Have an empty living room corner that needs some pizzazz? Accent chair. Feel like your master bedroom looks too…sparse? Accent chair. The list goes on and on, but one thing is clear: an accent chair is like the Telfar bag of furniture. It can instantly elevate a space with color, texture and dimension—and it’ll spare your wallet thousands in renovations for the same effect. So below, I’m breaking down how to find the right accent chair for your space, plus 20 of our top picks, including editor-tested cloud chairs and vintage-inspired reproductions (from Eames to Bellini).
Here Are the Trendiest, Most Comfortable Accent Chairs of 2024
Tested and vetted by our editors
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
Most Comfortable Accent Chairs at a Glance
How We Chose the Most Comfortable Accent Chairs
After researching the top-reviewed accent chairs on the web—and having PureWow editors test some accent chairs out for themselves—I made sure each selection had plush upholstery options (from velvet and leather to lightweight linen), whether they had foam-filled or down-blended cushions and a height of at least 17 inches from floor to top.
Best Accent Chair Overall
What We Like
- responsive foam cushions
- lightweight and easy to move
What We Don't Like
- fuzz builds over time (as per reviewer)
Article
This wingback is yet another mid-century modern option that was designed with one goal: creating the ultimate spot for unwinding, unplugging, and finding relaxation. Its sturdy back, deep seat, and curved arms are elevated with high-density foam cushions wrapped in polyester—and its upholstered options feature a tweed design in blue berry, jay gray, spearmint aqua and orange spice (which, FWIW, is very trendy right now).
To top it all off, the brand promises a less-than-five-minute assembly time that more than 400 reviewers back up: “It was well packaged and easy to put the legs on—so quick! The chair is even more fabulous in person, with flecks of yellow and darker green that really create a great-looking fabric. It's also comfortable. This chair is for my husband who is 6-foot-2. Most accent chairs are much too small, but this fits him well and it's so stylish,” one person writes. Another also notes: “The chair itself is REALLY comfortable, and I love the fabric. Website photos are very accurate.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 57" H x 37" W x 37" L
- Materials: high-density foam cushions, polyester fabric
Editor’s Choice Accent Chair
What We Like
- down alternative and memory foam cushions
- customizable back firmness
- stain-resistant/ washable covers
What We Don't Like
- expensive
- requires some assembl
7th avenue
Unlike traditional down feather chairs, this one is crafted with a blend of down alternative and memory foam, so it provides an ultra-comfortable, sink-into-it feeling without losing shape over time. Take it from PureWow Associate Commerce Strategist, Jael Rucker, who describes it as “top-tier” comfort in a PureWow100 review. She particularly appreciated the fact that you can adjust the firmness of the back cushion from a medium-soft to medium-firm feel, thanks to the complimentary fill packets that come with the armchair. “This has been a very helpful feature as I’ve been using this chair mostly for work,” she says, adding: “It’s also very supportive and sturdy, and after almost two months of using it nearly every day, I can honestly say this is a chair that feels better with time.”
But that’s not all; the chair is built to withstand whatever life throws at you. The upholstery is available in three types of performance fabrics—designed to be water-repellent and stain-resistant—with 11 stunning color options that range from an ivory white performance velvet to a charcoal black performance texture weave. Another plus? “The covers are removable,” Rucker says. While she hasn’t faced any major spills, she found cleaning to be “relatively easy; all you have to do is machine-wash them under the delicate setting and air dry them.”
