Dresser decor ideas are all about striking the right balance between intentional organization and thoughtful accent pieces. The key to styling a dresser top is to start with a clean slate. So clear everything off of your dresser, give it a good dusting, and then continue reading our tips below to learn how to style a dresser like a designer.

1. Start With an Anchor

When decorating a dresser, the first thing you'll want to take note of is actually the space above the dresser. Choose an essential like a wall mirror or framed art to anchor the dresser in its place. We love a circular mirror because it visually balances out the vertical lines of a dresser. If your dresser is tall, center the mirror or art directly above it. If your dresser is wide, place the mirror or art on one side of it. If your dresser is in front of a window, you don't have to worry about an anchor. Let the natural sunlight into your bedroom without obstructing it.

2. Create Height

Once you've got your anchor, give your dresser some height by adding tapered candlesticks, a bone-inlay vase, or a lamp. If you're decorating a dresser that's wide, place the tall object on the opposite side of the mirror or wall art. Make sure that the tall piece is shorter than your anchor so that the two don't have to compete for attention. We prefer placing the mirror or art on the left side of the dresser top and the tall object on the right; that way your eye will naturally "read" the dresser from left to right like a book.

3. Include a Few Unfussy & Understated Pieces

Now it's time to curate a few intentional home decor accent pieces. Since you'll be looking at your dresser every day, it's important to choose thoughtful touches that bring you peace or highlight a happy memory. We love clustering together a couple of framed photos or a stack of our favorite books. If your drawer dresser is on the smaller side, you can stack books underneath your tall object to give it a bit of extra height. Dresser decor ideas are all about mixing materials and shapes – like a wooden bowl, a bamboo tray, glass lamps, and marble bookends.

4. Add Thoughtful Storage

Styling a dresser is just as important as keeping it organized. Add a thoughtful storage accessory to make sure the top of your vanity stays neat and clutter-free. We're loving rustic ceramic bowls and rattan accent trays. A bowl is the perfect space to drop your keys and baubles. Use a tray to organize perfumes, face oils, or vitamins in your bedroom. Storage is so important because you don't want your dresser top to become overcrowded.

5. Layer, Edit & Repeat

Styling a dresser isn't just a onetime thing – let your pieces evolve with the seasons and the transitions of your style. Keeping a bit of blank space on the surface of your dresser is important for getting ready in the morning. We like to do this by layering pieces. Small frames can be leaned up against larger ones. Candles and other decorative pieces can live on top of a stack of books. Keep trying new dresser decor ideas until you find a setup that works for you.

Ready to style your dresser?