The Best Accent Chairs to Shop Online From Amazon, West Elm, and More
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We know that furniture is meant to be functional, but where's the fun if it doesn't align with your home's unique aesthetic? In our opinion, there's something so exciting about finding a unique piece that feels like a work of art — one that you just know will make your guests say, "OMG, where did you get that from?" Accent chairs are no exception; they're perfect for styling in any room, whether complementing your bedroom furniture or leveling up your living room with extra seating.
As with all furniture, though, narrowing down thousands of accent-chair options to just one can be a real challenge. To help decide what type of design is best for your space and unique style, we tapped Cameron Johnson, CEO and founder of the furniture rental company Nickson Living, along with Anita Yokota, a therapist turned interior designer and author of "Home Therapy." Keep reading for their expert insight.
What Is an Accent Chair?
With so many different types of chairs — two popular ones being accent chairs and lounge chairs — knowing their differences isn't exactly intuitive. Accent chairs are "generally more decorative with a straight back or narrow seat," Yokota tells PS. "They're meant to be a spot to sit and talk or balance a space." Alternatively, lounge chairs often feature a "leaned-back posture and padded features, including a wider seat," she continues. "By design, they're meant to be comfortable — a place you could sit and relax." Take this with a grain of salt, though: there are plenty of comfy accent chairs, if that's what you're in the market for.
What to Look For in an Accent Chair
"In purchasing an accent chair for one's home, it's essential to consider location first and foremost," Johnson tells PS. "Will the chair be used in an empty corner to create a reading nook? Or in the bedroom as a place to slip on shoes? There are so many different accent chairs that form should follow function to ensure a great fit."
Once you've identified your accent chair's ideal function, it's time to consider its style, he adds: "The other pieces in the home surrounding the accent chair should inform its overall aesthetic." For example, if you're an art-deco aficionado with a love for unique patterns and hues, you might want to invest in an accent chair with a pop of color. Or if you live and breathe Scandinavian-chic style, perhaps a cozy, textured design works best.
And lastly, Johnson warns that not all accent chairs are comfortable because they're "not typically intended to be used for extended periods," he says. That said, if comfort is a top priority, the pro recommends thinking about how much use it will actually get. (Will people sit in it often, or will it primarily function as a decor piece?) If you nodded your head at the latter, it might not be worth driving yourself wild trying to find a design that's perfectly plush.
What Materials to Look For in an Accent Chair
"The primary consideration regarding material comes in the form of wear and tear," Johnson explains. "If the chair isn't going to be used much, then less-resilient fabrics like cotton and linen can be used versus, say, microfiber or canvas that will be more durable. Also, how much sunlight the chair will receive is an important consideration so that one does not inadvertently select a fabric prone to fading. Lastly, comfort once again comes into play, as accent chairs made of natural materials such as wood and metal, depending on how the materials are incorporated, may be less comfortable than chairs overindexing on the use of fabric and stuffing."
Ahead, we curated a list of the best and chicest accent chairs that work in any room of your home. There are options for all interior styles and choices from various online furniture retailers at different price points. Not only will these add style to your space, but having extra places for guests to sit is always a plus. From cozy bouclé accent chairs to glamorous velvet accent chairs, we're confident you'll fall in love with at least one. Peruse our top 13 picks ahead.
Experts Featured in This Article
Cameron Johnson is the CEO and founder of Nickson Living.
Anita Yokota is an interior designer and the author of "Home Therapy."
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Best Affordable Accent Chair
Unicoo Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair ($130)
For under $200, this midcentury modern accent chair is a steal. It's made of a natural rubberwood frame and beige fabric, but it also comes in a dark brown wood and gray fabric option if that's more your style.
What we love:
- This accent chair comes with a matching throw pillow to complete the look.
Who it's best for:
- It's best for people looking for a timeless accent chair that will arrive at your doorstep quickly and won't break the bank.
