Velvet Sofa: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Effortlessly blending elegance with comfort, a velvet sofa isn’t just a purchase, it’s an investment in a luxe lifestyle. It’s for those who appreciate the finer things in life and understand that home is not just where you live, but how you live.

But with so many options out there, how do you choose the perfect velvet sofa for your home? From selecting the right style and colour to navigating different budget options, consider this your ultimate buying guide for velvet sofas!

Why Buy A Velvet Sofa?

Imagine running your fingers across the lush surface of a velvet sofa – the gentle nap, the subtle sheen. Velvet isn’t merely a fabric, it’s an experience. It’s like petting a pampered cat or sipping champagne in a bubble bath. That’s why velvet sofas exude opulence without breaking the bank. Plus, they’re as versatile as a chameleon at a colour party.

Associated with the nobility and luxury for centuries, velvet’s rich texture and deep hues can transform any room into a regal setting. Whether you’re hosting a formal gathering or lounging on a lazy Sunday, a velvet sofa provides a stunning focal point that takes your decor to new heights.

Velvet’s unique weave reflects light in a way that gives colours an unmatched depth. From jewel tones to pastels, a velvet sofa can showcase vibrant colours that fabric or leather simply cannot match.

In addition, contrary to popular belief, modern velvet sofas are also durable and easy to maintain. Many are made to resist stains and fading, ensuring your sofa remains timelessly beautiful for years to come.

What Size of Velvet Sofa Is Best For You?

Whether you’re looking for a cosy loveseat or a spacious sectional, velvet sofas come in a range of sizes to fit any room.

Velvet 2 Seater Sofa
Compact doesn’t mean compromising on style. A two-seater velvet sofa is like a snug cocoon – perfect for solo Netflix binges or intimate chats with your favourite person. Opt for jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue to make a statement.

Best For: Cosy corners, small apartments or adding a touch of luxury to your reading nook.

Velvet 3 Seater Sofa
A three-seater velvet sofa is the heart of your home. It’s where laughter echoes, where cushions become forts and where you binge-watch your favourite series. Opt for a deep teal or mustard yellow – it’s like a warm hug for your entire clan.

Best For: Family movie nights, hosting friends and creating a cosy central spot in your living room.

Velvet 4 Seater Sofa
The 4-seater velvet sofa is your social hub. It says, “Come one, come all!” Picture a Friday night with friends, sipping wine and sharing stories. Choose a rich wine-red or midnight navy – it’s like inviting sophistication to your party.

Best For: Grand gatherings, epic game nights and making a bold statement.

Velvet Recliner
Sink into a plush velvet recliner sofa or armchair, feet up, remote in hand. It’s your personal escape pod. Go for a rich burgundy or midnight black – the kind of colours that say, “I’m here to relax, but I do it glamorously.”

Best For: Lazy Sundays and afternoon naps.

Velvet Corner Sofa
Corners are magical, they’re where conversations flow and memories are made. A velvet corner sofa wraps around like a warm hug, inviting everyone to snuggle up. Choose a neutral shade like dove grey or blush pink – it’s chic and versatile.

Best For: Maximising space, hosting movie nights and creating a cosy family hub.

Velvet U-Shaped Sofa
The U-shaped sofa wraps around like a velvet embrace. It’s where you lounge, work and daydream. Plus, it defines your space without walls. Go for a neutral grey or forest green – it’s like a cosy nook in a bustling city.

Best For: Open-plan living spaces, creating zones and embracing versatility.

Velvet Modular Sofa
The modular sofa is your velvet canvas. Mix and match sections to fit your space – corner pieces, ottomans and single seats. It’s like Tetris for grown-ups. Velvet modules come in various colours, so you can create your own masterpiece. Think teal, mustard or even daring mustard-teal combos!

Best For: Customising your seating arrangement, hosting game nights and rearranging your living room on a whim.