Due to its modular design, you can change the chair's color by swapping out the covers—and it’s easy to put together. “The assembly process is also straightforward, taking about 15 minutes per piece,” Rucker says. “The pieces were packaged very well, and the instructions were clear and easy to follow.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 56" L X 47" D X 24" H
- Materials: Down Alternative and encased foam cushions, removable/washable covers
Best Accent Chair Under $300
3. Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Faux Leather Armchair
What We Like
- looks and feels like high-quality leather
- attached cushions
- high armrests for added support
What We Don't Like
- often goes out of stock
Hearth & Hand with Magnolia
Coming from Joanna Gaines’s line at Target, Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, this armchair delivers serious comfort at an unbeatable price. The 100 percent foam-filled, attached cushions offer a firm yet inviting seat—and the high armrests are there to cradle you for hour-long lounging sessions. As one Target shopper notes, “The back cushion is actually comfortable, and it doesn’t scream ‘fake leather.’” Style-wise, the chair is also on point for 2024, combining a sleek, mid-century modern silhouette with the warmth of its rubberwood frame. The faux leather upholstery also adds a luxe touch, giving it a high-end look without the hefty price tag. Not to mention that it’s also pet-approved: “We ended up getting two of these chairs and get a lot of compliments! Super crisp, clean and modern looking. It holds up well…even with two dogs,” another reviewer raves.
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 35.5” H x 29.75” W x 33” D
- Materials: faux leather upholstery, rubberwood frame, 100 percent foam filling
Best Easy-to-Clean Accent Chair
4. Valyōu Mario Capasa Feathers Armchair
What We Like
- plush, deep seating
- durable fabric with removable, machine-washable covers
- good for people over 6-foot
What We Don't Like
- cushions require regular fluffing
- occasional feather poking
Valyōu Furniture
If you're searching for an alternative to Restoration Hardware’s cloud chair, this look-alike from Valyōu Furniture delivers that same fluffy, sink-into-it feeling (without the price tag). It’s crafted with a blend of duck feathers and polyurethane foam—and the sofa counterpart of this chair (which has all the same materials) scored a whopping 95 points for comfort in a PureWow100 review by VP of Editorial, Candace Davison. “The deep seats are ideal for tall people (I’m 5’11” and my husband is 6’3”), and the combination of duck feathers and polyurethane foam padding make it plush without eating you alive.” Plus, while it’s mostly filled with duck feathers (43 percent of the filling), the combination of materials ensures it won’t get lumpy.
Yet, the real stand-out feature here is durability. The upholstery is both stain- and scratch-resistant, with machine-washable covers for effortless cleaning. Not only that but you can add an 'ultra-stain resistant repellant' option for an extra layer of protection. “Spills have quickly been dabbed up, leaving no traces behind, though thankfully the whole [chair] features removable covers that are machine-washable,” she adds. The only caveat? Davison notes that the cushions might need a weekly fluffing to keep their shape.
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 39.5” W x 39” D x 28” H
- Materials: pine, ashwood, polyurethane foam and polyester fiber fill, duck feathers, microfiber and cotton covers
Most Customizable Accent Chair
5. Maiden Home The Perry Chair
What We Like
- Scandinavian design with button-tufted details
- 80+ fabrics, including performance fabrics
- high-quality cushions with fiber wrap
What We Don't Like
- might seem more compact in-person (be sure to measure)
- made-to-order; takes up to 5 weeks to ship
Maiden Home
This gorgeous number features a sinuous silhouette and button-tufted details inspired by mid-century Scandinavian design, all wrapped in your choice of high-end upholstery. And it’s not just about good looks—the chair is built with a tight back and seat, using high-density foam cores with fiber wraps to offer supportive comfort that doesn’t lose its shape over time. As Maiden Home reviewer notes, “The firm seat provides support for long reading sessions, while still being cozy enough to curl up in.” The real draw, however, is that it comes in an impressive range of 80+ upholstery options, allowing you to truly make it your own. You can choose from designer-approved performance fabrics, like the Performance Linen Weave for a soft, natural texture or the luxurious Performance Velvet, which has a subtle sheen and stain resistance. And if you want something extra plush, there’s an ethically sourced shearling, which reviewers say is “so cozy and fluffy."
