Old Names for Wardrobe: What They Were Called Back in the Day

Ever heard someone refer to a wardrobe as an armoire or a press and wondered what’s up? Those words are just older ways of naming the same storage piece we use today. Knowing the history can make you sound smarter when you shop for furniture or chat with a designer.

Armoire – The Fancy French Closet

An armoire is a tall, often ornate cabinet that originated in France. It usually has a hinged door, shelves, and sometimes a hanging rod. People still love calling a high‑end wooden wardrobe an armoire because it sounds classy. If you’re looking for a piece with a bit of drama, ask for an armoire and you’ll get a unit that’s both functional and decorative.

Press, Chifforobe, & Other Old‑School Terms

A press is basically a British term for a wardrobe with a pull‑down ladder. It’s perfect for reaching high shelves without a step stool. Chifforobe blends a chest of drawers with a wardrobe – a handy combo for smaller rooms. Then there’s the cupboard, which originally meant any closed storage, but over time it’s become more associated with kitchens.

These old names aren’t just trivia; they often hint at the piece’s design. A press will usually have a ladder, a chifforobe combines drawers and hanging space, and an armoire tends to be decorative. Knowing this helps you pick the right name when you’re searching online or asking a retailer.

When you type any of these terms into a search engine, you’ll get slightly different results. ‘Armoire’ pulls up luxury wooden pieces, ‘press’ gives you ladder‑type wardrobes, and ‘chifforobe’ shows hybrid units. Using the right word can save you time and get you exactly the style you need.

So next time you need extra storage, try naming it with its old‑school label. Not only will you sound knowledgeable, you’ll also find the perfect piece faster. Whether you go for an armoire, a press, or a chifforobe, you’ll be keeping your clothes organized in a way that’s been trusted for generations.