26+ Different Types Of Dressers: Materials & Styles (Buying Guide)
A dresser can be both a functional and decorative piece in your bedroom, providing ample storage for organization purposes. With hundreds of options to choose from, narrowing down the types can be overwhelming. This post aims to guide you through the various sizes, shapes, and functions of dressers, helping you find the perfect one for your space. Dressers come in a range of styles, materials, and sizes, each serving a specific purpose.
From the traditional bachelor’s chest to modern media chests, there are countless options to suit your needs. When it comes to choosing the right dresser, consider factors such as size, purpose, quality, added features, and cost. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a practical storage solution, this post will walk you through the various types of dressers, including materials like leather, metal, and wood, and styles ranging from antique to modern.
We’ll also cover essential considerations when buying a dresser, such as size, purpose, quality, added features, and cost. In addition, we’ll explore where to buy a dresser, answer frequently asked questions, and provide valuable insights for those looking to purchase or use dressers.
What is a dresser?
Before delving deeper, it’s essential to understand the fundamental nature of a dresser. From a technical standpoint, a dresser is a type of furniture characterized by its compact width and vertical orientation, typically featuring six or more drawers arranged in two parallel columns. This description often leads to confusion with chest of drawers, which, although sharing similarities, differ in their proportions – tall and narrow – and design.
Types of dressers
When selecting a dresser, it’s essential to start by considering the type. This decision has far-reaching implications, influencing not only your personal needs and preferences but also the scale and size of the dresser itself. Moreover, the type of dresser you choose plays a significant role in maintaining harmony within the room’s interior design.
Bachelor’s chest
Homesquare offers a unique storage solution in the form of its tall chest of drawers, which boasts an impressive feature – a spacious compartment on one side perfect for hanging suits, jackets, and other garments. A key aspect of this design is the inclusion of built-in hanging rods and shelves, providing ample space for storing and organizing your wardrobe. In comparison to the combo dresser, this taller and wider design stands out as a stylish and practical option.
Combo dresser
Amazon offers a unique dresser that echoes traditional designs in terms of aesthetics, but deviates from standard norms by featuring drawers positioned centrally or at both ends, each with varying sizes. The true showstopper, however, lies in its wardrobe doors, which provide ample space for hanging clothing. Supplementing these doors are shelves situated beneath, ideal for storing bags, shoes, and additional garments.
For those seeking a one-stop dresser solution, this versatile piece is an excellent choice.
Double dresser
When shopping for a dresser, Target offers an excellent option with their wide dresser featuring two columns of spacious drawers. This design provides ample storage space, making it ideal for master bedrooms or shared spaces. However, due to its larger size and depth, this dresser may not be the best fit for medium-sized rooms or compact areas, where its proportions could overwhelm the space.
Dresser and change table
Amazon offers a unique and practical solution for parents’ needs in the nursery with their baby dresser. This innovative piece of furniture is designed specifically for the bedroom, boasting a built-in changing table that allows for easy midnight feedings and diaper changes. The top surface features safety rails to prevent little ones from rolling off, while the rows of drawers provide ample storage space for all the essentials, from diapers to onesies.
Gentleman’s chest
This sleek and visually stunning dresser is a perfect addition to any room, thanks to its unique vertical configuration. Its compact design makes it ideal for small spaces or even hotel rooms, where every inch counts. The combination of drawers on one side and a wardrobe door on the other provides ample storage space without sacrificing style. For an added touch of modernity, many versions come equipped with built-in mirrors, making it perfect for contemporary bedrooms.
Lingerie chest
Homesquare offers a range of dresser options that cater to specific needs, including shallow dressers designed for organizing smaller and lighter clothing items like lingerie, undergarments, handkerchiefs, bathing suits, and socks. These compact dressers are also ideal for storing jewelry, makeup, and skin care products, while still maintaining the traditional rows of drawers on each side. The lining can be either horizontal or vertical, depending on the brand and personal preference.
This type of dresser is commonly referred to as a Semainier.
