Vintage vanities trace back to the dressing tables of 18th-century France, where the poudreuse held powders and mirrors for a lady's toilette. The look later split in two: the gilded flourish of Art Deco and Louis XV, and the pared-back simplicity of the mid-century makeup vanity.
Styles to Know
Mid-century makeup vanities with slim tapered legs are seeing strong search interest, though Art Deco vanities with mirrored or lacquered finishes remain a popular choice for more formal bedrooms. A vintage mirror completes the piece if it doesn't already include one, and a vintage table lamp adds flattering light.
How to Choose the Right Vintage Vanity
A vanity works best near a window or another source of natural light, worth keeping in mind when planning where it will sit, and the knee-clearance height is worth checking against the stool you intend to pair with it. Each piece comes from a vetted 1stDibs seller, with era, designer and condition detailed. Backed by the 1stDibs Promise on every order.