This Trendy Upholstery Fabric is Like a Chanel Suit for Your Sofa and Chairs

Shearling and sherpa lovers, meet your new favorite decor trend: Bouclé furniture. Popularized in part by the 2018 Goop x CB2 collaboration, bouclé pieces are now trending on Instagram and at other leading retailers like West Elm, Article, and Living Spaces. Billed as a more practical alternative to the aforementioned fabrics, this tactile material adds the same texture and warmth to a space without the potential of shedding.

Of course, Gwyneth Paltrow and her design team weren’t the first to embrace this looped fabric—bouclé has roots in the 1980s and looks most at home draped across the decade’s signature low-slung, rounded furniture. While today’s curved bouclé furniture is decidedly more modern than that of the ‘80s and ‘90s, it serves the same purpose as it did in the late 20th century. Professional and DIY designers alike are using the material to balance out sharp plinth tables and marble accents, and of course, add a subtle touch of texture and dimension to any space. 

The current resurgence of this distinctly nostalgic fabric speaks to the greater trend towards ‘80s-inspired looks, both within the fashion and interior design worlds. To use bouclé in your home in a modern way, follow these five design tips below. 

Contrast is important when adding this soft fabric to your space. Take notes from CB2 and style curved bouclé chairs, like the pair of Gwyneth Boucle Chairs above, with sharp, angular marbles and edgy leather. A plain, no-frills wood table will also help balance out the glam vibes these chairs can introduce. Dark paint colors will also make the ivory bouclé material really pop. 

Not ready to drop upwards of $500 on a piece of bouclé furniture? We get it. Add the trendy material to your space via budget-friendly accents pieces instead like the auburn bouclé thread blanket from Zara Home. Throw pillows are also a great option—we have our eye on this ivory set from Article. 

Bouclé dining chairs offer a slightly pared back take on the trend. The black powder-coated iron frame on the CB2 Azalea Boucle Chairs pictured above adds a bit of structure to this otherwise plush and nubby style. Pair your bouclé dining chairs with a square dining table and geometric accents to create contrast.

Consider Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent’s Chloe Accent Cocktail Ottoman or Mohave Natural Accent Ottoman for a subtle touch of bouclé in your family room. Pair either with a black leather sofa or accent chairs to ground and round out your space. And don’t forget a tray to corral those living room essentials. Ottomans make great coffee tables, and a tray will help level out the surface for holding things like drinks, candles, and plates.

Whether you’re looking for a full-sized sofa or a cozy loveseat, CB2 is all over the bouclé look. Seeing as this trend shows no signs of stopping, we fully support your decision to embrace this funky fabric and opt for a bouclé statement piece. It’s only a matter of time before your design-conscious friends follow suit. Our favorite? The Gwyneth Boucle Loveseat, which would fit perfectly into a smaller space.