The legs are also made from kiln-dried maple and can be customized to match your fabric choice—and the chair's compact build makes it perfect for smaller living spaces. As another reviewer shared, “I was worried that it would be too petite, but it actually fits our living room perfectly. It’s firm enough to provide support but soft enough for long conversations or reading sessions.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 32"W x 31"D x 32"H
- Materials: high-density foam core with fiber wrap, kiln-dried maple legs, fabric, leather, or shearling upholstery,
Most Timeless Accent Chair
What We Like
- can tilt back 15 degrees
- padded lumbar support
What We Don't Like
- length assembling process (as per reviewers)
Cottinch
Ah yes, the famous Eames chair. This guy has been a staple of midcentury modern interiors for decades, where its high-grade leather and dark wooden hues can elevate any space. And, aside from the fact that it comes with a matching ottoman, the chair is beyond snuggly with removable sponge cushions that offer a springy feel (which you can swap out over time if they begin to sag). “Chair is lovely to look at, comfortable to sit in, and a great value for the money. The leather is supple, the wood is rich and the seating is plush. ‘Replica’ is an accurate term for this chair—it's a dead ringer compared to the original,” one person writes. In fact, it’s so comfortable, that many reviewers say it even helps with back pain: “I have a chronic back pain condition and having a chair that supports my back is essential. For me, this is the best chair I've ever bought, very comfortable and I have far less pain after using it. I am absolutely delighted with it.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 31.5” H x 33” W x 36” D
- Materials: sponge cushions, genuine leather upholstery, molded plywood frame
Best Compact Accent Chair
7. AllModern Lilou Upholstered Barrel Chair
What We Like
- high-density foam with springy cushions
- compact design with 25.8-inch width
- arrives fully assembled
What We Don't Like
- might be too low for people over 6-foot
- skews firmer/bouncier
AllModern
Crafted with a blend of solid and manufactured pine wood, this number features chunky, sculptural legs while providing a sturdy, bouncy base. The high-density foam cushions (1.9 pounds per cubic foot) ensure lasting plushness that won't flatten out over time—and the seat construction incorporates web suspension, which evenly distributes weight for a springy, supportive feel. You also have the upholstery, made from a polyester blend with a boucle texture, which adds a layer of tactile warmth inspired by faux shearling—very au courant for 2024. One AllModern reviewer notes, “The organic wood grain and plush textures make this chair both cozy and stylish in my small living room.” To that end, at 25.8 inches wide, it’s compact enough to fit snugly into tighter spaces while still offering a 275-pound weight capacity. However, it’s worth noting another reviewer's take: “They look exactly as described… very upright on your back and if you are tall, you may not find them the most comfy.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions:
- 28'' H x 25.8'' W x 25.8'' D
- Materials: polyester blended bouclé, manufactured wood frame, foam cushions
Best Sheepskin Accent Chair
8. ByLassen The Tired Man Lounge Chair
What We Like
- luxuriously soft sheepskin upholstery
- iconic 1930s Danish design
- layers of foam and pocket springs
What We Don't Like
- sheepskin requires more care to maintain
- ottoman not included
DWR
Originally designed in 1935 by Danish architect Flemming Lassen, the Tired Man Lounge Chair brings together timeless comfort and sumptuous luxury. Upholstered in ultra-soft natural sheepskin, this chair's enveloping silhouette features curved, high back and generously padded arms while the slightly reclined shape invites you to lean back and unwind. What’s more, while the OG chair (designed by Audo Copenhagen) runs you upward of $10K, there’s a look-alike available, which features the same luxurious sheepskin finish: "I couldn’t be more pleased! There are 100 different ways to [lounge comfortably in] this chair…I may never leave," one Interior Icon reviewer shares. Again, this review pulls from the same materials as the designer original, which is crafted with plush sheepskin supported by layers of foam and pocket springs for the softest, most indulgent seat. It even includes solid brass wheels, making it easy to move around your space. Another reviewer notes, "A gorgeous armchair—comfy curved armrests, high-backed and soft seating."