Media chest
On Amazon, shoppers can find a type of furniture that blurs the lines between a traditional chest and a dresser – the media chest. Its design includes an open top shelf, spacious enough to hold a cable box at a comfortable viewing height for TV enthusiasts. The drawers themselves are shallower than typical dressers, making them ideal for storing small items like remote controls, gaming consoles, and game discs.
As such, media chests often find their way into game rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms, providing ample storage for everyday essentials.
Raised bed and dresser
Amazon’s versatile storage solutions have become an integral part of modern loft bed designs. These practical additions can be positioned at the center or along the sides, maximizing space efficiency. A popular choice among parents and teenagers alike, this type of dresser features shallow drawers perfect for storing lighter items such as toys, school supplies, and other knick-knacks.
Standard horizontal dresser
Pottery Barn’s dresser design draws inspiration from traditional chests, typically characterized by two to three rows of drawers arranged horizontally along a long, narrow frame. This classic design often includes additional smaller drawers situated on top, serving as a convenient display space and potential TV stand. Older models may also incorporate built-in mirrors, enhancing the overall functionality of the piece.
Standard vertical dresser
When it comes to small bedroom solutions, Target’s compact chests are an ideal choice. Unlike the horizontal chest, these designs are more streamlined and can seamlessly fit into smaller spaces. Characterized by their tall and narrow profiles with shallow drawers, they’re perfect for maximizing storage without sacrificing floor space.
While they may not be designed as standalone pieces, they often complement other space-saving storage furniture, such as chests and nightstands, to create a harmonious and functional bedroom setup.
Highboy
Amazon shoppers have likely encountered the term ‘highboy’ while browsing for stylish storage solutions. This style of furniture refers to a tall chest of drawers or a chest-on-chest stand that rose to popularity in France during the 1600s. A notable distinction from its counterpart, the tall boy, is that highboys do not come equipped with wardrobe doors. Interestingly, both ‘tall boy’ and ‘highboy’ have become interchangeable terms in modern furniture terminology.
Lowboy
This vintage-inspired dresser boasts a classic design, characterized by a sturdy frame supported by four to six slender legs. The piece typically features two to three drawers that span horizontally across its surface, evoking a sense of understated elegance reminiscent of traditional furniture styles.
Bombe dresser
The bombe dresser’s distinctive style is rooted in its French heritage, with ‘bombe’ translating to ‘bulging out’. This outward bulge is characterized by a sideways curvature and a curved base. This unique aesthetic gained popularity across 18th century Europe, offering a glimpse into the era’s fashion trends.
Dresser materials
When selecting a dresser, the material used is crucial in maintaining harmony with the room’s design theme. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the most common materials available, each offering distinct characteristics that can impact the final appearance.
Leather
When it comes to upgrading the aesthetic of your bedroom, Amazon offers a wide range of options for transforming your dresser into a luxurious focal point. While leather may not be the primary material used for dressers due to their traditional framing with wood or metal, it can add a touch of opulence and sophistication when chosen as the dominant material for a vintage, retro, or luxe-inspired interior design.
The unique textures and patterns that leather provides, such as pleated, tufted, and plain, can elevate the overall look and feel of your bedroom. However, it’s essential to consider the added maintenance required to keep leather dressers looking their best.
Metal
When shopping on Amazon for a dresser, you may not immediately think of metal as a viable option. However, despite being less prevalent than wood, metal dressers still offer an impressive range of designs and styles. You can opt for all-metal constructions or hybrid models that combine metal with other materials like wood or glass to create unique, eclectic, and industrial-inspired pieces.
Metal’s lightweight nature, durability, and workability make it a prime material for dresser design, offering a stylish and practical solution for any bedroom.
Mirrored glass
When shopping on Horchow, it’s interesting to note that mirrored glass pieces effortlessly blend classic and modern styles, much like a well-crafted leather piece. This aesthetic fusion is further enhanced by the reflective properties of the glass, which can create an illusion of increased space within the room. However, these sleek designs may not be the most suitable choice for children’s bedrooms due to their tendency towards edged and sharp lines, which could pose a risk to young ones.