Who should avoid it:
- This accent chair is undeniably chic, but a few shoppers say it's not the most comfortable, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
The Details: Width: 24.5" | Height: 28.8" | Depth: 30.3" | Material: Wood and fabric | Color Options: 2
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Best Armless Accent Chair
Urban Outfitters Spencer Leather Armless Chair ($220)
This armless accent chair is an aesthetic-lover's dream, inspired by playful '80s design.
What we love:
- We love this accent chair's structured silhouette, not to mention its plush cushions.
Who it's best for:
- It's best for those looking for a unique design that's equally minimalist and statement making.
Who should avoid it:
- Not into the deep brown coloring? This style only comes in the neutral hue.
The Details: Width: 26" | Height: 30" | Depth: 27.25" | Material: PU leather, foam, steel | Color Options: 1
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Best Accent Chair With an Ottoman
Artechworks Velvet Modern Tub Barrel Arm Chair ($300)
This velvet accent chair comes with a matching ottoman so you can put your feet up to watch TV, read a book — you name it. The glamorous design comes in five colors: caramel orange (pictured here), pink, emerald green, yellow, and gray.
What we love:
- We love the vibrant hues of this accent chair.
Who it's best for:
- This accent chair is best for those looking to infuse their space with vintage-inspired glam.
Who should avoid it:
- Prefer a plush cushion to a firm one? Several shoppers note that this seat is on the harder side.
The Details: Width: 28.35" | Height: 28.35" | Depth: 28.35" | Material: Wood and metal | Color Options: 5
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Best Target Accent Chair
Threshold Higgins Sling Armchair ($270)
This sling accent chair is a top seller at Target. It features a wooden frame and seat and back cushions available in four colors: beige (pictured here), dark gray, olive green velvet, and light brown velvet. Shoppers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble (you can get the job done on your own in no time).
What we love:
- We love how this armchair not only looks good but is also backed by a bevy of five-star reviews.
Who it's best for:
- This accent chair is best for those looking for a high-quality, versatile design for under $300.
Who should avoid it:
- Searching for an accent chair with loose cushions? The bottom cushion is attached to the frame, but the back cushion is removable.
The Details: Width: 25.5" | Height: 33.5" | Depth: 29.5" | Material: Wood and polyester | Color Options: 2
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Best Upholstered Accent Chair
Threshold Designed With Studio McGee Vernon Upholstered Barrel Accent Chair ($350)
Run, don't walk, to get this upholstered accent chair while it's still in stock. The cream linen is so classic, but it also comes in other shades like light brown velvet and olive green.
What we love:
- We love how this design is part of Shea McGee's Target line.
- It's a part of a bigger collection, too.
Who it's best for:
- Have your heart set on a barrel accent chair? Target shoppers rave about this one's comfort and quality.
Who should avoid it:
- Avoid this one if you're looking for a design you can pick up in store. (This accent chair is only available on Target's website.)
The Details: Width: 29.3" | Height: 29.3" | Depth: 25.5" | Material: Wood and fabric | Color Options: 6
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Best Modern Accent Chair
Etta Avenue Isabel Upholstered Armchair ($450, originally $609)
If your home has a lot of gold accents, consider this upholstered accent chair, which has a nearly perfect five-star rating on Wayfair's website and more than 1,000 rave reviews.
What we love:
- We love this velvet armchair's open, architectural design and square gold frame.
- It arrives fully assembled.
Who it's best for:
- It's best for those who love art-deco style and out-of-the-ordinary furnishings.
Who should avoid it:
- A few shoppers noted that this chair is so big that it can almost fit two people, which is worth noting if you're looking for a smaller design.
The Details: Width: 33.5" | Height: 35.5" | Depth: 29" | Material: Wood and polyester | Color Options: 6
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Best Colorful Accent Chair
Sand & Stable Esme Upholstered Armchair ($520)
This colorful accent chair comes in a set of two, available in seven colors. The tapered legs are the perfect touch to complement the rattan arms and linen fabric upholstery.
What we love:
- We love how this chair uniquely blends rattan and solid wood with velvet upholstery.
Who it's best for:
- This armchair is best for those who love the look of cane but don't want to spend more than $1,000.