Velvet Loveseat
A velvet loveseat is like a mini-sofa with maximum charm. It’s perfect for small living rooms or even as an accent piece in your bedroom. Imagine sipping tea with your favourite person, surrounded by velvet goodness. Go for blush pink or soft lilac – it’s like sitting on a cloud of dreams.

Best For: Romantic evenings, cosy chats and creating a snug spot for two.

Velvet Chaise Lounge
Picture this: You, draped in velvet, reclining like a 19th-century aristocrat. The chaise lounge is elegance personified. It’s where you sip champagne (or herbal tea, no judgment) and ponder life’s mysteries. Opt for deep forest green or royal purple – it’s the stuff of vintage movie scenes.

Best For: Channelling your inner diva, reading novels and striking dramatic poses.

Velvet Sofa Bed
Practicality meets plushness with a velvet sofa bed, it’s your secret weapon against last-minute sleepovers. During the day, it’s a stylish sofa. At night, it unfolds into a dreamy bed. Opt for a classic navy or deep plum – it’s like having a velvet magic trick up your sleeve.

Best For: Unexpected guests, sleepovers and turning your living room into a boutique hotel suite.

The Sought-After Velvet Sofa Colours

Velvet sofas come in a kaleidoscope of colours. Feeling bold? Go for a deep emerald green velvet sofa, it’s like having a slice of the Amazon rainforest in your living room. Or perhaps a rich burgundy for that touch of vintage glam? If you’re a minimalist, a dusty rose or midnight blue velvet sofa whispers sophistication. Remember, your sofa colour sets the mood. Want a serene vibe? Opt for pastels. Craving drama? Dark hues are your best friends.

Beige Velvet Sofas
A beige velvet sofa is the ultimate neutral, a canvas just waiting for your personal touch. Whether you’re looking to make a statement with bold accents or prefer the understated elegance of subtle textures, it’s a veritable gallery of possibilities. And with its inherent lightness, beige can transform any room, making it feel more spacious and open.

Black Velvet Sofas
Black velvet sofas are the undeniable drama queens of the furniture world, demanding attention and radiating sophistication. When paired with vibrant cushions or metallic accents, they create a striking contrast that’s both bold and beautiful.

Blue Velvet Sofas
With their spectrum of shades, blue velvet sofas have long been a timeless choice for those seeking style and comfort. They offer not just a seat, but a statement of sophistication and depth that can anchor any room with ease.

Brown Velvet Sofas
Warm and inviting, brown velvet sofas create a cosy cocoon perfect for snuggling with a cup of cocoa on a drizzly day. Their natural tones harmonise with wooden furniture, evoking the serene essence of a forest right in your living room.

Cream Velvet Sofas
Cream velvet sofas are all about versatility, serving as a neutral base that’s a dream to style with any colour scheme. Their warm undertones are a perfect match for patterned textiles, colourful accessories and the rich hues of reddish woods.

Green Velvet Sofas
Green velvet sofas are a nod to nature, offering a fresh and inviting vibe that seems to bring the outdoors in. Whether it’s the crispness of apple green perfect for a country cottage or the moody romance of forest green, they add a touch of personality and variation to any setting.

Grey Velvet Sofas
A perennial favourite, grey velvet sofas are celebrated for their incredible versatility. They pair seamlessly with a myriad of colour palettes, offering the freedom to switch up your living room decor with ease. The textured finish adds a distinctive touch, while their ability to complement cool tones from neutrals ensures a balanced look.

Mustard Velvet Sofas
Mustard velvet sofas are like sunshine in furniture form, radiating warmth and brightening your space with the vibe of an endless summer day. They’re a throwback to the ’70s, evoking retro cool with memories of disco balls and lava lamps. Mustard is a hue that demands confidence, it’s a bold choice for those ready to embrace its vibrant energy.