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 39.4" W x 35.4" D x 35" H
- Materials: long hair sherpa wool, foam cushions, wood frame, metal wheels
Best Outdoor Accent Chair
9. Serena and Lily Sundial Outdoor Swivel Chair
What We Like
- 64 indoor/outdoor fabrics
- overstuffed cushions with cloud-like feel
- washable slipcover
What We Don't Like
- expensive
Serena and Lily
Looking for a gorgeous swivel chair that can hold up to the elements outside? I suggest you hit checkout on this Serena and Lily number ASAP. Its overstuffed cushion feels like a dream where it’s filled with recycled fiber in a waterproof ticking. You can also customize the slipcover with 64 (!) solution-dyed acrylic fabrics—available in patterned/solid options—and they’re designed to be water-repellent, mildew-resistant and fade-proof under every weather condition. Beyond that, however, the chair features a sustainable, outdoor-grade birch wood frame and a durable mortise-and-tenon construction with a waterproof, stainless steel base. And yes, the cushions are removable and easy to clean—simply remove the slipcover and wipe with a sponge using mild detergent diluted in water. Dust, debris and dirt should wash away like magic, based on what we’ve heard.
“These chairs are so tailored and refined, with pretty, fresh and clean lines. They are the perfect blend of design and function. In fact, they’re so comfortable you melt into them,” one reviewer writes. “Even better, they’re practical! We’re considering adding them to our coastal living room, too. They’re covered with a waterproof adhesive so they’re easy to clean with mild detergent. Constructed of birch, they will stand the test of time. I love layering in cozy throws for chilly evenings so we can enjoy spring, summer and fall!
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 31" W x 39" D x 35" H
- Materials: solution-dyed acrylic, birch wood frame, foam cushions
Best Leather Accent Chair
10. Crate & Barrel Cigar Accent Chair
What We Like
- luxurious burnished leather
- ergonomic design
- sturdy FSC-certified oak wood frame
What We Don't Like
- requires a waiting period for custom leather colors
Crate & Barrel
Wrapped in a burnished leather that’s been dressed with wax and oil for a velvety touch, this leather chair exudes an heirloom quality that only gets better with age. It features a simple, Danish-inspired frame made of FSC-certified oak wood, stained in a warm honey finish, and shaped with tapered round rods. The cushions are also generously padded with foam and fiber fill, while the back cushion billows with deep button tufts, creating the indulgent comfort of a classic club chair. As one Crate & Barrel reviewer describes it, "This chair is the perfect blend of stylish and comfortable...Every element from the backrest shape and height, armrests, seat dimensions, etc., are perfectly designed for a comfortable sit."
Add to that the fact that it’s available in several leather colors, including Tide, Sandstone, and Onyx, each brining a rustic elegant touch. The carefully constructed ergonomic design ensures that every sitting experience is just right, and another reviewer raves, "The leather is soft like butter, and we love the way it has been slightly distressed.” They also added, "We have two in our small library room and designed the rest of the room around them...Iconic chairs we will hopefully keep forever."
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 34" W x 37" D x 37" H
- Materials: FSC-certified oak wood frame, burnished leather upholstery, foam and fiber-fill seat cushion
Best Slipcovered Accent Chair
11. Threshold x Studio McGee Vivian Park Swivel Chair
What We Like
- high-end slipcover at affordable
- washable cushion covers
- 360-degree swivel
What We Don't Like
- slipcover on the frame is not removable
Threshold x Studio McGee
Designed by the Instagram-famous designer, Shea McGee, this chair brings her signature Studio McGee style into the realm of budget-friendly furniture. It features a classic, slipcovered design that not only creates a sleek, tailored look—and the fabric extends to the floor, hiding the frame for a polished finish. And of course, comfort is key here with its padded back, seat and armrests, paired with the added convenience of a 360-degree swivel. One Target shopper raves, “It is surprisingly roomy (I can sit cross-legged) and comfortable too! No regrets! Awesome price. Chairs like this are expensive!!” The textured linen fabric (available in two colors) also adds a high-end feel, while the slipcover’s tight weave ensures durability against daily use. And while the frame's slipcover isn’t removable, the cushion covers can be unzipped and washed, keeping it looking fresh over time. "The fabric is a tight weave and looks very high-end...The chair came packaged very nicely and was already assembled so I just opened the box and set it up—so easy," another reviewer highlights.
