Having a dedicated dressing area can make getting ready in the mornings a breeze. Whether you have a spacious master suite or a tiny bedroom, there are ways to carve out a dressing space that works for your lifestyle and budget. Here are 10 tips for creating a functional and fashionable dressing area, no matter the size of your room.
Evaluate Your Needs
Before designing your dressing space, take time to evaluate how you will use the area. Consider these questions:
- How many clothes and accessories will be stored in the dressing area? Take an inventory of your wardrobe items.
- Will you be dressing alone or with a partner? If sharing, you’ll need room for two.
- Do you need a dressing table for makeup and getting ready? How much counter space is ideal?
- What storage elements can optimize organization – drawers, shelves, racks, or hanging space?
- Do you prefer an open layout or separate closet and dressing area?
- Will a single dresser suffice or do you need a double to accommodate items?
- How much natural light is needed? Skylights and windows help create a bright space.
- Do you need seating? An ottoman or bench can be useful when putting on shoes.
Analyzing how you’ll utilize the dressing space will guide what features to look for. Determine must-haves versus nice-to-haves so the area caters to your needs.
Use Wall-Mounted Storage
In a small bedroom, take advantage of vertical wall space to get clothes and accessories up and out of the way. Wall-mounted shelving, racks, cabinets and rods can provide ample storage while freeing up valuable floor area. Sturdy shelves double as display space for frequently worn items like jeans, sweaters and shoes. Hang pants and shirts on double hanging rods to double your capacity.
For a custom look, have cabinetry built floor-to-ceiling with shelves or drawers to maximize every inch. Incorporate specialized pull-out trays or jewelry drawers to keep accessories neatly organized. Mirrors visually expand the space.
Install Closet Organization Systems
Pre-designed closet organization systems make it easy to outfit your dressing area with coordinated storage components. Modular wire shelving units, drawers, racks and cubbies can be arranged to suit your space. Look for customizable systems that offer mix-and-match components to build a custom closet layout.
Modular units with adjustable shelves let you tailor storage to your wardrobe. Opt for drawer bases combined with hanging rods up top for folded and hanging items. Locate drawers along the bottom for shoes, undergarments and accessories. Labeling individual drawers keeps everything neatly organized.
Select Multi-Use Furniture
When square footage is limited, look for streamlined, multi-use furniture that eliminates clutter. An armoire with adjustable shelves and hanging rod can store folded, hanging and accessory items all in one piece. Look for an armoire with interior storage fittings to optimize the interior space.
A storage ottoman at the foot of the bed is useful for seasonal clothing, extra bedding or shoes. Under-bed storage takes advantage of wasted space for bulky items. Choose pieces like a vanity stool with storage inside to conceal hair dryers, brushes and makeup. Dual-purpose furniture minimizes unused floor space.
Add Floor-to-Ceiling Drapes
Floor-to-ceiling drapes instantly provide privacy and a dressing room vibe even in a small corner. Mount a curtain rod near the ceiling and hang drapes to cordon off your makeshift dressing nook. Choose blackout drapes in a luxurious fabric like velvet or satin for an opulent look. Drapes can conceal open shelving and clothing racks for a tidy appearance.
Part the curtains to access your dressing area while concealing clutter when guests are over. Pull the drapes fully closed when changing for total seclusion. Floor-to-ceiling drapes delineate spaces in an open floor plan without permanent walls.
Opt for Retractable Dividers
Retractable room dividers offer privacy while preserving natural light. Choose from pleated, hinged and sliding panels in materials like rice paper, shoji, wood, metal or fabric. Japanese-style shoji screens create an elegant accent. Sliding barn-door style panels conserve space.
Position a retractable divider to portion off defined dressing and sleeping areas. During the day, slide panels open to connect spaces; at night pull screens closed for secluded dressing. This flexible system adapts to changing needs. Portable screens easily roll aside when not in use.
Use Furniture as Room Dividers
Creative furniture placement can visually define separate zones in an open bedroom. Position an armoire, screen or tall bookcase perpendicular to walls to delineate dressing and sleeping spaces. Place full-height furniture to act as a room divider, creating the feel of individual rooms.
An arrangement with furniture anchoring each area also provides useful storage space. Place racks and clothing storage along the dressing side, while positioning bedside tables and lamps on the sleeping side. Floating furniture dividers maintain an airy, open feel since walls are not permanently installed.
Build a Custom Dressing Room Closet
For the ultimate dressing experience, have an enclosed closet designed and installed just for your needs. Custom closets can be built with any configuration including shelves, drawers, shoe racks, jewelry storage, counters, mirrors, lighting and more. Mix materials like wood, glass and metals for your dream aesthetic.
Work with a closet designer to make the most of available space. A professional can design specialized storage solutions to accommodate your wardrobe and dressing habits. Communicate must-have features so your custom closet is tailored specifically for you.