Pink Velvet Sofas
A bold and playful choice, pink velvet sofas infuse any room with a vibrant, electric energy. Bright or jewel-toned, they create a statement that’s both fun and chic. Imagine one nestled against lush green plants or a moody charcoal wall, it’s a delightful contrast that makes your heart skip a beat.

Teal Velvet Sofas
Teal is the colour of tropical waters and mermaid tails, it brings a refreshing coastal feel to your space. A teal velvet sofa is like a flamenco dancer in a room full of waltzers – bold, unexpected and utterly captivating.

White Velvet Sofas
Elegance personified, white velvet sofas are like the Emma Watson of furniture – graceful, poised and effortlessly chic. White pairs seamlessly with any decor style. Whether your home is a minimalist haven or a maximalist wonderland, a white velvet sofa plays well with others.

Velvet Sofa Styles That Sizzle

When it comes to interior design matters, there’s a velvet sofa for every style. Whether you’re a literary romantic, a mid-century maven, a minimalist guru, a boho babe or a glam diva – just one look and you’ll be absolutely smitten!

Here are five of our top picks:

Boho Chic
Fringe, tassels and mismatched pillows. The bohemian style is all about mixing patterns, textures and throwing in some global-inspired accents. Perfect for free spirits who dance barefoot in moonlight. It’s like Coachella for furniture!

Classic Chesterfield
A velvet sofa with those iconic deep button tufts, rolled arms and a touch of old-world charm. That’s the Chesterfield style. It’s like inviting Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice into your living room – or bedroom! Pair it with a vintage rug, a cup of Earl Grey and you’re practically in a Jane Austen novel.

Contemporary Cool
Now, if you’re all about that minimalist life, the contemporary velvet sofa is your spirit animal. Think sleek, low-profile designs, monochromatic hues and maybe a quirky throw pillow or two. It’s like the Tom Hardy of sofas – suave, mysterious and ready for action (or Netflix marathons).

Glamorous Hollywood Regency
Step into the spotlight like you’re the next Marilyn Monroe or Margot Robbie. Add gold accents, faux fur throws and jewel tones. If your motto is “more is more” then the glamorous velvet sofa is your soulmate. It’s like attending a red carpet event every time you sit down. Paparazzi not included.

Mid-Century Modern
Imagine sipping a martini (or a mocktail, if you prefer) on a velvet sofa that screams Mad Men vibes. The mid-century modern style is all about clean lines, tapered legs and a dash of retro flair. Think Don Draper meets Audrey Hepburn.

KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT BUYING A VELVET SOFA

The DOs of Buying Velvet Sofas

• DO whip out that tape measure and go the full Sherlock Holmes to deduce the perfect spot for your sofa. It’s all about making sure your new velvet stunner fits like a glove – no cramping its style!

• DO a quality quest. Remember, a velvet sofa is more than just a pretty face, it’s a keeper. Hunt down the ones made with top-notch timber, hard-wearing velvet and cushions that bounce back like a pop song chorus.

• DO ponder over your daily doings at home. Got a furry friend or a mini-me running around? You’ll want a velvet that can take on the spills and thrills. And if your pad’s the go-to for a natter and nibbles, make sure there’s plenty of plush seating for the gang.

• DO a comfort quest: Looks can be deceiving, so, if you can, give that velvet sofa a proper sit-test at a showroom. Lounge, sprawl and snuggle to make sure it’s as comfy as a cloud.

The DON’Ts of Buying Velvet Sofas

• DON’T ignore your interior design aspirations. Dive into your decor dreams and pick a velvet sofa that vibes with you. Whether you’re all about timeless grace, sleek chic or retro allure, there’s a sofa out there with your name on it.

• DON’T let not your room be vexed by an ill-fitting sofa. Avoid extremes – too large and it’s a room hog, too small and it’s a lonely island. Balance, my friend!

• DON’T sacrifice cosiness for aesthetics, your tush deserves a velvet throne fit for a queen. While style is a star, comfort is the co-star.

