but the main functional detail of this interior element is (in addition to the mirror) the drawers. Therefore, a dressing table is an excellent option for those who value order in everything.
If you want to diversify the hallway with something unusual, then a good and even effective solution would be to purchase a dressing table made to match the style of the dressing room.
Hallways with insufficient lighting and small dimensions will “make friends” with models made of plastic or glass. The glossy surface visually increases the space, and the play of light and reflectivity of smooth surfaces creates the effect of sufficient illumination. In this case, the best choice would be models in white and all its shades (milk, ivory).
Be sure to pay attention to dressing tables with glass or mirror tops.
For country mansions with spacious hallways, the best choice would be massive structures made of natural wood with stylish decor and a large mirror in a matching frame. Today you can even buy models decorated with real gold and precious stones. It is clear that the cost of such dressing tables is exorbitant. By the way, the effect of artificial aging of wood is increasingly being used. It looks very stylish.
If your hallway room is decorated in the Empire, Art Deco or glamor style, then it is best to purchase a luxurious and elegant dressing table made of wood with carved details.
An obvious fact: a dressing table with a mirror is a necessary thing. You can place such an interior element on any square meters. A decent assortment guarantees you a suitable choice for any interior. The main thing is to purchase a model from a trusted seller who guarantees quality and a long period of operation.
You can place the dressing table at your discretion, the main thing is that it does not block the passage in the hallway and does not stand very close to the front door.
The nuances of creating the right lighting
An important component of the effective use of a dressing table is proper lighting. It’s good if the room is sunny, and when applying makeup, the face is illuminated by natural light.
- The most successful option would be to place the table near a window through which daylight will evenly illuminate your face. In this case, the mirror is installed with its back side facing the window.
- It is good to position the structure so that the sun's rays penetrate from the left side, although the illumination will not be as uniform as in the first case.
- The entry of light from the right side will not be the most correct solution, and the light will be distributed unevenly.
With a little thought, you can find the optimal solution for your interior.
However, it is necessary to take into account that the face needs to be put in order in the evening. Artificial lighting will help with this: the lamp should be positioned so that the face is fully illuminated. The most rational solution would be a “light frame” in which you can enclose a mirror. This method of lighting will create the most comfortable conditions.
When you choose a dressing table and a chair or ottoman for it, be guided by your height and try to sit down at it in the store.
If this is not possible, you can place wall or floor lamps on both sides near the dressing table. They should distribute soft, even light, without harsh shadows.
Attention! It is not recommended to use energy-saving cold light lamps for lighting: they will make the face excessively pale, and applying cosmetics will not bring the desired effect.
Don't forget to install sockets near the dressing table.
Backlight Features
To make it more convenient to take care of themselves, ladies prefer to have a dressing table with an illuminated mirror. Just a few years ago, only incandescent lamps were used. For normal lighting (read - for bright light), there can be at least a dozen lamps, but they usually use 40 W and no more. The light turns out warm, bright if the sources are located on the sides or along the perimeter, the lighting is uniform without shadows.
Mirror lighting for a dressing table is done on the sides or along the perimeter
Even, bright lighting for makeup is good. But, due to rising prices for electricity, old incandescent lamps are being replaced everywhere with more economical ones. But here you have to be careful. Housekeepers (fluorescent lamps, but with a regular base) and some LED lamps distort color perception. If you use such lamps to illuminate your dressing table, your makeup may come in strange colors. Therefore, when choosing lamps, pay attention to the glow temperature. Ideally, a natural or warm yellow and not too high brightness.
They also illuminate the mirror using an LED strip. The principle is the same here - choose white LEDs with a natural glow or warm yellow. When installing an LED strip, do not forget about the need to remove heat - when overheated, the LEDs quickly dim. For better heat dissipation, a strip of metal (aluminum) is laid, and an LED strip is glued onto it.
Stores sell various illuminated mirrors, i.e. You can buy a separate table and a mirror with lighting for makeup. In many cases, you can limit yourself to a compact desktop option.
If among your relatives or friends there is a home craftsman, then you can make a mirror for almost any taste and color. See the example in the video.
