Choosing the right mirror can bring a room to life. Mirrors can accentuate décor, reflect a view, add some light, create a focal point, or make a room appear larger. They come in every shape and size; vertical, horizontal, curved, oval, ornate, mid-century modern, minimalistic and more. And they can be wall-mounted, stand on the floor, swivelled or used to conceal storage. So, how do you know which one to choose?

How to choose a mirror

Choosing the right mirror depends on three key considerations: shape, size and style. Since mirrors will reflect what's in front of them – and the reflection becomes part of your room –  you need to choose the wall with care.

Which mirror shape should you choose?

The shape of the mirror you choose will help to define the space, whether by creating a mood or suggesting an illusion of something else (such as an additional area). 

  • Consider a long horizontal shape to lead the eye lengthways and accentuate width. A vertical mirror will sweep the eye upwards and accentuate the ceiling volume of a room.

  • Use a rounded or curved frame to juxtapose linear elements to soften the look. Rounded shapes are known to create a more relaxed mood.

  • If you group several mirrors together on a “gallery wall” you can create the perfect shape to suit the room.

How to choose the right mirror size

Your mirror size is all about impact. Do you want your mirror to be a focal point, an accent, or part of the background? This will dictate the size of the mirror to choose.

  • Consider scale and choose a mirror size that is scaled for the wall you have selected – too small and it will be lost.

  • To make a mirror a focal point, opt for a large, framed mirror to define it so that it stands out where it is placed.

  • An extra-large, unframed mirror that doesn’t draw attention is ideal as a background element to make your space appear larger. 

  • Use smaller mirrors as accents to catch the light or reflect interesting objects.

What style mirror should you choose?

The style of a mirror comes down to the frame – the finishing touch that defines the décor style it fits into. Ornate, carved, Scandinavian, vintage, minimal... you can choose a mirror to reflect your existing décor style in the room or opt for a juxtaposing style to create impact by making the mirror a focal point. 

  • Use an ornate, carved or gilt frame in traditional or ethnic culture-inspired décor or juxtapose it within a modern setting.

  • If you want a wood-framed mirror, a dark frame works best in more traditional interiors. To achieve a Scandinavian look, opt for a pale wood frame with simple lines.

  • Distressed looks work well for a countrycore aesthetic or eclectic rooms.

  • Glass framed mirrors, especially tinted in smoky or chocolate shades, are more contemporary.

  • Metal framed mirrors, in brass, copper or chrome, will add a decorative, industrial design appeal.

Tips to choose mirrors for your home

Here’s our room-by-room guide on how to choose the right mirror:

  1. Choose a vertical rectangular mirror to enlarge a narrow hallway (and for last-minute appearance checks at the door).

  2. Wall mirrors work well in living rooms as decorative features. Choose a shape that echoes the lines of the furniture it’s going above (think: a large, rectangular mirror above the fireplace). Or, choose a shape that is a juxtaposition (like a round mirror above a mid-century modern sideboard).

  3. Your bedroom mirror should be functional – a dressing mirror that is lean and full-length not only enhances your appearance but that of your room too.

  4. Another functional mirror choice; in the bathroom, use a mirror with storage to hide cosmetics. Choose a mirror with lights for a bathroom that lacks natural light. 

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