• DON’T forget about your sofa’s delivery. Before you purchase, carefully map the delivery path around your home. Doorways, hallways, staircases, we’re talking about the whole enchilada! Navigate wisely, lest the sofa be stranded like a shipwrecked sailor.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Velvet Sofas…

“When you shop, you’ll be looking for the perfect style and measurements, but also details like filling and feet, which are essential decisions. From our experience, when it comes to shopping for a sofa there’s a lot to contend with – including delivery.”
Karen Silas and Maisie Bovingdon at Hello!

Read More: Our favourite top trends and sofa brands for 2024

“Not only is velvet furniture entirely on-trend, it’ll also add some much-loved texture to your living space”
Nikhita Mahtani at Homes & Gardens

Read More: 9 best velvet furniture pieces

“A green velvet sofa is a timeless classic, but Victoria Beckham has elevated it with this clever twist”
Rebecca Knight at Ideal Home

Read More: Victoria Beckham has nailed laid-back luxury with her careful choice of sofa cushion style

“Typically available in shades of teal, rust, emerald and blossom pink, velvet sofas make for a luxe, timeless and elegant furniture piece with their appeal showing no signs of wavering.”
Tania Leslau at London Evening Standard

Read More: Best velvet sofas – opulent seating with a timeless elegance

“Velvet sofas are experiencing a resurgence in popularity at the moment, because they’re a beautiful and luxury living room addition.”
Hannah Healey at Which?

Read More: How to buy a sofa

Velvet Sofa: Styling Tips & Tricks

Oh, so you’ve just brought home the Rolls-Royce of sofas – a velvet beauty! Let’s get that showstopper looking like it’s ready for its close-up in a glossy mag, shall we?

Let’s start with a texture tango. Mix up those cushions like you’re the DJ of fabrics. A bit of faux fur here, a dash of knit there and maybe a sprinkle of linen for good measure. Not only does this add tactile appeal, but it also makes your sofa look more inviting and cosy. It’s all about creating that ‘come hither and snuggle’ vibe.

Next, throw a pattern party. Don’t shy away from a bold geometric or a flirty floral. It’s like your sofa is wearing its party dress, ready to dance the night away with every cushion combo you can dream up.

Now, let’s add a splash of colour. A zesty cushion or a cheeky throw can make your neutral velvet sofa sing like a canary. It’s the cherry on top of your chic styling sundae. Consider incorporating geometric, floral or tribal motifs in your throw pillows, rugs and curtains to add personality and character to your living room.

Time to sprinkle some metallic mojo. A brass side table here, a copper lamp there. It’s the jewellery that makes your velvet sofa dazzle like a diamond. The contrast between the plush velvet and the gleaming metal creates a striking visual impact that elevates the overall look of your living room.

Don’t forget a bit of greenery galore. Place potted plants or fresh-cut flowers on side tables, shelves or windowsills near your velvet sofa to add a natural element. A plant or two will make your space feel like Mother Nature herself has given it the thumbs up. It’s the breath of fresh air your chic den needs.

For those nippy nights, let’s talk blanket bliss. Opt for plush fabrics like cashmere or faux fur for an extra touch of indulgence, and choose a complementary colour or pattern to tie the whole look together. Drape a cashmere throw over the back of your sofa, and voilà, you’ve got yourself a cuddle buddy that’s as stylish as it is cosy.

A little lighting love goes a long way. A warm lamp glow can turn your velvet sofa into the most inviting spot in the house, like a beacon of comfort. Dimmer switches are also a great option for adjusting the brightness to suit different moods and occasions.

Finally, sprinkle your space with a personal touch. Photos, souvenirs or that odd trinket you picked up at a flea market – they’re the secret ingredients that make your space uniquely yours.

And there you have it, a velvet sofa styled to the nines, ready to make your living room the envy of the neighbourhood. So fluff those cushions, dim those lights and let the lounge luxuriating begin!