Seat selection
The makeup application procedure takes a significant amount of time, so it is important to sit comfortably near the mirror on the seat. Suitable for this:
- ottoman - a low stool with a soft seat;
- a comfortable armchair or chair;
- small soft sofa.
If you want to approach your makeup on a more professional level, then lighting will come to your aid.
The choice of seat is not of fundamental importance, the main thing is that it is comfortable for the owner herself.
The nuances of choosing a dressing table
When placing a dressing table in the interior, it is important that it is easy to use and fits into the overall interior of the room, is spacious, durable and stable. The most successful installation location is considered to be the bedroom, but when choosing, it is worth considering some features that will help you conveniently place it in a room of any size:
- if the room is spacious enough, the main condition will be the correct placement of the table and its harmonious design combination with other furniture;
- for a small bedroom a corner table is suitable;
- if the bedroom does not exist as a separate room, an impromptu dressing table can be decorated by installing a mirror on a chest of drawers or bedside table as needed, providing good lighting;
- a table in a minimalist style can be hidden by a curtain or cabinet door;
- in a room with a minimal set of furniture, you can use a compact console with an almost invisible storage system and a light chair or ottoman.
If the room allows, place a table by the window. Natural light is the best companion for beautiful makeup and beautiful hair.
Where to put the table
The quality of makeup application depends on the correct placement of the dressing table.
The most acceptable location is near the window, when daylight evenly fills the room.
When deciding on a particular model of dressing table, pay attention to its capacity.
Less successful would be to place it sideways near the window, so that the light falls from the left side, without the appearance of shadows on the face.
You should not place it in front of a window: your face will be in the shade, and applying makeup will be extremely inconvenient. In addition, if the sun often peeks into the room, its rays reflected from the mirror surface will create extremely unfavorable conditions for carrying out procedures.
The number of drawers and shelves has a positive effect on the placement of necessary small items.
Where to put + unusual models for small rooms
First you need to decide where to put the dressing table. The most logical and convenient option is in the bedroom. Here we are looking for free space and deciding on the size. Then it’s a matter of choosing style and color.
Traditional arrangement
Not everyone has a dedicated bedroom. What should you do if you have to sleep in the living room, which turns into a bedroom at night? A traditional dressing table would be out of place here. There are several options for this case.
Built-in cabinet
If the room has a large wardrobe, one of the sections can be set aside for a table, a retractable table top, drawers, and a mirror can be installed.
Doors can also be sliding
The shelves above the mirror are used “for their intended purpose” - for storing clothes. Convenient option. But the lower part will be unusable. There will be a chair/banquette there, and you can also put your feet there. If the tabletop is as long as in the photo above, the sides can be filled with drawers. What to store in them - cosmetics or other things - depends on the wishes of the owners.
Combined with desktop/computer desk
The next option is to install models with a folding mirror. When folded, such a dressing table looks like an ordinary work or computer table. By the way, you can work on it. You need to “beautify” - the lid rises, a mirror appears, and under it there are compartments for cosmetics. Part of it can be kept in drawers under the tabletop or on the side - on consoles.
If you lower the lid/mirror, you will have a normal desktop
For a dressing table combined with a computer desk, the lighting of the mirror should be thought out. In this case, an LED strip is definitely used, so before purchasing it is worth checking whether the colors are reproduced correctly.
Interesting idea
Another option for a “hidden” makeup table is with a part of the tabletop that rolls to the side. When folded, this piece of furniture looks like an ordinary chest of drawers. The top line of drawers rolls to the side and the lid rises. And so - you have a chest of drawers on the side, and in front of you is a full-fledged dressing table with a backlit mirror. The only thing is that you will have to figure out where to put the chair/banquette.
What other types of furniture are there for cosmetics?
It is not always possible to purchase a full-fledged dressing table. This problem is especially relevant for residents of small apartments, where every centimeter is accounted for. However, this does not mean that a woman needs to give up self-care.
Do not forget that the table should also convey elegance and beauty, and not be a piece of furniture for a warehouse.
Many cosmetics and perfumes are stored in the bathroom, but this is not always convenient: high humidity in the room creates discomfort when applying makeup. But even in a small room you can find a place to store cosmetics and apply makeup. To do this, you can use a chest of drawers or a cabinet with a removable mirror. You can store a large amount of cosmetics on their shelves. At the same time, she will be reliably protected from “encroachments” by children and inattentive handling of medications by other family members.
