
With so many types of dressers to consider for your home — like horizontal, combo, vertical, and mirrored — there’s definitely something that will fit your needs and style.
While it’s primarily for storing clothes and essentials, a dresser can also double as a stylish accent that brings both function and flair to your bedroom. For example, my grandma loves her bombe dresser and says it’s the “red lipstick” of furniture (and I’ll tell you why in a bit).
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of dressers and break down their best uses and potential drawbacks.
Whether you need a statement piece or a simple storage solution, this guide has you covered.

Classic and Versatile Dressers

These dressers are your typical go-to pieces, designed to fit seamlessly into various spaces while providing ample storage.
1. Horizontal Dresser: Spacious and Practical

If you’re looking for a dresser with plenty of surface area, a horizontal or standard dresser is the way to go. With two or three rows of drawers, this piece gives you room to store clothes and even display your favorite decor. Whether it’s a mirror, some books, or a lovely plant, you’ll have a perfect spot for it all.
Best for: Bedrooms where you want a multifunctional piece that combines storage with style. | Cons: It can take up a good amount of wall space and might feel a bit bulky in smaller rooms. |
2. Double Dresser: For Shared Storage

If you are sharing a space with someone, a double dresser is an excellent choice. With its double columns of wide drawers, it provides ample room for both of your belongings. It looks great topped with a mirror, adding a touch of elegance to your shared retreat.
Best for: Couples or anyone with a large wardrobe who needs extra storage. | Cons: Be cautious if you have a small room as it can easily overwhelm the space. |
3. Combo Dresser: Multifunctional Storage

Need a dresser that can handle more than just clothes? A combo dresser is your answer. This versatile piece usually combines traditional dresser drawers with cabinets or wardrobe spaces. It’s perfect for organizing everything from clothes to scarves and shoes.
Best for: Those who have a mix of items to store, making organizing a breeze. | Cons: It offers plenty of storage, but reaching items at the back can be a hassle, and the layout may take up more space. |
Space-Saving Dressers

Got limited space? Space-saving dressers make the most of vertical storage, so you can keep your things organized without taking up too much room.
4. Vertical Dresser: Tall and Slim

When floor space is limited, a vertical dresser can be your best friend. Its tall and narrow design allows for lots of storage without taking up too much room. Just make sure you can reach those higher drawers.
Best for: Small bedrooms where you still want plenty of storage. | Cons: Depending on your height, those upper drawers might be a bit tricky to access. |
5. Highboy Dresser: Stylish and Space-saving

A highboy dresser is a type of vertical dresser that gives you the best of both worlds: a stylish, traditional piece that saves floor space. While traditional highboys feature two stacked chests with a curved or swan-necked top and S-shaped feet, some modern versions offer alternative styles that still save space and offer plenty of storage without feeling crowded.
Best for: Bedrooms where you want a stylish, antique piece that maximizes vertical storage. | Cons: Just ensure it’s properly secured, as it can feel a bit top-heavy. It can also be expensive due to its size and craftsmanship. |
6. Lingerie Dresser: Slim and Specialized

For storing delicate items, a lingerie dresser is perfect. With several small drawers — traditionally seven drawers — stacked vertically, it keeps everything from socks to accessories neatly tucked away.
Best for: Those looking to organize accessories or smaller clothing pieces in a compact way. | Cons: Keep in mind that it’s not the best for larger clothing items. |
7. Lowboy Dresser: Classic and Compact

If you love vintage charm, a lowboy dresser might just be your favorite. Traditionally used as dressing tables, they are often designed with four or six legs and two or three drawers, resembling the lower half of a highboy. They are perfect for smaller rooms and can add a touch of nostalgia.
Best for: Small bedrooms or as a charming accent piece in your decor. | Cons: Its compact size means it won’t hold much, so consider your storage needs. |
Dressers Designed For Specific Needs

These dressers are built to meet unique storage needs, making them perfect for specific uses beyond just clothing.
8. Gentleman’s Chest: Dual Storage

