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Are you considering buying a boucle chair and wondering if it is a good investment? Boucle furniture has gained popularity in recent years, but is it just a passing trend or a timeless classic? Let's explore the world of boucle and find out if it's worth adding to your home decor.
The Longevity of Boucle
Boucle fabric, pronounced boo-CLAY, has been around since the middle of the 20th century. It first gained recognition as an accent chair upholstery material and later became popular in fashion, with the iconic Coco Chanel boucle jacket. With a history spanning more than 70 years, boucle can be considered a classic rather than a mere trend. While trends come and go, classics never go out of style.
The longevity of a boucle chair depends on its design and quality. When choosing a boucle chair, pay attention to the style and materials used. A well-designed and well-crafted chair can stand the test of time and never go out of fashion.
Image: Cozy corner of living room near window, white boucle chair and gooseneck lamp
The Terminology of Boucle and Its Siblings
To make an informed decision about a boucle chair, it's important to understand the fabric's terminology and how it compares to similar fabrics. Here are a few terms you should know:
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Boucle: Made with a blend of synthetic and natural fibers, boucle fabric has small loops or curls that create its unique texture. It falls between sherpa and linen in terms of softness and is suitable for both clothing and furniture.
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Sherpa: Sherpa fabric is a curly pile fabric made with synthetic yarns. It is soft, fluffy, and primarily used for lining clothing. It resembles wool and is an animal-friendly alternative to shearling.
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Shearling: Shearling is made from the skin of a sheep or lamb right after it has been shorn. It has a smoother texture than sherpa and feels like suede on the underside. Shearling is warm and has natural antimicrobial properties.
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Fleece: Fleece is predominantly made from polyester or other synthetic fibers. It is lightweight, soft, and cozy, but not ideal for very cold weather.
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Tweed: Tweed is a low-pile woolen fabric with woven patterns. It is known for its durability and ability to keep you warm.
These terms are often used interchangeably by retailers, so it's important to understand the specific characteristics of each fabric when choosing furniture or clothing.
Durability and Kid-Friendliness of Boucle
When investing in furniture, durability and kid-friendliness are key considerations. Boucle upholstery offers both of these qualities. The nubby texture of boucle hides dirt well, and the short loops prevent it from becoming matted and worn-looking quickly. Compared to smoother fabrics like linen or cotton blends, boucle upholstery provides more texture and dimension, making it a great choice for homes with children and pets.
Image: Selection of boucle chairs
To keep your boucle furniture clean and well-maintained, frequent vacuuming is recommended. Pay attention to the fibers used in your furniture and adjust your cleaning methods accordingly. Whether it's synthetic or blended with natural wool fibers, understanding the material composition will help you keep your boucle chair looking its best.
The Cost of Boucle Furniture
The cost of boucle furniture can vary depending on the materials used and the craftsmanship. Natural wool yarn is more expensive than synthetic alternatives, so higher-quality boucle chairs may come with a higher price tag. Look for chairs that use high-quality wood for legs, superior foam for cushions, and durable stitching techniques.
Image: Living room with white boucle chair and brass side table, rug and hardwood floors
Considering the durability, timeless appeal, and unique texture of boucle, it's safe to say that it is worth the investment. If you're hesitant to commit to a boucle chair, start small by adding boucle accessories like pillows or throw blankets to your decor. This way, you can experience the cozy look and feel of boucle without making a major commitment.
Image: Selection of sherpa and boucle benches and chairs
Boucle in Your Home
To create a designer look in your home, mix and match different furniture styles. Boucle pieces can add that extra touch of style and sophistication to any room. Take inspiration from how I incorporated boucle furniture in my own home:
In my living room, I added a pair of white curved boucle chairs to contrast the rectangular sofas and coffee table. The low profile and soft edges of these chairs make them perfect for the space between the kitchen and living room.
Image: View of white living room with pair of white boucle chairs, two velvet sofas, fireplace all with built-ins around TV
In my basement, I went for a moody and modern look with bold black walls. The light boucle chairs in this space provide a warm and cozy vibe while blending seamlessly with the black-and-white color scheme.
Image: Light boucle chair in room with contrasting black walls
A boucle bench is a versatile piece that can be styled for every season. In my entry hallway, I use a boucle bench to add a neutral touch that complements the overall decor.
Image: White boucle bench in dressing room with windows and marble floors, hand-woven rug
Swivel vs. Static
When choosing a boucle chair, consider whether you prefer a swivel or static feature. In high-traffic areas, static chairs are more practical, as they won't constantly need to be turned back to face the right direction. However, in less frequently used spaces, swivel chairs can add a touch of fun and versatility.
Images: Selection of static boucle chairs / Selection of swivel boucle chairs
Boucle furniture is a timeless choice that can add warmth and style to any home. You don't need a multitude of boucle pieces to make an impact; just select purposeful pieces that suit your space. As we've discovered, boucle isn't just a passing trend—it's here to stay!
Psst! For those of you wondering how I hung my drapes:
