Buyer’s guide to mirrors

2. Know no limits

Who says mirrors are just for walls? Reflective furniture can add a whole new dimension to a room, creating light and a sense of space. This Barcelona Console and Stool (£650) by Graham and Green is girlishly pretty and simultaneously unobtrusive. 'Do be aware of what you are reflecting though, and where you placing a mirror,' warns Jamie Green, partner at Graham and Green. 'Reflect something beautiful such as a chandelier rather than huge piles of clutter!'

4. Frou frou

For a super-girlie theme, start with a really extravagant mirror. This Oval Venetian Mirror (£185) from Graham & Green is not for minimalist fans but will certainly set the tone for frills and flounces. Boudoir chic is back with a bang.

3. Lighten up

'In narrow or dark spaces, mirrors are an ideal way to maximise available light and increase a sense of space,' says Bailess. Position cleverly, such as opposite windows for best effect. This water hyacinth mirror (£125) from Lombok is large enough to reflect even the most imposing of indoor spaces.

5. Bold is beautiful

When it comes to choosing that perfect mirror, don't shy away from eye-catching designs. Treat it like a work of art which is decorative as well as functional. Opt for opulence with this stunning Ornate framed mirror (£89) from M&S. Collections of mirrors make an interesting alternative to art. Start with a large mirror and place smaller ones around it for an eclectic mosaic effect.

6. Into the green

Strategically placed mirrors in the garden create an impression of space and transform a bland area into something quirky and magical. Suspend from trees for twinkly interest, place under planters and pots for depth or hang on garden walls to draw the eye to an illusory secret garden beyond. Have fun with this Illusion window mirror with shutters (now £29.99, was £49.99) from Crocus.

7. Spacially savvy

'Used to fully clad a wall in a small room, mirrors immediately double the space visually. This is especially effective if you put half–moon or narrow console tables against it – they become full circles or larger tables in the mirror,' says Adrienne Chinn, of Adrienne Chinn Design Company. We love this dark oak mirror shelf, (£70) from Heal's. Double up your ornaments for a spectacular spacial illusion.

8. Funky not functional

Mirrors don’t need to be purely functional. 'Pick interesting shapes' says Julia Ritzenthaler, founder of boutique furniture store, UniqueVanities.com. 'Square is good, but unusually–shaped mirrors can add extra interest to a room.' Dressing will never be dull with this buddha mirror (£21.99) from Sendmeamirror.com.

9. Vamp up with vintage

According to Jane Bailess from John Lewis, 'The key trends for 2008 are plain or smoked glass mirrors, with a move away from formal or elaborate frames.' This Art Deco mirror (£316) from Wallace Sacks is an unusual yet super stylish take on a timeless classic. Just as à la mode today as it was in the 1920s.

10. Colourful co–ordination

When choosing a mirror, it's crucial to take colour into consideration. 'You have to know what room the wall mirror will be hung in and what style of mirror will match up with the theme of the room,' stresses Joe Tobiasz, creator of Wall–Decor–Concepts.com. This stylish Berkeley Mirror from Hyde House Designs (£260) is the perfect solution for those who only think in black and white.

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With all that extra light, you'll be able to see your room very clearly. Read our guide to getting a good mood home and make sure yours is in high spirits. Or go nuts and create your own wall art.

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