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 32” H x 32.3” W x 36” D
- Materials: wood, polyester, foam
Best Velvet Accent Chair
What We Like
- quick assembly time
- sturdy lumbar support
What We Don't Like
- limited color options
Joss & Main
At first, I was drawn to this mid-century modern number for its elegantly tapered legs and moody jewel tones (available in deep brown, olive green, French beige, opal gray, dark navy and fawn brown). But then, after seeing its 5-star rating, I realized: It’s a fan-favorite for more than its good looks. The foam- and feathered-filled cushions allow you to sink in and relax, while the velvet upholstery wraps you in a silky-smooth cloud. It’s also set on a kiln-dried hardwood frame—and the pillows for the back, seat, and arms can be easily removed and reversed—making it a durable, easy-to-care-for statement piece: “These chairs are so luxurious—comfortable, soft, and a great, substantial size. The brown velvet is the perfect, deep shade,” writes one reviewer. “Even prettier in person,” another reviewer says. “They are well made, SO comfortable and beautiful. Everything in our living room is fairly neutral, and the beautiful green gave the room a serene pop of color.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 35.5'' H x 36'' W x 32'' D
- Materials: feather/foam cushions, velvet upholstery, birchwood frame
Best Barrel Accent Chair
What We Like
- twelve upholstery options
- 360-degree swivel base
- available in ivory and navy blue
What We Don't Like
- lighter colors may stain
Birch Lane
Simple, swiveled and oh-so-sophisticated…anything else you’re looking for in a barrel chair? This one not only has rounded arms with a 23-inch height (which keeps it from looking short and dumpy), but its fiber- and foam-filled cushions are set on a kiln-dried wood frame that can support up to 300 pounds.
Then, of course, you have its neutral range of upholstery options, which span from silky velvet and chunky bouclé to performance linens and polyesters that are meant for hours-on-end lounging: “I love the way this modern and elegant chair is the perfect finishing touch to our bedroom. It's a wonderful place to read for a couple of hours; it is very comfortable, and I love the swiveling aspect,” writes one person. Another reviewer mentions that it’s “very well built,” adding that it “easily supports a man of my bigger frame yet does not take up large space in my small room. Swivels perfectly with no catching or noise.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 28.3'' H x 31'' W x 31'' D
- Materials: foam/fiber cushions, linen, velvet and bouclé upholstery options
Best Oversized Accent Chair
14. CB2 Brace Chair
What We Like
- 1970s Italian-inspired design
- large enough for 2 people
- easy to sink into and get out of
What We Don't Like
- low seat height (15 inches) may not be ideal for taller folks
CB2
Here, my (personal favorite) option on this list. What sets this 1970s Italian-inspired chair apart is its size—it’s practically a cozy loveseat. With a width of 43.75 inches and a depth of 39.5 inches, it has a low, deep seat that’s large enough to lounge solo or squeeze in with the kids for movie night. “Great take on a seventies style chair. Firm so easy to get out of, but super comfortable. Everyone in the house loves them from grandparents to kids!” notes one CB2 reviewer. It’s also engineered with sturdy foam cushions, reinforced with sinuous wire suspension, so it has a sturdy yet bouncy seat that maintains its shape over time. Even after nearly a year of use, this chair has held up for another reviewer who writes, “It’s in the same original condition. It’s sturdy, cozy,and the color hasn’t transferred, either.”