For cosmetic procedures, if it is not possible to install a dressing table, you can use a desk, where you can place a mirror as needed, and at least one of the drawers can be used for storing cosmetics.
The entire process of choosing a mirror configuration depends entirely on your preferences and needs.
In particularly difficult situations, a folding structure installed on the inside of the door of a women's wardrobe with a mirror can be used as a dressing table. Drugs can be stored on a specially installed molding there.
Peculiarities
A dressing table in the hallway makes it more convenient to get ready before leaving the house. You can evaluate your wardrobe, take a closer look at your hair and makeup, and when you go out on business, be absolutely sure that everything is in order.
Today, a dressing table is not only an excellent place to store cosmetics and various small items, but also an opportunity to admire yourself at any time of the day or night.
In general, a dressing table is nothing more than a table with a mirror cloth attached to it. The classic design assumes the presence of additional shelves (or drawers) on the sides for storing small items. Sometimes it comes in the form of a secretary, and then the mirror is located on a hinged lid - if you want to look at yourself, open the lid, and then simply lower the tabletop and can be used as a work surface.
A dressing table with a mirror is a small and often low table with drawers and shelves for storing various equipment.
It is worth noting that a dressing table is considered a traditionally feminine item of clothing, since it is very convenient to do makeup or hairstyle behind it. And many years ago it was considered a luxury item, since not every lady could afford it. However, recently this piece of furniture is increasingly appearing in hallways, and not just in bedrooms, so the gender of the dressing table is no longer relevant.
Mostly this piece of furniture is for women, since ladies can put on makeup and do their hair at such a table.
As you can see, a mirror with a shelf for the hallway, so popular just a few decades ago, is gradually losing its relevance, giving way to a dressing table or trellis for the hallway.
Numeaus are often placed not only in bedrooms, but also in hallways, considering this furniture to be more universal.
How to care for your dressing table
Like any piece of furniture, it requires certain care, depending on the material from which it is made:
- the surface of a dressing table made of chipboard (pressed sawdust) is quite fragile and deformed under the influence of moisture: to care for it, it is enough to wipe the surface with damp wipes using mild cleaning agents;
- MDF is a higher quality and wear-resistant material, but when maintaining it you need to avoid using abrasives;
- It is enough to wipe natural wood with a napkin and treat the surface of the table with special high-quality cleaning agents with antistatic properties;
- caring for mirror surfaces is traditional.
The main rule when choosing a table with a mirror is absolute ease of use.
If you follow these simple rules, the furniture will look aesthetically pleasing for a long time.
How to choose
When deciding what to choose: a dressing table or a trellis, consider the area of the room. In addition, the size and shape of the hallway will tell you what is more suitable in your case: a corner model or a straight one. When deciding on the height of the mirror, give preference to the tallest one. This is correct, first of all, because in small corridors it is not always possible to take a couple of steps back and look at yourself from head to toe.
The most profitable solution would be to purchase a table with a high mirror.
Narrow tables are considered the most suitable for modest dimensions. After all, in the hallway you need not only to get yourself in order, but also, perhaps, to miss other family members. In other words, free space will not hurt.
If your family has small children and active pets, do not buy a dressing table with sharp corners, give preference to rounded models. This is guaranteed to protect against injury.
You can easily find various options for both modern and classic interior design styles.
The number of boxes deserves special attention. It’s worth thinking in advance about what exactly you are going to store in the depths of this piece of furniture, and only then choosing a larger or smaller number of drawers, shelves and stands.
Miniature tables in a classic design can easily become an excellent addition to a small hallway room.
It is important that both the mirror and the dressing table model fit harmoniously into the overall design concept.
Pay close attention to the reliability of the model. If already at the purchase stage the dressing table sways and the mirror is secured in a questionable way, then check whether this can be fixed, and if not, look for another option. Also pay attention to the materials from which the furniture is made. Give preference to environmentally friendly options. Finally, since the dressing table will be installed in the hallway, dirt will periodically appear on it. Choose a material that is easy to clean.
Wooden dressing tables, antique-style and complemented with decorative fittings, look very elegant.
