A statement mirror makes a visual statement, which can come from the mirror's size, shape, frame, glass, or some combination of those elements. You can shop around for a mirror that makes the statement you want, or you can custom design one.

Statement mirrors are a boon to your decorating because of their natural qualities. Mirrors reflect light, so they can make even dim spaces feel bright. Mirrors also reflect space, so they can make small rooms feel larger. And, a statement mirror carries its own presence, so it can augment your décor style.

The classic statement mirror is one that features a gilded frame. The gold-look frame automatically draws the eye, creating a design focal point. Your gilded mirror can look shiny and new with fresh gilding and a clear mirror. Conversely, you can opt for an aged style, with distressing in both the gild finish and the glass.

Naturally, a fresh gilded mirror is ideal for formal décor styles. You often see such mirrors above a loveseat in a sitting room. The distressed version of a gilded mirror works beautifully in styles such as shabby chic and old world. Concerning shabby chic, you see distressed mirrors used in unusual ways, such as a backdrop for a planting bench.

The other classic style of statement mirror is the oversized variety. These mirrors usually come framed, often with noteworthy framing. However, if it's big enough, an unframed oversized mirror can also make a statement. You'll want your décor to drive what style of oversized mirror you choose.

Designers use oversized mirrors in many different ways. You can hang it alone on a wall or prop it on the floor for a more casual appeal. You can double up on the mirrors so they simulate windows. You can even use such a mirror above a fireplace mantle.

A mirror alone is usually a very basic element. With no adornment, a mirror has no visual weight on its own. For décor purposes, the visual interest often comes from the frame. Statement frames can come in many different configurations:

• Bold color
• Starburst
• Teardrop
• Intricate patterning
• Carved wood

Your imagination is the only limit for what a statement mirror might look like. When decorating with such a mirror, you want to ensure it's the décor focal point. It can stand alone on a wall or be surrounded by much simpler décor pieces. You don't want other décor elements fighting for attention with the statement frame.

Frames don't work in every décor instance. However, a plain mirror without a frame can disappear into your décor, meaning it hardly makes a statement. The way to get around this dilemma is to choose a mirror with a border. Said border can be your choice in edging, both with its shape and its style. For example, you could choose a freeform mirror with a composite edge.

Another approach to creating the unframed border is to use etching to create a pseudo-border. In this case, the glass specialist will cut lines into the surface of the mirror to simulate a frame. However, you don't have color or patterning that can interfere with your décor. Such a mirror works well with a dark or deep-colored backdrop to set it off.

A statement mirror doesn't have to work alone. Indeed, you could use a collection of mirrors to make your statement. In this case, you'll hang multiple mirrors with clear geometric shapes. This style of statement works well if you have modern décor because the style favors an adherence to shape.

One way of implementing this installation is hanging an odd number of mirrors with different shapes. Conversely, you could choose two or more mirrors of the same shape, perhaps playing with size. Your choice depends on preference and space available. You'll want to keep within proportions in the room to maintain cohesion — you don't want the installation to overwhelm the space.

Harness the natural benefits of mirrors while using a statement piece to drive your décor. Visit Monterey Glass Specialists Inc.to find an ideal statement mirror.