To that end, you can choose from 15 upholstery options, including the textured, tactile bouclé (shown above) in teddy cream or an elegant velvet in Dream Pina Colada for a soft, vintage flair. Plus, if you prefer something more durable, the plain weave in Elliot Dove is just as chic as it is durable: “If you’re looking for something that is beautiful on the eyes, but also kid-friendly… this is it! The kids in my family couldn’t get off this chair. They’ve sat & laid on it every which way & position possible.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 43.75" W x 39.5" D x 28.25" H
- Materials: kiln-dried solid pine, plywood frame, inuous wire suspension, poly/acrylic bouclé (other fabrics avail)
Best Armless Accent Chair
15. Eternity Modern Mario Bellini Reproduction
What We Like
- inspired by 70s Mario Bellini
- 3 layers of foam
- 94 upholstery options
What We Don't Like
- still expensive for a look-alike design
Enternity Modern
ICYMI, Mario Bellini is another famous furniture designer who pioneered the curvy furniture craze in the 70s—and his Italian design is back in a *big* way right now. Case in point: this reproduction chair, which pulls inspiration from his famous modern Camaleonda sofa. The cushions are constructed of shaped polyurethane foam with 3 distinct dense layers—so ‘sink in’ is basically embedded in its design—and you have 94 (!!) upholstery options that span from sumptuous cashmere, velvet and suede to ultra-durable performance felt that’ll hold up against spills and stains. “I love the lushness of this [chair]! It’s super soft and great to curl on,” writes one reviewer.
And the cherry on top? The backs and armrests include rings and carabiners, which allows you to use it as a stand-alone accent chair or add pieces over time to create an entire sectional: “It is the best purchase I've ever made and my favorite spot to lounge; it is beyond comfortable and since it's modular, you can move it around and change up your living room whenever,” another reviewer backs up.
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 37.75" W x 37.75" D x 26.4" H
- Materials: polyurethane foam cushions, fabric and leather upholstery options, Merbau wood frame
Best Reclining Accent Chair
What We Like
- electric reclining mechanism
- foam and down feather cushions
- Crypton performance fabric
What We Don't Like
- only 1 fabric option
Arhaus
I don’t even know where to begin with this one. Not only is this a motion-powered recliner with a two-button control (which offers up to 12 inches of adjustable recline), but the design itself is packed with comfort—from extra-padded, down-feather-filled seat cushions to a supportive backrest made from foam and poly-fibers. Add to that, its oversized, 43-inch width and solid, reinforced hardwood frame—and Crypton performance fabric upholstery (aka the best of the best), which is engineered with stain-, odor- and moisture-resistant technology. The TL;DR? It doesn’t get more durable, comfortable and luxurious than this, with square arms and seamless linen fabric that’s totally on-trend.
“[My husband] spotted the Rowland Recliner and jokingly sat down on it, then remarked how comfortable it was. I wasn’t convinced but sat on it myself anyway. Wow. As someone with a broken tailbone, I couldn’t believe it didn’t give me any extra pain. In fact, it was more like a warm hug! I was sold and we added it to our living room design immediately. Stylish recliners can be difficult to come by, even more so ones that are this enjoyable,” writes Hoàng-Kim, blogger behind ColorAndChic.com, who tested this armless version of the Rowland (which is filled with all of the same materials).
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 43" W x 35" H x 41" D
- Materials: down, poly and fiber-foam cushions, Crypton linen performance upholstery, hardwood frame
Best Statement Accent Chair
17. Anthropologie Judarn Sculptural Chair
What We Like
- mural-inspired upholstery with velvet cushion
- sculptural, art-like design
- plush webbed cushions
What We Don't Like
- limited availability; sells out quickly
- requires professional cleaning
Anthropologie
This chair is nothing short of a masterpiece, featuring an intricate design that’s reminiscent of sprawling murals from the 1920s and 30s. It’s upholstered in Anthro’s signature Judarn Tapestry (100 percent polyester linen) and complemented by a luxurious Valencia Velvet seat (85 percent cotton and 15 percent polyester). Of course, this results in a vibrant, intricate bird-and-branch pattern that can bring a sense of whimsy and nature-inspired charm to your space. But it also doesn’t skimp on comfort. The foam-and-fiber-filled cushion sits atop a webbed seat construction, offering a cozy and supportive sit. Plus, it has a wrap-around backrest that gently cradles you, while the soft velvet cushion provides an inviting place to sit for hours.
