The Bouclé Chair: Bouclé Up And Strap In

The allure of the bouclé chair is not for the faint of heart. And I’m certainly not calling you lily-livered, but you’re here aren’t you? Look, there ain’t no shame, go ahead and proclaim: “bouclé is OK!” (and now that you’re read those words, you’re an official, card-carrying member of the Bouclé Club). And no, that is not the name of the “gentleman’s club” out by the airport – it’s a league of aficionados of the very sensible, extremely comfy, just-shy-of-fluffy chair that loves to share: the bouclé.

As a lover of comfy chairs, maybe it was the curly, cozy fabric that caught your eye. Or persnaps it’s the promise of a comfortable seat that you can sink into after a long day toiling in the salt mines, what all you want is to be held in the arms of your fluff daddy. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone. The bouclé chair has been quietly making its way into the hearts and homes of those in the know, and now it’s your turn to get intimate with this understated icon of interior design.

What The Herk Is Bouclé?

First, let’s address the elephant in the room: how do you even pronounce “bouclé”? It’s “boo-clay,” for those of you who don’t want to sound like a complete novice when discussing your new favorite chair with your equally design-obsessed friends. The word “bouclé” itself comes from the French word “boucler,” meaning to curl or loop, which perfectly describes the appearance and feel of this fabric. The loops can vary in size and tightness, creating a range of textures from subtly nubby to highly textured and fluffy.”

This textile has been around for a while, but it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that some clever designers thought, “Hey, wouldn’t it be great to wrap a whole chair in this stuff?” Enter Jean Royère, the French designer who created the “Ours Polaire” (Polar Bear) chair in 1947. Covered in soft, curly bouclé, this cozy, cocoon-like seat set the standard for the bouclé chairs we know and love today.

This fabric is admired for its soft, cozy feel, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications, from fashion, such as jackets and coats, to home decor, including upholstery, throw blankets, and pillows. Its textural richness adds depth and interest to items, providing both a tactile and visual appeal that enhances the aesthetic of interior spaces or clothing designs.

Bouclé is typically made from wool or a blend of fibers, including but not limited to cotton, silk, and synthetic materials, which contribute to its durability and warmth. Its versatility and distinctive appearance have made bouclé a favorite among designers and homeowners looking to add a touch of elegance and comfort to their spaces or wardrobes.

Bouclé Chair Basics

Now that you’re up to speed on the history, let’s talk about what makes the bouclé chair so special. First and foremost, it’s that gorgeous, textured fabric. Bouclé can be made from all sorts of materials, from wool to cotton to synthetic fibers, each with its own unique character. Wool bouclé has a more rustic, organic feel, while cotton and synthetic options tend to have a sleeker, more uniform appearance.

When it comes to shape, bouclé chairs are all about embracing curves. You’ll often find them in a tub-like design, with a wide, rounded backrest and a generous seat that practically begs you to curl up and get cozy. But don’t be fooled – there are also bouclé chairs with more structured, geometric forms, complete with clean lines and angular accents. No matter the shape, though, the plush, tactile fabric always adds a softer, more inviting touch.

Styling Your Bouclé Chair For Peak Fleek

One of the best things about the bouclé chair is its versatility. It’s like the chameleon of the furniture world, able to blend in with just about any interior design style. Want to add a cozy, textural accent to your minimalist space? Opt for a neutral-hued bouclé chair and pair it with sleek, streamlined pieces. Feeling a bit more daring? Go for a bouclé chair in a bold, vibrant hue and surround it with an eclectic mix of patterns, textures, and vintage finds.

And for those who prefer a more classic look, a bouclé chair with a structured shape can be the perfect way to add a touch of modern flair without overwhelming the room. Pair it with timeless pieces like a tufted sofa or a wooden coffee table, and you’ve got a space that feels both traditional and on-trend.

Keeping Your Bouclé Chair in Check

Of course, with great texture comes great responsibility. To keep your bouclé chair looking its best, you’ll need to give it a little TLC from time to time.

First up: vacuuming. Give your chair a weekly once-over with a soft brush attachment to keep dust and pet hair at bay. For spots and spills, break out the mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush, but be sure to test the solution on a small, hidden area first – nobody wants a chair with a surprise tie-dye effect.

Over time, your bouclé chair may start to look a little worse for wear, with matting or flattening of the fabric. Don’t panic – just grab a fabric shaver or a special bouclé brush and give it a gentle once-over to restore its fluffy, fabulous texture.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks. The bouclé chair: a cozy, stylish, and surprisingly low-maintenance addition to any design-conscious home. With its plush, tactile fabric and inviting form, it’s the perfect place to curl up with a good book, a cup of tea, or just your own thoughts after a long day of being a savvy furniture shopper.

So, whether you’re a die-hard minimalist, a bold maximalist, or somewhere in between, there’s a bouclé chair out there waiting to become your new favorite seat in the house. And with its timeless appeal and versatile styling options, it’s a piece that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Just remember: when someone asks you where you got that amazing chair, try not to sound too smug when you casually mention its French name. After all, you’re a design aficionado now – it’s all part of the territory.

Happy lounging, fellow furniture enthusiasts. May your homes be filled with comfort, style, and just the right amount of bouclé.

Frequently Asked Questions