Velvet Armchair Styling Secrets For Modern Living Rooms

It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon and you are curled up in a luxurious velvet armchair with a captivating novel in hand. The gentle pitter-patter of rain against the windowpane creates the perfect ambience for your literary escape. Pure bliss. Velvet armchairs have a certain je ne sais quoi that can elevate any living room from drab to fab in an instant.

If you’ve been eyeing this sumptuous seating option but are unsure how to incorporate it into your space, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to spill all the styling secrets you need to know to make a velvet armchair the star of your modern living room.

The Velvet Vibe: Velvet Armchair Styling Secrets

Let’s start with the basics. Velvet is smooth, sophisticated and irresistible. When choosing your velvet armchair, opt for jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue or regal burgundy. These hues scream opulence and make your living room feel like Buckingham Palace (minus the corgis).

Alternatively, opting for a velvet armchair in shades of grey or other neutral tones is like finding the perfect little black dress – it’s timeless, versatile and oh-so-chic.

Grey, in particular, is a chameleon of sorts. It can swing from cool and contemporary with a sleek silver tone to warm and inviting with a deeper charcoal. It’s the perfect backdrop for pops of colour through accessories like vibrant cushions or a bold throw.

Neutrals, on the other hand, are the foundation of understated elegance. A velvet armchair in a soft beige or creamy ivory can be the calming centrepiece of your living room. Dress it up with metallic accents or keep it serene with whites and pastels – it’s your canvas to play with.

Remember, it’s not just about the colour, it’s how you style it that counts.

Texture Tango: Mixing Materials With A Velvet Armchair

Pair your velvet armchair with contrasting textures. Think faux fur throws, chunky knit cushions or a rustic wooden side table. The juxtaposition of soft velvet against rough-hewn elements creates a dance of textures that’ll have your guests doing a double take. The beauty of contrasting textures lies in the delightful interplay between different tactile experiences. When you pair a velvet armchair with varying textures, you’re creating a sensory feast for the eyes and touch.

Imagine the velvet, it’s smooth with a slight sheen that catches the light, whispering luxury and comfort. Now, introduce a faux fur throw. It’s fluffy, soft and adds an instant layer of warmth. Draped over the arm or the back of the chair, it invites you to curl up and lose yourself in its embrace.

Next, consider chunky knit cushions. Their thick, woven patterns provide a visual and physical contrast to the velvet’s sleek surface. They add depth and interest, beckoning you to reach out and run your fingers over the intricate loops and braids.

Finally, a rustic wooden side table stands as a testament to nature’s raw beauty next to the refined elegance of the velvet armchair. The wood’s grain, knots and imperfections tell a story of time and life, grounding the opulence of the velvet in the earthiness of the timber. This dance of textures isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about balance. The softness of the velvet and fur is offset by the solidity of the wood, and the plushness of the knit cushions provides a comforting counterpoint to the smoothness of the chair’s fabric.

By mixing these elements, you’re not just styling a piece of furniture, you’re crafting an experience, a corner of your home that feels thoughtfully curated and uniquely yours. It’s a visual delight and most importantly, a reflection of your personal style.

Selecting The Best Legs For Your Velvet Armchair

Show off those legs! No, not yours – the armchair’s. Choose an armchair with elegant, tapered legs. Whether they’re gold-dipped or mid-century wooden wonders, these legs elevate your velvet throne from “Nice” to “Oh-my-gosh-I-need-this-in-my-life”.

But why stop at tapered? Let’s explore splayed legs for a moment, they’re like the open arms of a welcoming host. They give your armchair a stable base and a contemporary flair that says, “Come, sit, stay awhile”.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not go for turned legs? With their intricate twists and curves, they’re the showstoppers that take your velvet armchair from “Oh, that’s nice” to “Where did you get that masterpiece?”

Pairing A Side Table

Every armchair needs a trusty side table as a sidekick. It’s the Robin to your Batman, the Watson to your Sherlock. It’s where your cuppa rests, your book finds a home and your phone charges (because even armchairs need juice).