What Is The Best Way To Clean A Velvet Sofa?

Keeping your velvet sofa looking as fabulous as a royal corgi in a tiara is easier than you think. While we’ve got some nifty tips below to help keep your sofa looking as snazzy as a jazz club on a Saturday night, they’re just for your general information only. Before you actually dive into a cleaning routine, it’s wise to have a chinwag with a pro first, just to make sure your sofa stays in tip-top shape. So, remember, we recommend you call in the cavalry (aka the cleaning experts) to remove any persistent sofa stains. They’ve got the know-how and tools to make sure your velvet sofa’s always ready for its Instagram close-up.

Brush Away the Blues: Your velvet sofa deserves a little pampering. Grab a soft double-sided brush, think of it as a spa day for your furniture. Gently brush against the pile to restore its sheen. Say goodbye to lint, dirt and pet hair – they’re so last season.

Vacuum Like a Pro: Velvet’s soft sheen makes dust particles throw a party. Weekly vacuuming is your VIP pass to maintaining that bold appearance. Use an upholstery brush and vacuum in the direction of the fibres. Don’t forget between the cushions and under the arms – velvet loves a thorough hug.

Spill Drama? No Problem!: You spill wine or maybe it’s just a dramatic cup of tea. Panic? Nah, we’ve got this! Blot the moisture away with a paper towel or a dry, absorbent cloth. Tackle spills pronto, velvet hates lingering drama. For dry stains, test a sudsy solution (dishwashing liquid & warm water) on a hidden spot first. No fabric-ruining drama allowed.

Velvet Spa Day: Rinse your cloth with water, wring it out and dip it into the soap suds. Blot around the stained area like a velvet whisperer until the stain vanishes. Ta-da!

Dry Like a Pro: After your heroic cleaning efforts, let the damp area dry naturally. Imagine your sofa basking in the sun, but not too much – velvet hates fading.
Brush any matted fibres, they’ll thank you with a curtsy.

Velvet VIP Care Tip: Use a steamer to prevent long-term creases. Because wrinkles are for shirts, not velvet sofas. If your sofa needs a deep clean, call in the pros. They’re like fairy godmothers for furniture.

Do Mrs Hinch Or Stacey Solomon Have Any Velvet Sofa Cleaning Tips?

You’re after the crème de la crème of cleaning hacks, straight from the domestic goddesses themselves – Mrs Hinch and Stacey Solomon? Let’s see if they can sprinkle some of their fairy dust on your velvet sofa woes.

Mrs Hinch’s Velvet Visions:

The Washing Machine Whirl: Mrs Hinch fans swear by popping removable velvet covers in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Just imagine – 15 minutes and you’ve got yourself a sofa that looks brand spanking new.

The Pink Stuff Magic: For those tricky non-removable parts, the Pink Stuff spray paired with a dry microfibre cloth works wonders. It’s like giving your sofa a magic wand wave.

Read More: Mrs Hinch fans share 15-minute hack for cleaning velvet sofas by The Daily Express Newspaper

Stacey Solomon’s Sofa Savvy:

While Stacey hasn’t shared specific velvet sofa hacks yet at the time of writing this guide, her approach to home organisation and cleaning is all about simplicity and effectiveness. Think using everyday items in genius ways to keep your home sparkling.

Read More: The best hacks from Stacey Solomon’s house clear-out show by Hello! Magazine

So, channel your inner Mrs Hinch and Stacey Solomon, and transform your velvet sofa into a throne fit for a queen! And remember, always do a patch test first – because we want drama in our decor, not in our cleaning routines.

Velvet Sofa FAQs

Is it hard to maintain a velvet sofa?

Velvet is synonymous with decadence. It’s that fabric you can’t help but run your hand along, feeling its lavishly plush surface. But wait, isn’t velvet high-maintenance? Not anymore! Forget the old myths, today’s velvet sofa is an everyday luxury.

