Dressers are a key part of any bedroom, serving as both storage and decor for your space. Choosing the right dresser types and dresser designs for your style and the space you’re working with is essential. It’s important that your bedroom dresser serves all of your needs and doesn’t get in your way. Follow this in-depth guide to determine which dressers are a perfect fit for your bedroom aesthetic and storage needs.

Dressers vs. Chests

What’s the difference between dressers and chests? While these decorative storage pieces look very similar, there are a few differences that could affect which you choose to go with. Dressers are typically wide and short, with the intention of creating storage space on top and a place for a mirror, while chests are narrow and tall in order to provide lots of drawers and take up minimal floor space. Choosing between these different types of storage comes down to your space’s needs and how you plan on using this furniture in your day-to-day routine.

Dresser Types

Double Dresser

Double dresser designs have two columns of wide drawers, pretty easy to remember! This dresser style works best for those who have a larger bedroom and require a lot of storage space for clothing and other items. Double dressers work best in large spaces they won’t overwhelm. We recommend having 60ʺ – 70ʺ of space for a double dresser.

Dresser With Mirror

This style is just as it sounds – a dresser that is accompanied with a mirror that hangs directly above, making it easier to get ready. Buying a matching mirror makes styling your bedroom a breeze and gives the room a more cohesive flow. Dresser types that have a coordinating mirror instantly become the statement piece in your bedroom, so make sure you choose a set that matches your overall design.

Chest Types

Lingerie Chest

These chests are long, slim, and narrow to take up minimum space in your room without compromising storage for clothing. A lingerie chest is the best furniture choice if you’re tight on space; they fit into smaller areas and can be placed by your bed, in the bathroom, or in your closet.

Media Chest

A media chest is just what it sounds like: It provides storage space for personal items but also has space for electronics, like a TV. There’s also space to inconspicuously store wires and different consoles. It’s best to place a media chest across from your bed, so you have the perfect view of your entertainment system.

Bachelor Chest

This chest is smaller and more shallow than a standard dresser, with three to four drawers provided for storage. The chest originally got its bachelor title because it was ideal for someone living alone, but today it refers to a smaller chest style.

Materials

Choosing the right material for your dresser plays a big part in building on your bedroom’s overall design. The finish and textures of these materials are very different, so pick which speaks most to your vision.

Wood is the most popular material for dresser designs. You can find a wide variety of tones, wood types, and finishes to add depth and character. Wood dressers are available in solid wood, engineered wood, or a mix of both. Solid wood is durable and has a unique, natural grain, while engineered wood is low-maintenance and warp-resistant. A dresser made from both solid and engineered wood is durable and low-maintenance. Wood works in almost every bedroom; it fits seamlessly into many aesthetics and serves as a perfect transitional material.

Metal is best as an accent on your dresser for a pop of glam and luxury. Metal handles and drawer pulls in black or brown add a rustic touch. Elements of gold, silver, copper, or bronze make for a modern or elegant finish.

Dresser Sizing: How to Find the Right Size

Dressers are designed to stand at your waist – making accessing items and using the top for storage easier. A standard dresser is 36" – 60" wide and 16" – 20" deep. Before you buy, measure the width and depth of your space. Choose a dresser that fits within the dimensions while allowing enough space to pull out the drawers and move around. In order to open your drawers with ease, there should be at least 36" of space between the front of your dresser and any other piece of furniture.

Dresser Designs: Find the Right Style for Your Bedroom Aesthetic

Rustic Styles

Dressers with dark or untreated wood finishes fit the rustic aesthetic which focuses on mixing natural elements, neutral color palettes, and straight, clean lines. Keep your bedroom dresser choice simple and effortless: Think woods like cherry, pine, and oak; smooth or unfinished surfaces; or consider a dark wicker texture for your dresser.

Modern Styles

Create an effortlessly cool, high-end style with a sleek, vertical chest. Straight lines and neutral colors (Think: black or blond wood) will give the minimalist feel a modern space strives to achieve. When picking out mid-century dresser types, focus on designs with clean, straight lines, boxy shapes, and metal knobs or pulls.

Traditional Styles

A dresser with medium to dark wood and a straight-lined silhouette easily fits into a traditional-style space that features bold patterns and neutral tones. You can also choose a more ornate style with intricate carvings to add to the traditional aesthetic.

Transitional Styles

Transitional design blends classic traditional styles with modern and contemporary styles. Together, they become one effortless, cohesive design. They are versatile, high-quality, and can complement any decor. Choose a dresser that combines straight lines and curved lines or a mix of dark wood and metal accents.

Pro Tip: To learn more about transitional design, read our guide What Is Transitional Style?

Ready to find your new dresser?