Entryways, bathrooms, bedrooms, above the fireplace; these are some of the most common spots where mirrors show up, whether for function or decor. But the style of the mirror you choose can have a major impact on the overall aesthetic of your space.

If you're aiming for a timeless, designer-style home (because let’s be honest, nobody wants their home to look outdated or cheap), mirrors are one of those decor elements you need to be thoughtful about. The wrong mirror can instantly throw off the look of a room, while the right one can elevate it effortlessly.

In this post, I’m sharing 7 types of mirrors to avoid if you want that understated, timeless, quiet luxury vibe in your home. I’ve also included some designer-approved alternatives that you can shop instead for a more elevated look.

1. Overly Ornate Mirrors

If you love a vintage vibe and your decor leans toward old-world charm, mirrors with ornate details can be a great choice, especially those with a brass frame. But be careful with overly ornate frames that are loaded with intricate carvings or heavy vintage designs. They can feel visually overwhelming and make a space look cluttered rather than refined.

Instead, opt for a mirror with just the right amount of detailing to keep the look elegant and timeless. These are arched mirrors with vintage detailing at the top, framed in brass, that instantly bring a vintage charm to any space. They add character without feeling overly ornate, making them a perfect choice for a timeless, elegant look.

2. Odd, Trendy Shaped Mirrors

Oddly shaped mirrors might feel eclectic and trendy at first, giving your home a fresh, updated look for a short time. But in the long run, they’re more likely to make your space look dated and less refined. If the frame is plastic, that’s an even bigger red flag. Steer clear!

Instead, stick to simpler, classic shapes like round, rectangular, or arched mirrors. These timeless silhouettes will always add a sense of elegance and sophistication to your space.

3. Geometric Mirrors like Hexagon

Geometric-shaped mirrors, like hexagons or designs that mix shapes, such as a circle within a square are some of the biggest pitfalls when aiming for a timeless look. These styles often feel overly trendy and can quickly date your space, making it look less refined.

Instead, opt for classic, standalone shapes like a circle, rectangle, or square. The simpler the design, the longer it will remain stylish and elegant. If you want a fancy style, a curvy mirror is always a great alternative too. A well-chosen mirror should blend seamlessly into your decor, not compete with it.

4. Sunburst Mirros

If you love mirrors with spikes radiating out like a sun, I’ve got news for you. They’re cheapening the look of your home. Mirrors should enhance a space, not overpower it. The more intricate the design, the more it distracts from the other decor elements you’ve carefully styled.

For example, if you place a sunburst mirror above your entryway console table, it will dominate the space, making everything else, like the decor on the table, feel secondary. Instead of adding elegance, it creates visual clutter. Skip these overly ornate designs and choose something simpler that complements, rather than competes with, your decor.

5. Bedazzled Mirrors

These are the kinds of mirrors you’ll often see in spaces that aim for a bold, glamorous, over-the-top look. While they can make a statement, they’re far from timeless.

Bedazzled mirrors with decorative borders, specks of faux diamonds, or crystal-like embellishments tend to date a space quickly. Unless you're intentionally going for an art deco or ultra-glam aesthetic, these mirrors can cheapen the overall look of your home. Instead, opt for sleek, understated designs that add elegance without feeling excessive.

6. Clustered Mirror Panels

These mirrors are more about decoration than function, acting as standalone statement pieces rather than practical reflectors. If you’ve seen honeycomb mirrors or bubble-shaped mirrors clustered together for a decorative look, you know exactly what I mean.

These styles are often used to fill a blank wall above a couch or in a dining space, but they almost always end up making the space look cheap, and they’ll feel dated before you know it. Instead of investing in a trendy mirror set that won’t stand the test of time, opt for a classic framed mirror that adds depth and elegance without overwhelming the space.

7. Multi-purporse Mirrors

Mirrors with shelves or hooks for small storage solutions might seem like a clever space-saving hack, especially if you’re working with a smaller footprint. But trust me, there are far better ways to create quick storage without bundling everything onto a mirror.

While these multipurpose designs may feel practical, they often compromise on aesthetics, making a space look cluttered rather than refined. For a more elegant and timeless look, keep the mirror simple and separate your storage solutions. Instead, opt for wooden wall hooks, a sleek floating shelf, or a console table with drawers to store everyday essentials without sacrificing style.

There you have it! 7 types of mirrors to avoid if you want a home that feels timeless, elegant, and effortlessly stylish.

Mirrors do more than reflect. They set the tone for your space. The wrong one can make a room feel cheap or overly trendy, while the right one adds sophistication that lasts. Stick to classic shapes, simple frames, and well-crafted designs, and you’ll never have to worry about swapping it out in a year!

7 Types of Mirrors to Avoid (And What to Buy Instead) for a Timeless, Elegant Home