What Is a Chiffonier?

Word Origin

• The French word chiffonier, derivative of the word "chiffon," evokes the gauzy fabrics stored in or surrounding a woman's worktable or dressing table. However, the term also means "rag gatherer."

Style

• The tall chiffonier features many small drawers, similar to the configuration of a lingerie cabinet, but with a wider footprint. You can store accessories, undergarments or treasures in its drawers. Antique chiffoniers may feature a small mounted mirror

Utility

• The chiffonier complemented a sideboard in 19th-century homes. Serving pieces were hidden from view in its many drawers. In small dwellings, the tall chest replaced its wide counterpart and the chiffonier held platters. In a bedroom, a chiffonier held lingerie and acted as a "catch-all."

Chifforobe

• In the early 20th century, Sears Roebuck introduced the chifforobe, a hybrid of a chiffonier and a wardrobe cabinet or armoire. One side features a cabinet for hanging garments or shelves, while the base and remainder of the top feature drawers.