Have you ever heard of a slipper chair? The resurgence of the vintage slipper chair is accelerating, and for those who’ve struggled to make do with oversized sectionals and deep armchairs over the past few years, its return in 2026 may feel like a fresh and super-chic option.
Once dismissed as outdated, this low armless chair has emerged as one of the most talked about chairs. furniture trends About now.
The return of the slipper chair
In a dark and moody living room Studio Duggana pair of chunky striped slipper chairs at Ball Feet will help you incorporate print and texture.
(Image provided by Studio Duggan)
Why the slipper chair is back living room trends What I feel is so important right now is that sense of security. The low-profile, streamlined shape provides additional seating without obstructing the view or overwhelming the room’s layout.
Traditionally designed as a bedroom chair in the 18th and 19th centuries, it was made to be comfortable to sit on while changing clothes, and unlike an armchair, it sits closer to the ground and has no arms required, giving it a lighter feel. Many classic versions are fully upholstered and have floor-length skirts, but more tailored versions with longer legs also exist. The common denominator is balance. It’s neat, unadorned, and a bit understated.
in small living roomsimilarly bedroomand even in the nursery, the slipper chair offers structure and softness in equal measure. It’s a great way to achieve a more streamlined silhouette while introducing new patterns and colors into your scheme.
Personally, I started looking at placing it in the bay window of the living room. That’s where you need a space that isn’t too bulky, but still feels like a special design moment.
designed by yellow londonthis cozy breakout lounge area in the kitchen is separated by a flatwoven rug and two slipper chairs.
(Image credit: Yellow London / Photography Matt Clayton)
Jody Hazlewood, as Founder upstairs housenotes that people are avoiding overly bulky furniture and moving toward furniture that has a timeless feel and sits lightly in the room.
“I think the Slipper chair has always been on trend because it’s so elegant, understated, and incredibly versatile.” When we designed our version, Nikki chairwe wanted to honor the silhouette of the classic slipper chair, but give it a modern softness and flexibility that would work as beautifully in the corner of a bedroom as it does in a living space or dressing room,” she continues. “It’s low, inviting, and unpretentious, but it still feels special. It’s a piece that uplifts a room without screaming.”
Designers are also pointing to broader changes in how they want their spaces to look. feel. “Slipper chairs help people in their current lives,” Jen Dean said. jede interior. “Homes are becoming more layered, rooms are doing double duty, and no one wants furniture that visually takes up space.”
“Slipper chairs provide additional seating without disrupting the flow of the room,” continues Jen. “It feels intentional, but not precious. I also think there’s been a shift away from furniture that tries too hard to be momentary. The Slipper Chair is quiet, functional and supportive, and feels really modern in its restraint.”
This soft pink living room by Sean Symington has a more traditional British look, with two soft blue slipper chairs with skirted bottoms as an additional seating option.
(Image credit: Sean Symington)
Sophie Salata, Head of Brand vintageagreed, noting that the Slipper Chair offers an unusual combination of balance and practicality, yet understated and a presence that anchors the room.
“At Vinterior, we have a growing appreciation for these pieces because they strike a balance between form and function,” says Sophie. “They don’t dominate the room, but they still add structure and purpose.”
“Slipper chairs aren’t meant to make a statement, but they subtly change the feel of a room,” she continues. “It’s not so much a style as a lifestyle design, which is exactly what people are drawn to right now.”
If you’re working in a compact space, as Sophie suggests, the slipper chair’s slight silhouette can help you maintain visibility.
Sean Symington “These are incredibly versatile pieces, compact enough to sit comfortably in a bedroom or bathroom, yet with enough character to serve as an accent chair in your living space.”The low, elegant profile is perfect for small areas where a full armchair would feel too dominant, bringing softness to a room without feeling overwhelming. ”
I saw it last year wow house,designer nicola harding We worked with Drummonds to create a moody powder bathroom with a soft slipper chair.
(Image credit: James McDonald)
A sense of visual lightness is important. From Kylie Blalock House of Hive Design Company Slipper chairs also help maintain flow, as they take up less vertical and horizontal space than traditional armchairs, he explains.
“This allows your vision to remain clear,” she explains. “Its low seat height and armless silhouette are perfect for layered interiors, especially in rooms that already carry visual weight with deep sections, built-ins, or heavy woodwork.”
Designers also consider it an ideal canvas for interior decoration experiments. “This shape also lends itself well to experimenting with home decor. The tight tailoring of performance linens gives a structured feel, while the skirt version with smaller prints gives a classic feel,” continues Kylie. “The success of today’s Slipper chair lies in balance and restraint: clean lines, intentional fabric choices, an ornate base, and fun trim.”
Inspired by antique furniture design, this small slipper chair studio squire for one of us The most loved living room in 2025, A small piece that packs a big punch.
(Image credit: Dave Watts)
Of course, if you’re looking for a new chair to sink into, this isn’t the style for you.
“I love incorporating vintage slipper chairs into my projects because they’re so elegant and really complement the beautiful upholstery fabrics,” says the designer. Bethany Adams. “It’s definitely for a more formal seating area. You’re not going to curl up in a slipper chair and read a book, but it’s still very comfortable guest seating.”
“I especially like the floor-length slipper chair without legs,” she suggests. “They have a more sculptural quality; formal living room. ”
The beauty of the slipper chair is that it comes in so many different looks, from vintage and glamorous, to modern and tailored styles, to skirted versions with a classic, romantic feel. Sophie Salata adds that vintage models are particularly attractive due to their thoughtful proportions and quiet craftsmanship.
“What’s really driving the resurgence of the slipper chair is how easily it fits into more relaxed and hierarchical spaces,” she added. “It works just as well alongside modern furniture as it does with vintage furniture, creating contrast without being forced.”
The designer’s beloved Perch Slipper Chair, created by Nicola Harding for her line NiX, is seen here in a mix-and-match striped combination.
(Image credit: Nicola Harding)
If the resurgence of the slipper chair has you thinking twice about awkward corners and bay windows, the good news is that there’s a style to suit almost every plan. Today’s most stylish designs range from classic skirted silhouettes reminiscent of vintage roots to cleaner, more structured versions with tailored upholstery and hidden legs.
Whether you’re drawn to timeless home decor or print-forward pieces, I’ve compiled my favorites below.
Thresholds designed using Studio McGee
vintage slipper accent chair
Proving that great design doesn’t need a hefty price tag, this Studio McGee for Target design offers timeless shape and everyday comfort. The armless silhouette and subtly curved backrest keep it compact, while the textured blue upholstery adds depth.
Lulu and Georgia
Midbelly accent chair with ocher block print
The Midbury Chair borrows from the classic roots of the Slipper Chair with its low seat and ruffled skirt. The ocher block-print fabric provides delicate pattern and depth, adding a playful accent to any cozy living room, sunroom, or bedroom.
The return of the slipper chair isn’t about bringing in more of Grandma’s favorite old pieces. In fact, it’s a revival of a forgotten silhouette, reimagined for modern schemes with fun and playful silhouettes and prints that add instant impact to a room without taking up a ton of space. And for a vintage design, it feels refreshingly new and achingly chic.