Short Answer: The main difference between a wardrobe and a dresser is that a wardrobe is generally bigger featuring drawers and an area to hang things, while the dresser only comes with drawers.
A wardrobe is ideal for storing larger items such as gowns, dresses, and formal suits, while the dresser is better suited for smaller clothes, makeup, jewellery, accessories, and personal items.
Furthermore, a wardrobe is a preferable option for spacious rooms, as it provides the flexibility to design and create your dream closet. Various wardrobe designs are available to maximise storage and functionality.
However, dressers are more versatile compared to a wardrobe. They can be placed in various locations based on their intended purpose or function. This versatility makes dressers quite appealing, which is one of the reasons we appreciate them.
Therefore, both dressers and wardrobes are excellent closet solutions, but you should carefully consider a few factors to determine the most practical choice for your specific needs.
What is a wardrobe?
Nizza sliding wardrobe
The ideal wardrobe measurement varies depending on the type of wardrobe and your storage needs.
As example, we decided to go for the Marsylia sliding wardrobe with a depth measurement of 66 cm, width of 208 cm, and height of 220 cm. Also, it comes with two adjustable hanging rails for large clothing which we really need for our formal suits and gowns!
The design of wardrobes has undergone significant evolution since the 17th century, and even today, continuous modifications and innovations are being made. Creating a wardrobe that aligns with specific size, dimensions, and placement requirements necessitates exceptional fashion and expertise.
How to Choose a Wardrobe
I have put together these tips on how to choose the best wardrobe type:
- Consider what kind of storage space you need
- Design your wardrobe with functionality in mind
- Go big, if possible!
- Go for a style that suits your bedroom interior
- Choose the best material for your wardrobe
What is a dresser?
The use of the term “dresser” has evolved over time. Initially, a dresser was a piece of furniture used in the dining rooms of the wealthy. Nowadays, it’s typically a piece of bedroom furniture designed for storing clothing.
A typical bedroom dresser includes drawers for organizing small clothing and personal items. It comes in various styles to suit its intended purpose and functionality.
A standard dresser typically has six to nine drawers and is approximately waist-high. However, the dimensions may vary based on your preferences and what fits best in your bedroom.
While dressers are typically found in bedrooms, they can be placed anywhere storage is needed.
In our guest room, which has a compact floor area of 12 square meters, we opted for a double dresser with six drawers due to the room’s limited size. This choice proved to be practical.
Despite its somewhat bulkier appearance, we appreciate the fact that the dresser’s surface area can easily accommodate a small television if a mirror is not required (although we do prefer having a small vanity mirror). A double dresser is an excellent choice for more spacious rooms, unlike our guest room, which is on the smaller side.
How to Choose the Perfect Dresser
Here are ways to choose the perfect dresser in terms of depth, width, and height.
Berlin with 8 drawers
First, decide on the dresser’s placement. We chose to position the dresser across from the bed to create more space on both sides and for added convenience.
Next, measure the distance between the wall and the nearest piece of furniture where your dresser will be situated. Subtract 36 inches from this measurement to determine the correct depth for the dresser. This will allow ample space for the drawers to open and close smoothly.
Additionally, measure the wall area where you intend to place the dresser to determine its width. Dressers should have enough space to open their drawers without hitting nearby closet or bedroom doors.
Consider the appropriate height for your dresser as well, whether it’s positioned under a window or against a wall with a mirror or television above it.
Lastly, take your storage needs into account. Once you’ve determined the type of dresser that suits your requirements, you can explore the features and styles that best complement your bedroom.
Final Say
Despite their differences, wardrobes and dressers have many things in common. These two pieces of furniture are designed to provide households with storage functionality.
They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns. Wardrobes can be built-in into walls or made-shift, but dressers with drawers are wall-side furniture stacked against walls.
Clothing, bedding sets, and other home essentials can be stored in wardrobes, but dressers are compact storage pieces.
Dressers do not always come with cloth hangers like wardrobes. Women find the aesthetic dressers more attractive as they come equipped with useful mirrors when getting ready.
Also, dressers are essential for safely storing accessories, cosmetics, jewellery, and other small items.
So, what is it for you – a dresser or a wardrobe?