Accessorizing a Dresser Top

Place a large mirror or framed piece of artwork above your dresser to create a focal point that adds a feeling of spaciousness to the room. Drape a gauzy piece of fabric around your mirror to create an air of romance. Avoid placing a television near your dresser -- if you must, mount your television above the dresser rather than on your dresser-top.

Place identical lamps on either side of your focal point for balance and symmetry. Scale the lamps to the size of your dresser -- if you have artwork as a focal point for your dresser, choose a lampshade with a design that complements, rather than contrasts, your framed print. For example, don't pair a floral patterned piece of art with a lamp shade designed with an animal print. Use each element to create a sense of flow.

Organize your dresser top by grouping like items together. Categories may include jewelery, cosmetics, loose change, lotions, creams, perfumes and toiletries. Set up decorative trays, small dishes and/or baskets to neatly store your items.

Place one or two candles around the other items on your dresser top for both utility and design. Keep the candles in reflective glass holders, to create the illusion of space on your dresser top. When seasonally appropriate, place flowers in a tall vase on your dresser to bring forth the element of nature without taking up a lot of room. Leave room on your dresser to place a few of your favorite books.

Don’t over accessorize your dresser. Leave enough empty space to set down transitional items, like keys, receipts, mail and cups. Over decorating your dresser top can lead to a clutter problem elsewhere in your bedroom. Don't leave transitional items on your dresser top for more than a day; remain vigilant about keeping your dresser top clean and clutter free.