A side table with a marble top is the epitome of elegance. It’s cool to the touch, visually stunning, and adds a slice of luxury without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re resting a hot mug of tea or displaying a vase of fresh flowers, the marble acts as a pristine canvas for your everyday items.

And who said side tables have to be square? Embrace the unconventional with a side table in a quirky shape. A round, hexagonal or even freeform design can add an element of surprise and whimsy to your living room. It’s a conversation starter that says you’re not afraid to break the mould.

Opt for a side table with drawers or shelves. It’s a clever way to keep clutter at bay while having your essentials within reach. Remote controls, coasters and other knick-knacks finally have a home that’s both practical and chic.

Grounding With A Rug

Why a rug, you ask? Well, a rug isn’t just a floor covering, it’s a magic carpet ride for your senses. It anchors your space, defines zones and adds that touch of luxury. Plus, it’s like a soft landing for your feet, no more chilly toes on frosty mornings.

Measure your armchair’s footprint. You want the rug to peek out a bit, like a flirtatious hemline. Too small, and it’s like wearing ankle socks with stilettos – awkward. Too big, and it’s like wearing your partner’s oversized hoodie – cosy but not quite right.

Matchy-matchy or contrasting colours? It’s your call. If your velvet armchair is a bold statement piece (hello, mustard yellow!), go for a neutral rug – beige, cream or even a subtle grey. If your armchair is understated, unleash your inner Picasso with a vibrant rug – maybe a Moroccan pattern or a splash of teal.

Bringing It All Together

So there you have it – the velvet armchair styling secrets that’ll make your living room the talk of the town. Whether you’re revamping your entire living room or just looking to add a touch of glamour, a velvet armchair might be just what you need. Embrace the velvet revolution and let your living room shine with sophistication and charm. After all, there’s nothing quite like sinking into a velvet armchair at the end of a long day, feeling like royalty in your own home.

P.S. If you catch your cat napping on the armchair, consider it a purr-fect endorsement. 😺

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Maintenance Tips For Velvet Armchairs

Velvet might look high-maintenance, but with a few simple tips, you can keep your velvet armchair looking plush and pristine:

• Regular Brushing – Use a soft brush to keep the fabric looking fresh and to prevent dust from settling.

• Spot Cleaning – Blot any spills immediately with a dry cloth. For stains, use a mild soap solution and gently dab (never rub) the affected area.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight – Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colour to fade. Position your velvet armchair away from windows or use curtains to filter the light.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Velvet Armchairs…

“DO play with positions. Much like a poor choice of colour combinations, an awkward or unnatural positioning can make an accent chair stand out for all the wrong reasons.”
Rachel Edwards at Country Living

Read More: The dos and don’ts of styling an accent chair, according to an interior designer

“If you love her movies, you’ll probably love her living room too. Academy Award–winning actress Marisa Tomei showcases her passion for beautiful objects throughout her New York City apartment – and her living room is its crown jewel. Take a seat? Why, don’t mind if we do.”
Sofia Quintero & Camille Okhio at Elle Decor

Read More: 90 modern living room ideas you’ll want to steal right away

“When looking to upgrade our home interiors, an armchair could be that little accent that makes a world of difference. Ultimately, finding the right armchair comes down to personal taste and space.”
Lauren Cunningham at The Independent

Read More: 7 best armchairs that will help you sit back and relax in style

Buying The Perfect Velvet Armchair For You

Carmen Deluxe Chesterfield Armchair, Black Velvet (£379)

Charlotte Classic Chesterfield Armchair, Antique Gold Mottled Velvet (£379)

Colette 360° Swivel Armchair, Ocean Blue Premium Mottled Velvet (£269)

Velvet Armchairs Available Online Now – View All

You might be thinking that a velvet armchair sounds like an expensive addition to your home after reading these styling tips. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available right now at Furniture Outlet Stores that don’t compromise on style or quality. Whether you’re furnishing your cosy nook or creating a reading corner fit for a bookworm, our affordable velvet armchairs and accessories have got you covered.

Treasure Hunting At Furniture Outlet Colchester

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Please note that the pricing/availability information displayed in this blog article, including photos and videos, were correct at the time of sale and may be subject to change without notice.