Additionally, the material itself is more prone to cracking and breaking, making it essential to exercise caution when handling such pieces.
Wicker
Opting for a relaxed, tropical vibe? Wicker dressers are an excellent choice to achieve that laid-back ambiance. These stylish pieces are crafted from woven natural fibers or synthetic materials, offering a unique blend of durability and versatility. One of the standout features is their lightweight construction, making them easy to move around. Furthermore, wicker dressers are remarkably resistant to stains and moisture, ensuring they remain looking fresh for years to come.
Additionally, many models feature wooden frames, adding a touch of warmth and elegance to the overall design.
Wood
Amazon’s vast inventory allows for an array of dresser configurations to suit various design schemes. For traditional, rustic, or modern designs, wood remains a popular choice, particularly solid wood or hardwood. While upkeep may require a bit more effort, the timeless appeal of wooden dressers ensures they never fall out of favor.
Dresser styles
When selecting a dresser, it’s crucial to consider not only its functionality but also its visual appeal. The style of the dresser plays a significant role in shaping the overall ambiance of a room. In addition to serving a practical purpose, dressers are often a design focal point that can greatly impact the aesthetic of a space. For this reason, understanding the various styles available can help you make an informed decision. Some popular dresser styles include…
Antique
Amazon shoppers, take note! The vintage allure of antique dressers lies in their exquisite craftsmanship, often featuring rich wood tones, supple leather accents, and even luxurious marble surfaces. This opulent style can evoke a sense of old-world charm, making them ideal heirloom pieces for your home. Whether you stumble upon one at a fancy auction, a thrift shop find, or a prized collector’s item, antique dressers are truly unique treasures.
Interestingly, any dresser dating back to the 20th century or earlier is considered an antique, offering a wide range of styles and designs to suit every taste.
Contemporary
When it comes to furnishing your home, incorporating modern elements can elevate the overall aesthetic. Contemporary dressers stand out for their emphasis on clean lines and distinctive details. These pieces often feature bold colors and personalized accents, creating a one-of-a-kind look that perfectly complements updated interior design.
Distressed
Looking for a unique and affordable dresser option? Consider shopping on Amazon for distressed dressers that exude a vintage charm. These pieces are designed to resemble worn-out furniture, making them a perfect fit for rustic or cottage-style rooms. If you’re seeking an alternative to antique dressers or have a preference for wood in a different style, these distressed dressers can be a great option.
With their rugged appearance and affordable prices, they’re an excellent choice for those on a budget who still want to add a touch of character to their home.
Modern
In today’s interior design landscape, modern dressers are often the go-to choice for contemporary and industrial spaces due to their sleek, minimalist aesthetic and clean lines. One of the key benefits of these dressers is their space-saving design, which incorporates ergonomic drawer placements that make them particularly well-suited for studio apartments and lofts.
When it comes to appearance, modern dressers offer a range of options, including wood veneer, lacquer, and painted finishes, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their unique decor.
Rustic
This particular dresser style boasts an impressive versatility, effortlessly complementing various interior designs, including farmhouse, without being limited to a specific aesthetic. Its wooden construction often features a natural finish, achieved through staining, varnishing, or painting, which preserves its organic look. Additionally, metal handles are commonly incorporated for a modern twist.
As with traditional and shabby chic styles, rustic’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to endure the test of time, remaining a popular choice for homeowners seeking a classic yet enduring design.
Shabby chic
Amazon shopping excursions often lead us to discover unique treasures that exude a sense of cozy intimacy, reminiscent of the iconic cottage style. This warm and inviting aesthetic is characterized by its use of clean monochromatic tones and rustic accents, all blending seamlessly together in harmony.
When it comes to achieving the semi-distressed look of shabby chic dressers, artisans typically employ a clever technique – they gently sand the edges, creating a soft, worn-in texture that adds to the overall charm. With materials such as wood, veneer, and laminate at their disposal, these beautiful pieces are crafted with care and attention to detail, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind creation that’s sure to delight the senses.
