Are “Old-Fashioned” Antique Mirrors Making a Comeback?

It’s true; everyone wants to keep up with the times by sticking to modern and innovative mirrors like smart mirrors, but what if we told you that some of those once “dated” mirror designs are making a solid comeback?

In the words of Stephen King, “sooner or later, everything old is new again”; adding to this is the popular idiom that suggests classic designs ‘never go out of style’. Just take a look at fashion; comeback trends in clothing and accessories are a testament to these words! In fact, it’s pretty ironic that the term ‘old-fashioned’ is somewhat taboo in the world of interior design when styles like ‘antique’ and ‘vintage’ are sought after in home décor. After all, one might argue that they all mean the same thing. 

So, what does all of this have to do with mirrors? Well, if you’re looking to decorate your home with mirrors, we’re here to talk about some old-style designs that are making a comeback, and how homeowners can incorporate them into various styles of home interiors. Read on! 

Antique Wooden Flair

The craftsmanship of antique wooden mirrors is truly something to admire. Countless hours are spent on manually detailing these frames to give each piece its individual antique-style design. If you’ve never seen one up close, it’s safe to say that pictures rarely do them justice! Each naturalistic motif is beautifully carved out of solid wood and either sealed to add a glossy finish or left unsealed for a raw, natural look. While dark antique mirrors made from mahogany wood and walnut wood are typically sealed and finished, a large variety of antique wooden mirrors are stained to match or contrast earthy-toned furniture and décor.

One of the reasons why antique mirrors with wooden frames have made a comeback lies in the fact that many interior decorators are putting their own spin on modern homes by cleverly incorporating vintage accents and wooden wall paneling to highlight antiques in the room. From console tables and chests of drawers, to lighting fixtures and, of course, mirrors; antique wooden designs are all the rage (again)!

Timeless Rococo Mirrors

The unique, theatrical style of Rococo dates back to the 18th-century and was later incorporated into mirror designs that were often seen adorning walls in mansions and palaces. Fast-forward to the present day and the elaborate ornamentation of Rococo mirrors are making a comeback to compete with other trending antique mirrors. Characterised by a combination of leafy and floral motifs, Rococo mirrors are extremely bold and showy with their flamboyant, carved frames. Although typically gilded to reveal a striking, gold appearance, you can also find copper, rose gold, and silver Rococo mirrors in either matte or glossy finishes.

Owing to their heavy focus on aesthetics, intrigued homeowners have found new ways to decorate walls with these ornate mirrors by simply matching other décor pieces to the colour and style of their chosen Rococo mirror. In mid-century modern homes, a relatively large Rococo mirror can add aesthetic value and serve as a focal point when hung over a mantel or a couch. Similarly, a Rococo mirror in the bedroom is a great way to decorate and add functionality without trying too hard.

White Vintage Elegance

Very few antique mirrors can compete with the sheer class and elegance of white vintage mirrors. Truly in a league of their own, these intricately carved mirrors do not require any type of sheen or ‘bling’ to catch your eye; the matte white finish alone gives them an awe factor that can’t be missed! In fact, we’re not sure white vintage mirrors ever went out of style! Having said this, they are definitely growing in popularity now that mixing and matching different interior design/décor styles are also trending. 

In modern homes that are predominantly decorated with white ornaments, you will find a wide range of white vintage mirrors to complement your home interiors perfectly. Available in various materials and shapes, you get the best of both worlds in terms of diversified frame designs, all complemented with a signature white vintage finish. As long as you’ve got furniture or decorative pieces to match, you can’t go wrong when choosing to decorate your wall with a classic white vintage mirror.

Dramatic, Distressed Finishes

What is it about this worn out look that people find so attractive? We’ll tell you what it is – the ‘dramatic’ effect, of course! It’s almost as if there’s an untold story behind a distressed mirror that draws your attention to it and adds a bit of mystery to the room. Speaking generally, aged antiques are treasured possessions and more valuable than newly manufactured antique pieces. In many cases, the former is an heirloom passed down from generation to generation, however, in terms of design, both new and old mirrors with distressed finishes offer a unique and expressive visual. 

They can either feature distressed glass, or a worn finish to the frame; some designs offer both. The biggest perk of distressed mirrors is that they don’t discriminate against any one style; in other words, there are various types of mirrors featuring distressed finishes such as Moroccan mirrors, Bohemian mirrors, modern mirrors, rustic mirrors, and of course, classic antique-style mirrors. Some decorative distressed pieces also come in the form mirrored paneling which are available in a plethora of patterns and designs.

The Fanciful French Connection

French-style interior décor is known for its sophistication and class. Along with these two design qualities, antique French mirrors possess an extravagant flair for intricate detailing and elegant, floral motifs. With crested-arch tops and carved streamers adorning the frame, these decorative pieces are often gilded while many others can be found in silver, white, and rose gold finishes. 

The unique moulding around French mirrors give them a distinctive look which is best suited for traditional and French country homes. Of course, less elaborate designs can be matched with existing vintage décor in other home interior styles. Perhaps, the diversity in mirror designs within the category is one of the reasons why French-style mirrors are making a major comeback in the world of interior decorating!

 

So, the short answer to the question “are old-fashioned mirrors making a comeback?” can be limited to a simple ‘yes’, but it’s the information and tips shared above that will help you choose the right antique mirror for your unique home interior!

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