Boucle chairs are super cozy and stylish. The fabric has a thick, nubby texture, almost like a chunky sweater. It’s incredibly soft and comfortable to sit in. But boucle chairs also look really fancy and high-end, with that calm, textured look. You can use them to make any room feel warm and inviting, whether your style is modern, vintage, or somewhere in between.
What is Boucle Fabric?
“Boucle” is actually a French word that means “loop.” It refers to this unique fabric that’s woven with yarn that has all these little loops and knots throughout. This creates this super cool, three-dimensional, almost nubby texture that’s just so visually interesting.
The looped construction also makes boucle chairs fabric incredibly durable and long-lasting. It’s excellent at hiding wear and tear, and it’s even resistant to pilling. That’s why it works so well for upholstery – it can really stand up to daily use without losing its lush, cozy feel.
Benefits of Boucle Chairs
There are many reasons to choose boucle-chairs for furnishing a home or outdoor living area:
Distinctive Styling
Boucle fabric’s unique, textured look is just so eye-catching. It adds so much visual interest and depth, whether you choose a standard off-white or one of the many beautiful colour options.
Unmatched Comfort
The springy loops and knots in the fabric create this fantastic, soft, cradling feel. Boucle chairs practically hug your body, relieving pressure points so you can sink in and relax.
Highly Durable
Unlike delicate upholstery fabrics, Boucle is super tough and resilient. It can withstand years of regular use without showing significant wear and tear. Plus, it resists stains and moisture really well.
Affordable Luxury
Even though Boucle has this really high-end, luxurious look and feel, it’s actually relatively cheap compared to other premium upholstery options like leather. So you can get that rich, sophisticated vibe without blowing your budget.
All-Season Versatility
Thanks to its insulating properties, Boucle keeps you comfortable year-round. It won’t absorb moisture, either, so boucle chairs are perfect for covered outdoor spaces, too.
Popular Styles of Boucle Chairs
Boucle chairs come in a variety of configurations to complement any decor. Some of the most popular styles include:
Lounge Chairs
These extra-deep, oversized chairs are all about maximum relaxation. The generous proportions cradle your whole body, and many of them even recline for napping or lounging.
Armchairs
Classic boucle armchairs offer plush comfort with a bit more structure, thanks to the arms and high back. Swivel bases make them super versatile for arranging.
Club Chairs
Club chairs have a lower profile and wider seats than standard armchairs, giving them that classic, sophisticated “gentleman’s club” vibe. They’re perfect for cozy dens or libraries.
Rocking Chairs
What could be more soothing than gently rocking back and forth in a plush boucle rocker? They’re great for calming fussy babies or just unwinding after a long day.
Papasan Chairs
The rounded, bowl-shaped design of papasan chairs provides this enveloping, cocoon-like comfort. Plus, the swivel bases let you take in 360-degree views.
Beanbag Chairs
For the ultimate in casual, sink-right-in relaxation, you can’t beat boucle beanbag chairs. The soft, supple fabric and squishy fill the mould of your body perfectly.
Chaise Lounges
Chaise lounges are the ideal solution for stretching out your entire body comfortably. Their long shape offers full support for both your torso and legs simultaneously. Adjustable backrests on many chaises enable both upright and fully reclined positions. Chaises impress when paired with other boucle seating on roomy porches or poolside patios.
Accent Chairs
Fun, compact accent chairs serve both stylish and practical purposes. Neutral colored boucle brings warmth and texture to bright, contemporary settings. Vivid hues inject cheer into dull spaces. Thoughtful placement creates engaging conversation nooks and reading spots. Accent chairs provide versatility without dominating rooms.
Office Chairs
Now that work-from-home has become routine for many, boucle office chairs lend panache to home offices and spare bedrooms doing double duty. Swivel armchairs offer lumbar support for long hours at the computer. Whimsical boucle prints and textures make drab desks dynamite. Office chairs complete stylish and functional workstations.
Where to Place Boucle Chairs at Home and In Your Garden
Boucle chairs enhance relaxation and style across indoor and outdoor living areas:
Living Rooms
Group Boucle chairs around a coffee table for an intimate conversation nook. Or flank a sofa with matching accent chairs to pull the whole look together.
Bedrooms
Place a comfy boucle chair in a quiet corner for reading, relaxing, or just curling up and watching the storm. They’re the perfect cozy touch.
