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Decorating with Dress Forms

Susan September 21, 2010

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I’m not sure when my love for old dress forms first began. Somewhere, somehow, they have subliminally wormed they way into my psyche. Whenever I come across one while out antiquing, I am suddenly transported to a beautiful, old Victorian home. The home has a richly carved, mahogany staircase leading mysteriously upward from the second floor. It calls you and you climb the stairs, pausing briefly to catch your breath on the landing as the staircase turns taking you further and further upward.

At the top of the stairs, you spy a curious little door. Where does it lead? Upon reaching the top you open the door, and just for a second you are blinded by the bright sunlight streaming in through the old stained-glass windows. You step inside and the sweet smell of the old timbers combined with the musty smell of the attic takes you back to another place, another time.

Then you see it…illuminated in a single ray of sunlight near an ancient old trunk, tattered photo albums piled around its base. It’s beautiful…despite its shabby, yellowing form and occasional wayward stuffing. You’ve come to rescue it…it’s been a little lonely here in the attic these past 50 years with only the occasional mouse to keep it company. No longer will it stand alone, forgotten…you have a most special place in mind.

Shabby-chic Style Bedroom by Rossana Novella

Rossana Novella

A dress form will add style and whimsy to any room of your home.

Shabby-chic Style by Rossana Novella

Rossana Novella

It will gladly hold all your pretty baubles and bangles, keeping them elegantly displayed until they are ready to be worn.

Traditional Dining Room French Farmhouse table

Our dress form would feel very much at home in this beautiful room filled with wonderful antiques.

Shabby-chic Style Dining Room Dining Room

Dress forms add a touch of whimsy to any room.

Eclectic Bedroom Kelly Rae's House Tour

If you can't find a full size form, old glove forms are fun for displaying jewelery, as well.

Eclectic Bedroom by Restyled Home

Show off your vintage clothing collection with a lovely old dress form. It will bring a smile to your face each time you see it.

When you are done with your nice, hot evening soak, it will have your robe waiting...close at hand.

Modern Kids by casamodern.com

If you can't locate a vintage form or if vintage styling just isn't your thing, there are lots of newer forms available these days. Tucked in a corner, they look stylish and fun in even the most hip rooms.

by saidosdaconcha.blogspot.com

saidosdaconcha.blogspot.com

Dress forms, or "dressmaker's dummy" as they are sometimes called, are still used today by those who enjoy sewing and fashion.

Traditional Closet by Kasey Buick

I just love the look of this cozy attic style closet...and the dress form fits beautifully in this spot.

Traditional Bedroom Traditional Bedroom

The old dress form in my guest room wears an embroidered, vintage blouse. The rich blue of the blouse works well with the blue in the comforter, curtains and upholstered pieces in this room.

Do you have an old dress form that you've rescued? Or, do you have a newer version you are using in your decor? I'd love to see it...please share!

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Between Naps on the Porch

Whimages...six forms...wow! That's amazing that you found so many. I sounds really great...love ball and claw feet on almost anything.

Like September 23, 2010 at 6:09AM

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grandmultipara

I rescued this cutie from the landfill a few years ago. She wears a padded bra because her chest was caved in. Here she is as "Santa in drag" and last year's Welcoming Angel. What shall I do with her this year? Found your website while looking for ideas!

Like December 7, 2010 at 8:07AM

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movingandconfused

Love this post. I am moving to a smaller space. I have used an entire bedroom to build out a closet. As it happens, the only place my piano will fit is under the window in my closet. We are installing my chandelier as I post. I am feeling the Phantom of the Opera vibe. The piano bench has been replaced with an ornate bench perfect for playing tunes and playing dress up. I have to find a dress form to complete this look. I know it sound absurd but, why not? She will be wearing Vintage Bob Mackie.

Like January 18, 2012 at 12:24PM

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