A gentleman’s chest is a fantastic option if you want to keep both folded and hanging clothes organized. With drawers on one side and hanging space on the other, this piece is perfect for those who want everything in one stylish package.
Best for: Bedrooms where closet space is limited, provided there’s enough floor space to accommodate it. | Cons: It can take up quite a bit of floor space, so make sure you have enough room for it. |
9. Nursery Dresser: Compact and Multi-purpose

If you’re setting up a nursery, a nursery dresser is essential. These typically feature a changing pad or table on top and extra storage for baby essentials like clothes and diapers. Some even come with tiered baskets for added convenience.
Best for: Nurseries and children’s rooms that need multifunctional storage. | Cons: Just remember, they have a limited lifespan as your baby grows. |
10. Dresser Desk: Functional and Stylish

Why choose between a dresser and a desk when you can have both? A dresser and desk combination, also called a media dresser, provides storage and a workspace in one. This option is perfect for those who want to save space and look stylish at the same time.
Best for: Bedrooms or home offices that require both storage and workspace. | Cons: The desk component might take away from overall storage space. |
11. Built-in Dresser: Integrated Style

For a seamless look in your bedroom, consider a built-in dresser. This option can be designed to match your room’s architecture, making it feel like a natural part of your home. Built-in dressers offer plenty of storage and can be customized to fit your space perfectly.
Best for: Those looking to maximize space and create a cohesive look in their bedroom. | Cons: They can be more expensive due to the custom nature and installation involved. |
Dressers as Statement Pieces

These dressers do more than just hold clothes — they also add a unique touch to your decor, serving as beautiful focal points in your home.
12. Bombe Dresser: Ornate and Elegant (My Grandma’s Pick)

Looking for something that stands out? A bombe dresser, with its curved design and intricate details, can be a stunning addition to your living space. It’s perfect as a statement piece that can even function as an entry table or a bar station.
The bombe dresser is my grandma’s favorite. She says it’s the “red lipstick” of furniture — bold, timeless, and guaranteed to turn heads. Back when she lived alone (before moving in with my aunt), she had one proudly displayed in the living room. She loves to joke that guests spent more time admiring her dresser than enjoying the tea or coffee she served them.
Best for: Formal living spaces or larger rooms where you want to make a statement. | Cons: Just note that it can be bulky, so it might not fit in smaller areas. |
13. Mirrored Dresser: Modern Elegance

If you want to brighten up your room, a mirrored dresser can do just that. Reflecting light and creating a sense of spaciousness, these dressers add a touch of glamor and sophistication to your decor.
Best for: Bedrooms or spaces that need a boost of elegance and brightness. | Cons: They can show fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular cleaning. |
14. Rustic Dresser: Farmhouse Charm

For a cozy, inviting feel, consider a rustic dresser. With its rough-hewn wood and weathered finish, this dresser adds warmth and character to any room, making it a perfect fit for a farmhouse-style home.
Best for: Spaces that need a touch of rustic charm. | Cons: It may not suit more modern or minimalist aesthetics. |
15. Minimalist Dresser: Aesthetic and Clean

If you prefer a clutter-free but aesthetic environment, a minimalist or white dresser will help you achieve that. With its clean lines and monochromatic finishes, it creates a serene atmosphere in your bedroom.
Best for: Scandinavian-inspired interiors or anyone looking to embrace simplicity. | Cons: It may feel a bit too plain for those who like bold decorative pieces. |
Dressers vs. Chests of Drawers
When it comes to storing your clothes, you might wonder about the difference between a dresser and a chest of drawers. Dressers are wider and provide space for decor or mirrors, while chests of drawers are taller and compact, perfect for smaller rooms.
Time to Pick Your Dresser Match
From timeless pieces like horizontal and vertical dressers to eye-catching designs like mirrored and bombe styles, there’s a dresser for every need and personality. Maybe you’re after a practical and spacious dresser to organize your wardrobe or something sleek to add a pop of style to your room — whatever it is, there’s a match waiting for you.
We’ve explored everything from space-saving designs to multifunctional and bold statement pieces, making it easier to find the one. After all, the perfect dresser isn’t just storage; it’s also a reflection of your style. So, which one will it be?
Main Image Credit: Aris Berroya