There is no disputing: Gwyneth Paltrow has taste. The Goop founder might be better known as the Queen of wellness trends, but there's no denying she also has an eye for beautiful interiors, even down the minutiae of mirrors.
After sharing a carousel of snaps to her Instagram, we couldn't help but swoon over her Parisian chic dressing room, specifically, the way she puts an elevated twist on relatively conventional closet mirrors. We've long considered the American actress a master of the quiet luxury trend, and just like Paltrow herself, the space embodies an understated elegance that looks and feels expensive.
It's all thanks to the ornate frames and the aged patina of the glass, which gives her space a vintage edge. (That's right – those dark speckles that appear on your old mirrors are trendy.) If you've overlooked the power of decorating with mirrors until now, this space is sure to make you think again.
Of course, there are other features that contribute to the air of sophistication in Gwyneth's walk-in closet. From the wainscoted walls to the classic chandelier, it's certainly a space fit for Hollywood royalty. And yet, her decision to opt for antique mirrors hints that shabby chic could be making a comeback.
The aged glass feels particularly intentional. This process, known as desilvering, happens when the silver backing on a mirror breaks down and forms dark patches. Instead of seeing it as a marker of poor quality, Paltrow – like many interior designers - wears it as a badge of honor, evidence that the mirror is antique.
'Gwyneth Paltrow’s choice of mirror for her dressing room demonstrates how effective the incorporation of antique mirrored glass can be,' says antique mirror specialist Dominic Schuster. 'Its aged patina and gentle foxing add a softness and unique character that contrasts with the contemporary finishes seen elsewhere in the room.'
This classic full-length mirror has distressed paintwork on the frame for a relaxed, boho feel.
Aged glass - a process known as silvering - gives mirrors an old, distressed look that adds unique character.
This antique-style mirror has an ornate brass frame. Mount in your walk-in closet to instantly elevate the space.
Decorating with vintage also has an impact on the overall feel of the space. Unlike plain modern mirrors, which Schuster notes can often feel quite cold and stark, Paltrow's mirrors have softened with age. 'Antiqued mirrors offer a softer luster that diffuses light to flattering effect,' Schuster explains. 'It replicates the natural degradation seen in aged mercury glass with gradual patina changes, imbuing each piece with unique charm.'
The ornate shapes of the closet doors themselves continue this theme. The cutout corners and molding detail add depth and intricacy compared to contemporary, minimalist styles. 'They bring a decorative elegance that softens the architectural lines of the space,' Schuster says. 'It's a perfect example of how antiqued mirrors can balance practicality with artistry to great effect.'
If you're in the market for fresh bedroom mirrors, take this as your sign to avoid buying brand-new or mass-produced. Paltrow's space makes a strong case for using antique mirrors to not only soften a room but also elevate a scheme with a subtle hint of luxury.
