The Best Makeup Vanities

Vanity tables go back centuries, once having been associated with royalty. The basic elements of a makeup vanity table are simple. The vanity table itself provides the surface for setting beauty items like makeup and hairbrushes. A mirror allows you to see what you’re doing. For shorter makeup vanity tables, you’ll also need a comfortable chair to finish off the look.

You may get ready while standing in front of your bathroom mirror, but vanities do have their benefits. If you’re working on perfecting the perfect smoky eye or pouty lips, being able to sit rather than stand will make the time-consuming process easier. Some vanities are built into bathrooms, but traditionally they were set up in a bedroom or sitting area.

For the type of vanity table designed to have you seated in front of it, it’s important to find a chair that’s the right height. Vanity chairs are usually built for the height of a typical vanity, but you’ll want to measure the dimensions to make sure you’ll be at the height you want.

While comfort is important, many homeowners prioritize having a handy place to store the chair so it won’t be in the way between uses. Many vanity tables have room underneath for the chair to slide and keep your floor space clear.

• Vanities come in different varieties, and with different types of chairs. You’ll find some that are set up similar to a piano bench but smaller, and often with cushioning for comfort. You’ll also find vanity chairs that have seat backs and even swivel to let you turn to face away from the vanity table if needed.
• The sturdiness of the vanity’s legs is important. You’ll want one with solid legs that are strong enough to support whoever is sitting at it, doing her makeup.
• Some vanity tables allow you to adjust the height, which will give you a little leeway when you’re looking at dimensions.