Bouclé, Velvet, or Leatherette? Here's How to Pick the Right Upholstery for Your Space

We’ll be the first to say it: when it comes to custom furniture, choosing the right fabric can be just as important as choosing the right piece.

Your upholstery isn’t just about color—it affects texture, comfort, and how your space feels. And if you're torn between bouclé, velvet, and leatherette, we get it. Each one brings its own personality (and practicality) to the room.

So we broke it down: which one works best for your lifestyle, design aesthetic—and yes, the occasional coffee spill.

1. Bouclé: Textured, Trendy, and Totally Cozy

You’ve seen it everywhere—and for good reason. Bouclé (French for “loop”) is soft, nubby, and full of character. It adds instant texture and warmth to minimalist spaces and brings a sculptural feel to modern silhouettes.

Best for:

Neutral, organic, or Scandinavian-inspired interiors
Reading corners, accent chairs, and conversation pieces
Cozy vibes with tactile appeal

But note: Bouclé can be a little trickier to clean than other fabrics, so it's best suited for low-traffic zones or homes without little ones or pets who shed.

Shop the look:

Harlow Bouclé Armchair — A fan favourite for nooks, corners, and layered living rooms
Luna Soft Curved Sofa — Soft curves meet soft texture in this curved stunner

2. Velvet: Classic, Lush, and Low-Key Glamorous

Velvet is timeless. Whether you go jewel-toned or neutral, it has a natural way of elevating a room. Ours? We use premium European velvet that’s fire retardant, pet- and child-friendly, and comes in dozens of rich colours.

Best for:

Formal living rooms and luxe bedrooms
Statement sofas and tufted headboards
Households that want durability and drama

Bonus: Our velvet is surprisingly easy to maintain—just vacuum regularly with a brush attachment, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Shop the look:

Siena Three-Seater Sofa with Ottoman — Understated elegance with optional ottoman and custom velvet finishes
Durham Bed — Pair velvet with high-quality leatherette for a luxe bedroom centerpiece

3. Leatherette: Sleek, Spill-Proof, and Surprisingly Stylish

Think of leatherette as the modern multitasker. It offers a sleek, contemporary look and serious practicality. We love it for family-friendly spaces and homes that need furniture to work just as hard as they do.

Best for:

Dining chairs, TV lounges, or high-traffic family rooms
Easy-clean households (just wipe with a damp cloth!)
Clients who love the leather look—without the high maintenance

Shop the look:

Premium Leatherette Chesterfield Armchair — Choose leatherette for a sophisticated twist on a classic piece
Kensington Premium Leatherette Modular Sofa - For sleek design and modular configuration that allow you to customise your seating arrangement to fit your lifestyle perfectly

So... Which One’s Right for You?

Love texture and natural tones? Go for bouclé.
Want timeless glamour with practicality? Velvet is your friend.
Need something spill-proof but stylish? Leatherette all the way.

And if you’re still unsure—don’t stress. Our design team is happy to walk you through swatches, test combinations, and help you visualise the perfect piece.