Spills? No problem! Unlike other fabrics, stains don’t sink deep into a velvet sofa’s upholstery. Plus, it’s less likely to crush or fade, so your sofa stays fabulous for years.

Does a velvet couch have any disadvantages?

Velvet sofas are like home decor divas – they look fabulous, but they do have their quirks. First off, some sofas can be a bit like magnets for pet hair and dust, so you might find yourself giving them a brush-off more often than you’d like. And if you’re a fan of the spontaneous wine and dine on the sofa, be warned, spills usually need to be tackled faster than a contestant on a game show, or you’ll have a lasting memory of that Merlot.

So, while they’re the showstoppers of seating, some velvet sofas do ask for a bit of extra TLC to keep them looking their Oscar-worthy best!

What’s the difference between crushed velvet and mottled velvet sofas?

Crushed Velvet Sofa

Crushed velvet is a luxurious fabric known for its rich and shiny surface with a crinkled or crumpled appearance. So, what’s the buzz about crushed velvet? Well, it’s like the fabric version of a red carpet – plush, shiny and oh-so-luxurious. How does it get that crinkled, crumpled charm?

This texture is achieved by twisting the fibres of the fabric while wet and then pressing it, which creates the distinctive crushed look. It’s made from various materials such as rayon, cotton, silk or polyester, and is popular for its soft sheen and depth. Crushed velvet is often used in home decor for items like sofas and cushions, as well as in fashion for clothing like evening gowns and accessories. It’s a fabric that adds a touch of glamour and elegance to any item or space it adorns.

Mottled Velvet Sofa

A fabric that’s not afraid to be different, that’s mottled velvet for you. It’s like the Jackson Pollock of velvets, with a kaleidoscope of colours splashed all over, creating a look that’s as unique as your fingerprint.

Mottled velvet refers to a type of velvet fabric that has a pattern of spots or patches of different colours, creating an irregular and variegated appearance. The term ‘mottled’ describes something that is marked with spots, streaks or patches of different colours, and does not form a regular pattern. This effect can be achieved by using multicoloured threads in the weaving process or through various dyeing techniques. Mottled velvet is often used for upholstery, curtains and clothing, providing a unique and decorative texture that stands out due to its distinctive colouration.

This isn’t like the velvet on your grandma’s settee, mottled velvet is the choice for those who want to glam up their sofa and make a statement.

Velvet Sofas – Shop Now

Aspen Large Left Hand U Shaped Sleeper Corner Sofa Bed, Graphite Velvet (£1,499)

Charlotte Classic Chesterfield 2 Seater Sofa, Antique Gold Mottled Velvet (£499)

Lauren Modern Chesterfield 2 Seater Sofa, Mink Velvet with Gold Legs (£599)

Newport Left Hand Chaise Sofa Bed with Storage Ottoman, Olive Velvet (£899)

Velvet Sofas Available Online Now – View All

Open 7 days a week, our retail stores are like an Aladdin’s cave for furniture and have more sofas available than the core range seen here on our website. New stock arrives daily. It’s like Christmas morning every day, but with home decor instead of presents. So, fellow velvet aficionados, grab your keys, put on your comfiest shoes and go on sofa safari at a Furniture Outlet near you. Your living room will thank you!

Meet The Annabelle Velvet Corner Sofa (Now Only £1,399)

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Velvet Sofa Inspiration By Our Customers

Want to share your own interior design inspiration or styling tips for a living room featuring a velvet sofa you purchased from us? To be considered for inclusion in this blog post, just mention @furnitureoutletstores or #furnitureoutlet in your Instagram post and we’ll include the best photos here. We look forward to seeing all the inspirational living spaces you have lovingly created using Furniture Outlet.

Annabelle Sofa Set @cp_homeeditions

Charlotte Sofa @msbhomelife

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Selecting The Perfect Sofa Size For Your Space

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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.