As one thrilled Anthropologie reviewer notes, “Beautiful, stunning. Honestly my dream chair. Wanted this for so long and was finally able to purchase it last year. Zero regrets, it's a beautiful statement piece AND it's so comfy.” Its sturdy, kiln-dried hardwood frame ensures durability, while the 20.5-inch seat height makes getting in and out effortless.
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 30"H x 33"W x 30.5"D
- Materials: Judarn tapestry and Valencia velvet upholstery, foam and fiber fill
Best Accent Chair With Storage
18. Better Homes & Gardens Juliet Chaise/Storage Ottoman
What We Like
- "chair-and-a-half" design
- budget-friendly w/ hidden storage ottoman included
- plush foam- and fiber-filled cushions
What We Don't Like
- limited color options
- low back height may not suit taller individuals
Walmart
If you’re looking for the ultimate accent chair that pulls triple duty, this one from Walmart’s Better Homes & Gardens collection is it. It comes as a set with a crescent-shaped ottoman that not only gives you a spot to kick up your feet but also includes a hidden storage compartment—perfect for stashing blankets, books, or even that extra pillow. Then, the chair itself is dubbed a “chair-and-a-half,” so it's roomy enough to sprawl out on. The cushions are made from a mix of foam and fiber that strikes the right balance between supportive and squishy, while the upholstery is a super-soft, 100 percent polyester fabric (available in three colors).
One Walmart reviewer raves, “The texture is so soft…and the included ball-shaped pillow became the perfect armrest once I sat down.” Not only that but it’s quick to assemble and has a solid wood frame that keeps it sturdy without weighing down your room's aesthetic. As another happy customer put it, “Not only is it INCREDIBLY comfy, it's so aesthetically pleasing! If I had this chair in my living room, I would never leave.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 45.28”W x 30.31”D x 28.74”H (ottoman: 29.53”W x 20.87”D x 17.32”H)
- Materials: 100 percent polyester, wood, foam and fiber fill
Best Mid-Century Accent Chair
19. Joss & Main Donita Armchair
What We Like
- removable and machine-washable covers
- easy to clean
What We Don't Like
- fabric can take a while to break in
Joss & Main
Another trend people can’t seem to get enough of right now? Cloud chairs. So naturally, we had to include this mid-century modern number, which features a sling-style blueprint with an expansive, cloud-like seat and backrest. The cylindrical metal frame keeps it understated with clean lines while the overstuffed cushions are filled with a foam and feather blend—complimented by sinuous springs that offer support to its sink. It also has a cotton-blend upholstery (available in washed white/blue and gray), and the cushions can be removed and tossed in the washing machine to keep them looking fresh (though, the fabric is durable enough where spot-cleaning is enough for smaller cleans).
“The most comfortable chair ever. It’s like sitting on a cloud. Well-made. Love the color and wiping things off it is easy,” writes one reviewer. They’re not the only hardcore fan. Another reviewer says: “I bought it for the design and stayed for the comfort. Much more comfortable than me or my fiancé would have expected. Feels like a cloud!”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 33.5'' H x 28.5'' W x 29.5'' D
- Materials: foam/feather cushions, canvas upholstery
Best Club Accent Chair
20. Sabai ‘The Essential’ Chair
What We Like
- sustainable materials last a decade
- recycled velvet and upcycled poly fabric
- lightweight yet super sturdy
What We Don't Like
- long wait time for shipping
Sabai
With 100 percent recycled fiber fill pillows and domestically-sourced maple wood legs, it’ll be hard to come by a more eco-friendly (and chic, of course) club chair than this one from Sabai. For those who don’t know, this brand has a mission to reduce furniture waste (read more about that here), while designing pieces that are built to withstand ten years of regular use. And on top of its sustainable cushions, scaping silhouette and modern legs (available in natural and dark brown), it’s also upholstered in recycled velvet or upcycled poly fabrics, which come in 10 enveloping fabrics: “[These chairs] are beautiful and SO soft, plush and cozy. They were very easy to put together (unboxing to relaxing in the living room took 15 minutes) and they somehow manage to be lightweight *and* super sturdy at the same time.”