Traditional
One of the greatest advantages of this piece is its timeless appeal. It effortlessly blends with a wide range of interior design styles, ensuring that even traditional designs will remain stylish for years to come. This cost-effectiveness is complemented by the ease of remodeling it, making it a practical choice compared to more niche dresser styles.
Factors to consider when buying a dresser
When selecting a dresser, it’s not just about the type, material, or style. Other crucial aspects come into play. While these factors are important, there are additional elements to consider when making your purchase decision. Keep in mind that the following pointers will help you make an informed choice and ensure you find the perfect dresser for your needs.
#1. Size
When selecting a dresser, it’s crucial to consider the proportions in relation to the room’s size. Begin by measuring the designated area where the dresser will reside. This calculation is vital, as you want to ensure a comfortable fit that leaves sufficient clearance – ideally 2-5 inches – for effortless cleaning and repositioning purposes.
#2. Purpose
When selecting a dresser, it’s crucial to consider the purpose it will serve in your space. Before making a purchase, take stock of the items that need storing. If you’re looking to keep lightweight items such as linens or accessories, a compact dresser with shallow drawers may be sufficient. On the other hand, if you plan to store hanging clothes, bags, and shoes, a dresser with wardrobe doors would be a more practical choice, providing easy access and ample storage for your essentials.
#3. Quality
While it’s true that the quality of a dresser can be subjective, there are still many reliable brands and stores to consider when making a purchase. The good news is that reputable retailers wouldn’t compromise their reputation by selling subpar products. Instead, they focus on offering a range of high-quality options that meet customer expectations.
To ensure you find the perfect dresser for your needs, it’s always a good idea to do some research and explore different brands and stores before making a final decision.
#4. Added features
Elevate the functionality and style of your dressers by incorporating innovative features. Consider installing ergonomic handles, remote-controlled opening mechanisms, voice recognition setup capabilities, advanced lighting systems, and other cutting-edge enhancements. If you’re looking to make a statement with your dresser design or simply want to future-proof its longevity, investing in added features can be a worthwhile consideration.
#5. Cost
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of dressers, the initial expenditure is likely to be the most decisive factor. On average, high-quality dressers can range from $100 to several hundreds of dollars. Factors such as the number of drawers required, customisation, and material choice (e.g., solid wood) can significantly impact the final price tag. As a result, it’s essential to budget at least a few hundred dollars to acquire a suitable dresser for your bedroom.
Where to buy a dresser?
When it comes to shopping for a dresser, you’re likely to find them in abundance at major retailers both online and offline. While it’s possible to browse through options on e-commerce platforms, there are certain benefits to physically visiting stores. The subtle differences in size, material, and style can make all the difference in finding the perfect piece that suits your bedroom’s unique aesthetic.
If you’re looking for a wide range of dresser styles at varying price points, here’s a comprehensive list of stores where you can start your search:* IKEA* Wayfair* Target* Home Depot* Walmart* Overstock* Amazon* Bed, Bath and Beyond* Goods Home Furnishing* Lowe’s* Thos Moser* Kohls* Crate and Barrel* Macy’s* Southshore* eBay
FAQs
What are the tall skinny dressers called?
Tallboys, also known as vertical dressers, stand out for their striking features: an elevated stature and slender profile. Their design is characterized by rows of uniformly sized and deep drawers, offering a versatile storage solution for various types of items across multiple categories. With their tall and narrow form, they provide ample space to organize and keep track of diverse belongings.
How tall is a tall boy?
While traditional dressers typically stand at around 4-5 feet tall, the average height of a tall boy is significantly taller, measuring approximately 9 feet in height. This added stature can be attributed to the common design feature of stacking two dressers on top of each other. Tall boys have become a staple of interior design, offering a perfect blend of old-world opulence and modern charm.
When placed in high-ceilinged rooms, their sleek and clean lines help to create a sense of grandeur and sophistication.
What’s the difference between a bureau and a dresser?
The distinction between a bureau and dresser lies not in their design or function, but rather in the room they inhabit. Dressers are a staple in bedrooms, serving as a storage solution and fashion statement. In contrast, bureaus typically take up residence in home offices, study rooms, or libraries, where their practicality shines.
