Leather furniture will never go out of style, so it’s no shock the pieces are such big staples in homes today. The upholstery has an elevated look that makes it a standout addition to a living room or den. Without a doubt, leather furniture adds a sense of sophistication, plus they age like a fine wine when they’re properly cleaned and taken care of. If you’re looking to add an accent chair to your living space, incorporating leather will give your interiors a fresh and elevated feel. Whether it be an office chair, club chair, lounge chair, dining seat, or recliner, there’s a leather chair on the market that’s well suited for any space.
To help us uncover the best leather chairs on the market, we enlisted the help of designer Hema Persad.
What to look for when shopping for a leather chair
A quality leather chair exudes craftsmanship, and Persad recommends paying attention to the details for a top-notch piece. “Check the seams for proper stitching, check the softness and flexibility of the leather — if it’s not supple it will crack over time.” She points out that softness and suppleness are key for quality leather pieces, and lower-quality leathers tend to be stiff and prone to cracking. “Leather should be firm but not too stiff, and any dye should not rub off when you touch it,” Persad advises.
If you’re prioritizing comfort in a leather chair, Persad recommends going with something that’s textured so you don’t slide around. “Something with a shape that allows you to sink in a bit but that still provides support,” she says.
On the market for a leather chair made from vegan sources? Persad points out that “vegan leathers made from plant materials (i.e. cactus) tend to have a better and more high-end feel than synthetic materials, probably because the synthetic ones contain plastics that don’t give that supple feel you want from leather.”
What are the pros of leather chairs?
Leather chairs are ideal for anyone who wants a luxurious look that will stand the test of time, according to Persad. It’s ideal for modern and sleek spaces as well as a midcentury-style home. To truly make a leather chair complement your space, it’s important to pick the right style and design. Persad points out, “It can look dated if you pick the wrong silhouette. Make sure the silhouette isn’t too bulky. Leather tends to look better in a more streamlined silhouette.”
How to care for a leather chair
Although leather is known to be a durable material, that doesn’t mean upkeep isn’t necessary. Persad recommends conditioning it with a leather conditioner every year. “Try not to get it wet, wipe up water/liquid spills right away, and keep it away from direct sunlight,” she advises.
Ahead, we curated the best leather chairs on the market in a wide variety of styles, perfect for your home and budget. Pick one up for your living room, office, bedroom, or den, and bask in its well-deserved charm. Keep reading to shop our top picks.
Expert Featured in This Article
Hema Persad, founder of Sagrada Studio and art director of “Property Brothers” on HGTV.