Who should avoid it:
- Looking for a specific-size chair? Be sure to pay close attention to this one's dimensions, as several shoppers noted it was smaller than expected.
The Details: Width: 24.8" | Height: 31.7" | Depth: 29.5" | Material: Rattan, wood, and polyester | Color Options: 7
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Best Swivel Accent Chair
West Elm Cozy Swivel Chair ($599-$1,698)
This swivel accent chair is both comfy and modern. It features a wide, low-slung seat and a 360-degree swivel base that's easy to move around in.
What we love:
- The shearling option evokes cozy vibes in the chicest way.
- Similar to the accent chair seen in the last slide, you can customize this one to your liking as well.
Who it's best for:
- This one's best for those who want an inviting swivel chair perfect for snuggling up on with a good book.
Who should avoid it:
- Not looking for an accent chair that swivels? Keep scrolling!
The Details: Width: 38.6" | Height: 28.7" | Depth: 35.4" | Material: Various | Color Options: 50+
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Best Barrel Accent Chair
AllModern Kearney Barrel Chair ($449, originally $779)
If you love soft, round lines, then this barrel accent chair might be your perfect match. It is wrapped in velvet and comes in four colors: blue (pictured here), light gray, blush pink, and rust.
What we love:
- We love this design's curviness, which is more pronounced than the aforementioned barrel chair.
Who it's best for:
- This accent chair is best for velvet-lovers who want to add more softness to their space.
Who should avoid it:
- Some reviewers noted that this accent chair tends to tip when you get up from it, which might dissuade some from adding it to their cart.
The Details: Width: 35.43" | Height: 29.92" | Depth: 30.7" | Material: Wood and polyester | Color Options: 7
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Best Overall Accent Chair
West Elm Isabella Chair ($799-$2,098)
Don't you just want to sink into this rounded accent chair from West Elm? Not only does it have a luxurious look and feel, but it's also made with sustainable FSC-certified wood from responsibly managed forests.
What we love:
- This accent chair comes in various colors, fabrics, and features to match your unique preferences and overall aesthetic.
Who it's best for:
- It's best for those looking for a highly customizable chair that can complement your space perfectly.
Who should avoid it:
- Avoid this accent chair if you want a design with a generous return policy. (West Elm gives you 30 days.)
The Details: Width: 28.75" | Height: 28.5" | Depth: 29.75" | Material: Various | Color Options: 50+
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Best Leather Accent Chair
Crate & Barrel Clancy Leather Accent Chair ($799, originally $999)
This leather accent chair is anything but traditional. Its welcoming contours and rich coloring pair seamlessly with the iron legs, and it's safe to say it's a midcentury-modern aficionado's dream.
What we love:
- We love this authentic leather chair's natural markings, which give it character.
Who it's best for:
- This accent chair is best for those looking for a leather design with a midcentury-modern aesthetic.
Who should avoid it:
- This popular design is currently on backorder, meaning it'll take a minimum of a few weeks before it's yours.
The Details: Width: 28" | Height: 32.75" | Depth: 30" | Material: Leather and iron | Color Options: 1
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Best Accent Lounge Chair
Blu Dot Field Lounge Chair ($1,995)
Blu Dot's lounge chairs are touted as some of the best on the market, with a classic yet modern design that provides optimal comfort with an eccentric twist. Many feature ergonomic flourishes, while others are available in a wide array of colors and fabrics. It's also an editor favorite; read our review of the Blu Dot Field Lounge Chair to learn more.
What we love:
- This accent chair comes in various colors and fabrics, so it's easy to shop out the best option for your home..
Who it's best for:
- Those living in small spaces will appreciate the comfortability provided by this minimalistic lounge chair.
Who should avoid it:
- People looking for a boxy, statement chair might do better shopping out another option elsewhere.
The Details: Width: 36" | Height: 36" | Depth: 38" | Material: Various | Color Options: 12
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— Additional reporting by Kyley Warren
Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has more than five years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, and InStyle, among others.
Kyley Warren (she/her) is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.