Dens & Studies
Boucle’s rich texture complements wood panelling, leather, and antique accents. Arrange a few around a game table for a classic, clubby vibe.
Outdoor Spaces
Boucle chairs and chaises are ideal for porches, decks, and pool areas. The moisture-resistant fabric dries quickly and withstands the elements.
Sunrooms
These light-filled, climate-controlled spaces are just begging for plush boucle seating. Cluster the chairs around with plants and throw blankets for the ultimate relaxation oasis
Poolside
Make a backyard pool feel resort-like with plush boucle chaises lining the perimeter. Adjust fully reclined backrests to follow the sunlight. Cool off conveniently at the water’s edge without leaving the comfort of your chair. Manage towels and sunscreen from side tables. Don and shed coverups and flip flops easily thanks to the moisture resistant fabric.
Combining Boucle Chairs with Other Furnishings
While boucle chairs make stellar standalone statements, thoughtfully integrating them with other furnishings amplifies their visual impact and usefulness within overall room schemes:
With Sofas and sectionals
Pair sleek modern sofas with boucle accent chairs to soften the lines. Repeat the boucle fabric in throw pillows for a cohesive look.
With Coffee & Side Tables
Arrange your boucle chairs around wood, glass, or metal tables for convenient access to drinks and snacks. Nesting tables offer flexible configurations.
With Ottomans
Boucle-covered ottomans make the perfect footrests or extra perches. Tuck them right up next to the chairs so they feel like a natural extension.
With Area Rugs
Anchor your boucle seating with a low-pile area rug that complements the organic texture. Wool, viscose, and graphic patterns work beautifully.
With Throws
In cooler weather, drape some cozy, washable throws over the boucle chairs so you can bundle up while relaxing.
Caring for Boucle Chairs
With routine care, boucle chairs withstand decades of use while maintaining their visual appeal and luxurious comfort:
Frequent Vacuuming
Boucle’s loopy texture can really trap dirt and crumbs, so regular vacuuming with the upholstery attachment is a must.
Professional Deep Cleaning
Every few years, hire a pro to give your boucle chairs a thorough, deep clean using powerful truck-mounted equipment and non-toxic solutions.
Air Drying Outdoors
After cleaning or if the chairs get wet, make sure to let the cushions air dry completely before putting them back. Please place them in direct sunlight to speed up the process.
Weather & Pest Protection
When not in use, use custom-fit furniture covers to shield outdoor boucle pieces from the elements. Also, regularly check for signs of insect damage.
Rotation & Fluffing
Periodically rotate the orientation of reversible cushions to distribute wear evenly. Fluff and re-disperse the interior fill to maintain loft and support.
Pros And Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Distinctive textured style | Requires frequent vacuuming |
Exceptionally soft and comfortable | Fabric can show dirt, stains |
Durable, long-lasting material | Not recommended for very wet outdoor areas |
Affordable compared to leather | Needs professional cleaning every few years |
Versatile for indoor/outdoor use | Should not be machine washed or dried |
Withstands seasonal weather | Outdoor fabric fades over time |
Easy to clean spills | Indoor fabric can flatten with heavy use |
Variety of shapes and sizes | Children can damage loops/texture |
Hide wear and stains well | Susceptible to insects/pests |
Retain warmth in winter | Lighter colors prone to visible wear |
Stay cool in summer |
Best Brands to Buy From
Brand | Description |
---|---|
Arhaus | High-end chairs and sofas made from eco-friendly and recycled materials |
Crate & Barrel | Stylish modern chairs designed by famous artists |
Joybird | Customizable chairs and sectionals to fit your personal style |
Lulu and Georgia | Chic vintage inspired chairs and accent furniture |
Anthropologie | Boho and floral chairs that make a statement |
Ballard Designs | Traditional and French country style furniture |
Pottery Barn | Reliable everyday chairs for a comfortable classic style |
Decor Rest | Vintage reproduction chairs and ottomans |
Sundance Catalog | Natural fiber chairs with eco-friendly construction |
Land of Nod | Colorful chairs and poufs for kids and tweens |
Why Choose Boucle?
If you seek furnishings that soothe the body and soul while making an enduring style statement, choose boucle chairs. Their cozy texture, cradle-like comfort and rugged durability ensure they perform beautifully for years. Arrange boucle-chairs and chaises artfully throughout your rooms and outdoor living areas to craft a sanctuary well suited for carefree lounging in every season. Once you relax into their embrace, you may never want to leave.