While more expensive, custom closets last for years and significantly boost functionality. The tidy organization also minimizes morning dressing chaos!
Use Room Under Eaves
Don’t overlook the narrow space under sloped ceilings as a dressing nook possibility. Tuck a clothing rod and narrow shelving under eaves to take advantage of awkward areas. Customiz
Repurpose a Closet
For a quick dressing nook, repurpose an existing closet for your dressing needs. Remove generic shelving and replace with features to accommodate your wardrobe. Consider a built-in dressing table for makeup application and jewelry display. Add task lighting and a large mirror for getting ready.
Maximize hanging space with a double rod or rolling garment rack. Dedicate drawers for folded clothing and accessories. Fill shallow shelves with shoes and purses on display. Make sure interior lighting is bright and adequate for dressing. A repurposed closet quickly converts to a functional dressing room.
Carve Out an Area in Main Bedroom
Without an adjacent walk-in closet or separate dressing room, a corner of the main bedroom can double as your dressing area. Use a decorative screen or drapes to define the space. Position a clothing rack and dresser or wardrobe for ample storage. A cushioned bench provides a place to sit while dressing.
Maximize overhead space with a hanging rod positioned close to the ceiling, leaving room for shelves or drawers underneath. A tall narrow dresser tucks beside a rack for folded items. Establish distinct zones for each wardrobe function – hanging clothing, folded garments, shoes, jewelry, accessories. The right organization transforms a bedroom corner into a fitting dressing nook.
Make Use of All Vertical Space
Installing storage from floor to ceiling is a smart strategy in any size dressing area. Take advantage of vertical real estate to gain storage. In addition to hanging rods, incorporate wall-mounted cabinets and open shelving that reaches the ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases double as clothing and accessory storage.
Position frequently-worn items, like coats, bags and shoes, on easy-access shelves and racks. Place out-of-season clothing in higher cabinets and shelves to access as needed. Mounting a dressing table underneath a window preserves wall and floor space for other functions. Make the most of vertical storage zones in a petite dressing room.
Incorporate Mirrors to Expand Space
Strategically hung mirrors visually double small spaces to feel expansive and airy. Whether using a full-length mirror or creative arrangement of individual mirrors, reflective surfaces enhance light and dimensions.
Place a statement mirror above a dressing table to magnify the space. Angle mirrors across from one another to create an infinite reflection. Line one wall floor-to-ceiling with mirror panels to optically enlarge the area. Mirrored closet doors reflect light from windows. Incorporate mirrors wherever possible to make even the most compact dressing room feel grand.
Questions and Answers
Here are some common questions and answers about creating dressing areas:
What are some good organizational systems for a small closet?
Some great options for small closets include drawer organizers, hanging shoe racks, stackable plastic bins, multi-level hanging rods, and pull-out trays on casters. Look for systems that maximize vertical storage space.
What should the lighting be like in a dressing area?
Good task lighting is important for dressing areas. Aim for bright, natural light if possible. Integrate both overhead and adjustable side lighting. Wall sconces, pendant lights, and LED strip lighting are great options.
How do you define a dressing area in a bedroom without walls?
Use floor-to-ceiling drapes, screens, or furniture like wardrobes to delineate a dressing zone. Rugs and lighting can also help define separate activity areas within an open bedroom.
What are space-saving solutions for small dressing rooms?
Look for collapsible furniture like folding racks and hangers. Opt for dual-purpose furniture like storage ottomans and vanities with built-in storage. Install sliding doors and retractable dividers to save space.
Should you have a mirror in a dressing area?
Yes, mirrors are ideal for dressing areas to see outfits from all angles. Position mirrors opposite windows to reflect natural light. Full-length and adjustable mirrors are very useful for getting dressed.
What should you look for in a dressing table?
Seek a dressing table with adjustable mirrors, drawers for storage, comfortable seating and ample workspace to apply makeup. Durable, easy-to-clean surfaces are practical. Good lighting is also essential.
How can you add storage to a dressing area without permanent construction?
Free-standing options like wardrobes, garment racks, shelving units, stacking bins and storage ottomans add storage easily. Closet organization systems can also customize spaces without construction.
Should you have a chair in your walk-in closet?
Yes, a chair or ottoman in your closet is handy for trying on shoes or clothing. It also provides a place to sit while getting dressed or selecting outfits.
What types of storage should you look for in a dressing room?
A combination of hanging rods, drawers, shelves, shoe storage, and specialty storage for jewelry, purses, and accessories is ideal. Built-in storage makes the best use of space.
Conclusion
There are many creative ways to carve out a functional dressing space, whether you have a spacious master suite or snug bedroom. Evaluate your needs and lifestyle to determine the required features. Maximize vertical wall space with floor-to-ceiling storage systems and make smart furniture choices that serve dual purposes. With the right organizational tools and a dash of inspiration, you can enjoy the ease and convenience of a well-designed dressing area!