Not to mention that it’s also ultra-durable and cat-approved: “The fabric is lovely and is easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner. When we first received it, our two cats did a little claw sharpening on the chair [and] the claws left no damage,” one person says. And another adds, “I was concerned that the poly Oat fabric [might] be rough to the touch but found the chair to be softer than expected. I love that if I catch my cats sharpening their claws on it, I notice NO snags in the fabric, and if I did, I could replace that part easily.”
Fast Facts
- Dimensions: 33.5” W x 27.5” H x 32” D
- Materials: recycled fiber fill cushions, upcycled poly or recycled velvet upholstery options, maple wooden legs
What to Look for in a Comfortable Accent Chair
“Usually upholstered, a [comfortable accent] chair should be relaxed yet supportive (not too laidback—save the dozing off for your sofa or chaise). A winning combination in a chair is a design with a high, firm back—to provide sufficient neck and back support—and a comfortable, plush upholstered cushion for your seat. Midcentury-style chairs, in particular, tend to have low backs, so be sure to look at measurements to make sure you have somewhere to rest your head. As for cushions, a [foam- or down-filled cushion with a feather blend] is recommended,” writes Cate Shanks, an expert design writer for Chairish, which is an online source for vintage and unique decor, art, furniture and decorating inspiration. That said, Shanks also outlines a few key features you should look for when choosing a comfortable accent chair:
- Size: “Some people prefer an oversized [accent] chair, as it can accommodate a big throw or blanket and a pillow or two. If you have a pet or kids who like to sit and curl up with you, a large chair is a worthy option,” she says, adding that oversized accent chairs are sometimes referred to as a “chair and a half,” since they’re larger than average but still smaller than a settee.
- Seat Depth: “If you have an extra-tall family member in the house or you just love to curl and put your feet up on your chair, a deep-seated chair may be the best option for you. However, if you’re not especially tall, and you like to keep your feet on the floor while you read, a deep seat could actually be uncomfortable.”
- Leg Heights: “Unlike dining chairs, [accent] chairs generally look and feel more inviting when they have a shorter leg—tall enough so you can comfortably have your legs bent….A seat height of around 17 inches, give or take, is common. As you compare chairs, you may notice that a chunky leg tends to look more inviting and casual, while narrow legs look a little more formal. You should also consider the leg style of other furniture in your room—too many competing styles can feel disorderly, but all the same can look matchy-matchy.”
- Armrests: “There are numerous types of arm styles to choose from, from a tight and narrow English arm, which is more traditional, to a chunky and rounded Lawson arm (which can be transitional), to a track arm, which is definitively modern. In addition to upholstered arms, wooden or metal arms are also an option for an accent chair (and both can be a nice choice for small spaces thanks to their slender profile).”
Most Comfortable Chair Types
“The ultimate accent chair should also be covered in a soft, comfortable fabric that’s inviting yet durable, and not precious. Materials like velvet, twill, cotton, linen and leather (which gets softer as it ages) are all great options for reading chair upholstery,” she says. For high-traffic areas—particularly if you have kids or pets—look to performance fabrics and leather, which is easy to wipe clean.
In terms of style, “tufted reading chairs, like Chesterfield chairs, are a favorite because they have a tight back that has polish and provides support, as well as a thick cushion that’s comfortable… Midcentury Danish lounge chairs, on the other hand, are clean and sleek… If you’re fearful about committing to a certain style, choose something with a transitional look and have fun with accents.”