Choosing a good new mirror

A wall mirror can be a serious asset when you're decorating. Because it reflects light, it helps brighten and widen even the smallest and darkest of rooms to make them more comfortable and inviting. A wall mirror can also add a decorative look to your room, and it makes an ideal focal point for your space. The key is choosing the right mirror for your room and the look that you want to create.

The first decision to make when you're choosing a wall mirror is how large it should be. The size of the mirror should be influenced by a couple of factors – the size of the wall that you're placing it on and how big an impact you want the mirror to make in your room. If you're hanging the mirror on a large wall in your living room, dining room or bedroom and you want to make a bold statement, opt for an extra large mirror, measuring between 25 and 31 inches on each side. If you're using the mirror as an accent on a small wall near your entryway, you may need one as small as 10 inches on each side. Measure your wall so you know how much space you have to work with and determine how much of it you want the mirror to fill.

While square and rectangular options are usually the most common, you can find wall mirrors in a variety of shapes. A square or rectangular mirror offers the most traditional look, but choosing a mirror in an unusual shape can bring attention to a wall even if the mirror is small or lacks a decorative frame. For a simple but striking look, opt for a circular or oval wall mirror. Funky triangle- and diamond-shaped mirrors can add a quirky touch to a room. If you want to make a big design statement, however, go with a bold starburst-shaped mirror that is sure to draw the eye.

Some wall mirrors don't have frames – it's their size or shape that gives them a strong presence in your room. When you're shopping for a mirror, however, you can also opt for a style with a frame that packs a decorative punch all its own. Choose a simple wooden, metal or plastic frame for a sleek, streamlined look. For a more formal, dramatic look, seek out a mirror with an ornate, gilded frame to serve as a strong focal point for your room. You can also find wall mirrors with mosaic-style frames that feature bits of tile for a fun, eye-catching look.

If you decide on a mirror with a decorative mirror frame, choose an option in a color that works with the rest of the room's decor. A basic black, white or wood tone frame can coordinate with virtually any decorating scheme. Gilded metals like gold or silver add a posh look that fits formal or modern decor well. If you're choosing a wall mirror with a colored frame, think about how the frame's color plays against your wall shade and aim to create a contrast that draws attention to the mirror. You can simply choose a frame in a color that's much darker or lighter than the wall, or opt for a colored frame with a different undertone than the wall shade to create a natural contrast.