While both pieces of furniture serve to store and organize items, bureaus often boast a larger, more functional tabletop that can double as a desk, making them an ideal choice for those who work from home or need a dedicated workspace.
Is there a difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers?
The concept of using ‘chest of drawers’ and ‘dresser’ interchangeably has become widespread due to the recognition that the chest of drawers is the precursor to modern dressers. The evolution of this terminology can be traced back to the mid-17th century, when a ‘chest of drawers’ referred to a piece of furniture with multiple drawers at its base. By the late 17th century, the term had shifted to simply refer to ‘drawers’.
It wasn’t until the early 19th century that the phrase was officially replaced by ‘dresser’, marking a significant milestone in the development of this type of furniture.
What is the average cost of a dresser?
The price range for drawers can vary significantly depending on several factors. A standard drawer typically costs anywhere from $120 to upwards of that amount. However, when it comes to home contracting projects where dressers are incorporated into the finishing phase, the average cost tends to increase to around $240 or more.
Can you use a sideboard as a dresser?
When envisioning a dresser with a sideboard, think about incorporating credenzas in the dining hall or kitchen. This design can be both functional and stylish, as shelving adds storage capacity. However, to avoid visual overload, consider the space constraints carefully so that the overall aesthetic remains harmonious.
Are there alternatives to dressers?
When space concerns, varying item types, or other factors prompt you to reconsider traditional dressers, know that there are compelling alternatives to explore. Beyond the realm of conventional dressers, consider the following options: armoires, bed frames with integrated drawers, coat trees, cubicle organizers, garment racks, hanging closets and shelving systems, lockers, stackable cabinets, step cabinets, trunks and chests, or overbed storage solutions.
Each presents a viable alternative for addressing your specific needs.
When is the best time to buy dressers?
When it comes to purchasing a dresser, timing is everything. According to Consumer Reports, the peak sales period for these pieces of furniture falls within two specific timeframes: late summer (August and September) and early winter (January and February). During these periods, retailers often clear out old stock to make room for new inventory, resulting in significant discounts of 45-70% on previously owned dressers.
This buying window is an excellent opportunity for shoppers to snag a high-quality dresser at a fraction of its original price.
What is the standard dresser size?
Standard dressers typically boast a modest configuration of six to ten drawers, which translates to a consistent size profile of 26 to 44 inches in height, 36 to 60 inches in width, and 16 to 20 inches in depth. While customized versions may deviate slightly from these parameters, they generally adhere to this familiar framework, ensuring a sense of consistency and cohesion.
What is the standard dresser drawer size?
When it comes to determining the ideal dresser drawer size, a one-size-fits-all answer isn’t entirely accurate. Some dressers may offer smaller accent drawers designed specifically for storing lightweight items like jewelry or accessories. However, when considering standard dresser drawer sizes, a minimum width of at least 36 inches is generally recommended.
What is the size of small dressers?
When selecting a dresser, it’s crucial to consider the minimum recommended size of 42 inches. This measurement takes into account standard drawer widths of approximately 36 inches. If your available space cannot accommodate a dresser of this size, exploring alternative space-saving solutions might be the most practical choice.
How much clearance should a dresser have?
When it comes to clearing a path around your dresser, the goal is to create a functional and comfortable space. To achieve this, consider allocating at least three feet of walking room from the doorway and relative to other bedroom furniture pieces. Within that designated area, aim for a minimum clearance of six inches to one foot to ensure easy movement and convenient access.
In addition, it’s recommended to maintain a two-foot buffer in front of the dresser to provide ample space for fully opening drawers (and wardrobe doors if applicable), allowing you to easily store and retrieve your belongings.
Conclusion
When it comes to furnishing the home, particularly the bedroom, having the right type of dresser can make all the difference. With so many options available, selecting the perfect one can be a challenge, but one that’s definitely worth taking on. Factors such as space constraints, material preferences, and personal style all play a role in determining which dresser is most suitable.
Fortunately, dressers are widely available at major retailers and online, making it easy to find one that fits your needs.
