How To Decorate The Top of a Dresser

A dresser is a practical storage solution and an integral design element in a bedroom. Styling the top of your dresser with intention can help with the room’s look, feel, and functionality.

This post is all about how to style a bedroom dresser top!

I’ll go through 10 great ways to style your dresser. You don’t have to implement every idea; sometimes less is more. Choose a few ideas that work best for your space!

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Incorporate a Mirror or Artwork

Adding a mirror or artwork above your dresser is an easy way to improve the whole look of the room.

A mirror or wall art piece is the perfect base for the rest of your dresser decor, so it’s often the first thing I think about when decorating a dresser or any cabinet/accent table.

Mirrors can make your space feel bigger and brighter. I’ve always loved mirrors with unique frames because they’re like functional art pieces.

On the other hand, a well-chosen art print, or collection of prints, can bring the whole room’s color palette together. Whether you prefer a sleek modern or a vintage-inspired painting, this choice can be a beautiful way to anchor your dresser decor.

This canvas wall art is a great choice for relaxed, coastal bedroom designs because it combines blue, cream, and wood tones.

Utilize Varying Heights

When styling your dresser, think about creating a little skyline of decor using objects of varying heights.

A tall lamp, a medium-sized vase, and a small decorative box or candle can make a big difference.

The key is to create a balance that keeps your eye moving across the surface without feeling chaotic. I like starting with a taller item, like a statement lamp, and working my way down to smaller accents that complement it.

A quick trick to get varying heights is to place some of your decor pieces on top of a stack of decorative books.

This set of ceramic vases is a great example. There’s a small, tall, short, and medium-sized vase that you can display together or individually throughout the dresser top.

Curate a Collection

If you love collecting things, why not showcase them on your dresser? Grouping similar items creates a cohesive look, whether it’s a set of candles, vintage perfume bottles, or small sculptures.

I’ve found that sticking to a theme or color palette keeps it from looking too busy. This is also a great way to show off your personality and make the space yours.

This set of coastal table sculptures is a nice example for anyone who loves the ocean.

Incorporate Ambient Lighting

Adding soft lighting to your dresser can make your bedroom feel like a retreat.

A small lamp or a cluster of candles creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.

I personally love a lamp with a soft glow or candles that smell amazing—it’s such a simple way to make the room feel cozier.

Add Greenery or Florals

Something about a bit of greenery or fresh flowers instantly brightens up a space.

Adding natural elements makes your dresser feel alive and welcoming, whether it’s a leafy plant or a vase of seasonal flowers.

If you’re like me and don’t always have time for upkeep, faux plants are a great alternative that still looks amazing.

I recently came across this bouquet of faux blossoms, and it’s been one of my favorites. It has a bit of subtle color mixed with neutrals.

Organize with Functional Decor

Keeping your dresser organized doesn’t have to be boring. Using trays, boxes, or bowls to group smaller items keeps everything tidy and looks polished.

I love using a pretty tray, like the one below, for my small jewelry and perfume—it’s practical but also makes those everyday items feel special.

Adopt a Minimalist Approach

Sometimes, less really is more. A few carefully chosen items—like a framed photo, a small plant, and a candle—can make your dresser calm and uncluttered.

When I pare back my decor, I’ve found that the space feels more intentional and serene, which is exactly what I want in a bedroom.

This simple, potted lavender plant paired in front of a decorative mirror may be all your dresser top needs.

Introduce Seasonal Elements

Swapping out your dresser decor with the seasons is a fun way to keep things fresh.

Think pumpkins in the fall, greenery in the winter, or flowers in the spring.

I like to keep it simple with just one or two seasonal pieces—it’s enough to make the space feel festive without being overwhelming.

This set of decorative tabletop trees is perfect for a seasonal dresser top and won’t make the space feel too cluttered. You can also use one or two for nightstand table decor.

Emphasize a Statement Piece

If you have one decor item you love, let it take center stage on your dresser.

A bold sculpture, an oversized candle, or even a unique lamp can be the star of the show. Surrounding a statement piece with simpler items makes it stand out even more.

This black and white couple statue is a great example of a bold decor piece you can use, especially in monochromatic bedroom designs.

Incorporate Decorative Trays

Decorative trays are practical and add style to your dresser.

They’re perfect for grouping items like perfume bottles, jewelry, or candles. I love how a tray can make even the smallest collection of items look intentional and put together. Plus, it makes cleaning much easier—just lift the tray and go!

Conclusion

Your dresser’s top surface is an opportunity to add style to your bedroom.

Whether your preference leans minimalist or layered, these ideas can guide you in crafting a beautifully styled dresser that improves your bedroom’s overall atmosphere.

Let’s take the first step towards a beautifully styled dresser and start picking out a dresser mirror! Head over to my post about 29 Beautiful Dresser Mirror Ideas for Your Home.