A wardrobe trunk is a piece of furniture used for storage, generally of clothes that are out of season, or which will not be worn for a period of time, since they will be more difficult to access in the trunk. These are largely regarded as being more classic or traditional pieces of furniture, and many of them are vintage or even antique. These can be used in bedrooms for storage, often placed at the foot of the bed. Many people, however, also repurpose one for use as a coffee table in the living room because they are often made so well and have great decorative appeal. Nearly all wardrobe trunks are made of wood; oak and cedar are popular choices, but there are other options as well.
In the past, a wardrobe trunk was used for both traveling with one's clothing, as well as storing out of season items when they were not in use, such as heavier winter items. Though wardrobe trunks are rarely used for travel anymore, many people still use them for storing clothes. A wardrobe trunk may also be used for storing shoes, coats, or any other items; it is a great way to keep things out of the way.
It is possible to purchase a wardrobe trunk new at a furniture store, but antique or vintage ones are popular as well. These can be found at antique stores, flea markets, or even estate sales, and can vary quite greatly in price. Some people want to purchase a cheap one to use as a child's toy box. This can be a good idea, but it is important to make sure that a bumper is placed around the lid so it cannot slam down on a child's fingers.
Using a wardrobe trunk as a coffee table is another popular option. Items can be stored inside it, and the top can be used to display other items. Many wardrobe trunks have additional decorative features that add a nice touch, such as an ornate clasp, carvings, or painted items such as flowers. For homes with more traditional decor, or a lot of other pieces of antique furniture, this can look very nice. This look does not generally fit in very well in more modern homes, however.