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How to Use Velvet in the Home

By Philippa Baker, 23rd June, 2015

Whilst there are many fashionable fabrics out there, none is as luxurious as velvet. Traditionally owned by the wealthy and affluent, its trademark characteristics range from its opulent sheen through to its sumptuously soft feel. Regal and refined, its historic status as a material of the upper classes means it’s a sure-fire way to lend a touch of elegance.

After falling out of fashion for a while, there’s no doubt that the trend for velvet is back. As well as experiencing a dramatic revival on the catwalks, interior designers have fully embraced this lavish trend too. Used for upholstering furniture from seating to headboards, along with other décor pieces such as curtains and wallpaper, this beautifully indulgent fabric lends depth, character and class to any room. We show you how...

Velvet Interior

Start Small

If you’re feeling a little hesitant, our advice is the same as if you were introducing a bright colour into a neutral interior – start small. In the lounge, try scattering a few velvet throw cushions on the sofa, or why not create a feature wall with pretty velvet embossed wallpaper.

When it comes to furniture, try a singular occasional chair in the corner to start with. With a short but soft pile, our Fleur Chair is undeniably striking yet won’t overwhelm. Plush velvet fabric upholsters its modern seat, making it ideal for the lounge, study or any relaxed living space. In the kitchen, try the Ascot Bar Stool Black for a luxurious look.

Choose The Right Type

Some may be wary of velvet, thinking back to the dated and heavy looking theatre curtains of the past. It also has somewhat of a reputation for being a little high maintenance; however this is not the case, as it all depends on the type you choose.

There are now many varieties out there, from sumptuous pure velvet through to more budget friendly velveteen or velour. Each has its own benefits and distinctive look, and as the various types are made up of different materials, each will wear slightly differently.

Luxury Velvet Dining Chairs


Back in 2015, a new line of crushed velvet items on our website signalled a revival in the popularity of velvets more broadly. A glamourous option thanks to its signature shimmer, the material’s recognisable lustre was manufactured by exposing the fabric to water, squeezing it together, applying pressure at different angles, then allowing it to dry with a unique crumpled appearance.

Crushed Velvet Bar Stools In Kitchen


Our much-loved Ascot Bar Stool Velvet was one such product, its encompassing seat and backrest adding to its palpable sense of luxury. Beautifully versatile, it made a real statement when situated in a kitchen, at a breakfast bar.

Because of the nature of fashion, and changing trends in interior design, crushed velvets have been somewhat superseded today by smooth velvets and our range has been updated to reflect as much. You can see some examples of these below:

Make A Statement

If you love the luxe look, then don’t be shy – make a statement! With their affluent aesthetic, fabric dining chairs upholstered in regal velvet are ideal for creating a formal dining area that will really wow your guests.

Channelling the grandeur of the past, our Etienne Dining Chair has a lavishly textured upholstery which is complemented by quilted button detailing on the comfortable backrest. Chic chrome studs ensure that the Etienne dazzles from all angles. With a real upmarket elegance, it’s the perfect design for dressing up a plain or neutral interior.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an item that combines luxury living with a modern touch, you may be interested in our exciting range of brightly coloured velvet chairs and stools. The Glam Dining Chair has a sophisticated build and an attractively sleek finish, complete with neat piped edging that accentuates its minimalist design. Best of all, the Glam is available in blue, green and grey variants that offer striking pops of colour in any setting.

Pair With Complementary Materials

Whilst velvet will no doubt speak for itself, it pays to enrich the lush aesthetic by pairing it with similarly sophisticated materials. With a timeless warmth and classic character, wood makes the ideal choice.

Velvet Dining Chairs


When it comes to chairs, choose those with solid wooden legs in a divine walnut or dark black finish, as seen on the sumptuous Kensington. Its velvety grey seat with stylish buttoning strikes a trendy monochrome look against the dark finish of the legs.

Need a little inspiration? Check out our Viva La Velvet pinterest board for more décor ideas and velvet products.

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