5 Elements of a Perfect Primping Station

Break the monotony of your morning routine by creating a dedicated space for primping and pampering. By incorporating the 5 Elements of a Perfect Primping Station you will be sitting pretty in no time!
Element 1 - Lots of Natural Light and Task Lighting
Try to position your dressing table near a window for the benefit of natural sunlight. If you don't have access to a window, purchase daylight bulbs which simulate the effect of natural white light. Positioning your table so that you receive lighting overhead and on either side of the mirror helps to eliminate shadows. Shadow-free lighting is best when grooming and applying makeup.

Element 2 - Uncluttered Counter Space
A few trinkets or photos are okay, but don't overwhelm your space with irrelevant items. Consider displaying additional photos or inspirational items on the surrounding wall.

Element 3 - Access to Electrical Outlets
If your morning routine consists of blow drying, flat irons, or curling irons having easy access to an electrical outlet is extremely convenient and prevents you from interrupting your beauty ritual to plug-in elsewhere.

Element 4 - Ample Storage
Styling tools, cosmetics, perfumes, lotions, and jewelry consume precious space and require proper storage in order to maintain a well-organized primping station. The custom vanity in the above image has more storage than most. If you don't have the luxury of drawer space, hide additional items underneath a skirted table.

Element 5 - Comfortable Seating
Choose a beautiful and comfortable chair that fits neatly underneath your table. Make sure your chair does not leave you sitting too low too or far from the mirror. Unfortunately, vanity chairs are not designed with ergonomics in mind. When shopping for a chair, choose one that sits like a dining room chair which generally has the ideal seat height and a chair back.

*As an added bonus, install a full-length mirror nearby so you can admire your complete look from head to toe.

Need more eye candy? See below images for additional primping station inspiration!

Dressing tables are available in all decor styles from Art-Deco to Ultra Modern.

You can create a primping station just about anywhere as long as you use daylight bulbs (quick substitute for natural daylight) found at your local home improvement store.

{images courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens,
commentary by Erika Ward for BluLabel Bungalow}

King of Pop Inspired Dressing Room

I'm still unable to digest the passing of Michael Jackson and cannot seem to pull away from news coverage, music videos, or reading about his life on the internet. There are so many rumors swirling everywhere and it's hard to distiguish what is fact and what is fiction. If you know me, you are aware that I am always seeking truth and consistency...Aside from MJ's obvious music talent, he's been consistently known for his style and is a pop culture fashion icon.
You do see where I am going with this right? You've guessed it, a MJ inspired mood board...and what better room to *spotlight* than a dressing room? Here goes,

Do you love it?! And look, there's more!

Mariah Carey's Closet

Kimora Lee Simmons surrounded in her world of Fabulosity

Sorry, I digress..this post is a homage to Michael Jackson, but I just couldn't resist throwing in a few extras for you. MJ will be sorely missed, but his legacy of talent AND style live on forever! Until next time!