Difficult Choices: Is a Leather Sofa or Fabric For You?

Buying a new couch that is both comfortable and high quality can be a daunting task. In addition to deciding the size—a sectional sofa may not be the best for a small space that a vintage inspired loveseat could fit well in—a style and a fabric or leather covering also needs to be selected. Though a lot of these selections come down to personal taste, there are some things to consider before selecting either a fabric couch or a leather couch for your home.

Leather Is Durable, Luxurious and Can Last A Lifetime

Leather really is the gold star sofa covering when it comes to durability. Leather is a natural material that is well known for getting even more beautiful as it ages. It becomes even softer and more pliable over long years of use without losing durability. This means that if you have kids or pets, a top-grain leather couch may be the best choice for your home. The leather that is used in top-grain leather sectionals and sofas can be specially treated so that they are particularly resistant to both pet scratches and spilled drinks.

When looking at leather, an Italian leather couch is going to be made of some of the highest quality leather out there. Strong, supple and buttery soft, a sofa made of top-grain leather will elevate a space to add a touch of sophistication and class. Not to mention, a leather sofa is always in style. Whether you choose a leather loveseat, a leather reclining sectional or just an accent chair, the piece will be a welcome addition to your space regardless of how styles change over the years.

The Versatility of Fabric Will Suit A Variety of Tastes 

Though leather is an excellent choice, it isn’t for everyone. Whether you prefer not to use animal products or are looking for a more economical option, fabric sofas can offer a variety of colors and textures that leather just can’t compete with. Ranging from the luxurious to utilitarian, fabric couches come in many options to suit any budget and lifestyle. Velvet, boucle, and cloud fabric sofas are some sumptuous options that will add a touch of elegance as well as coziness to any space.

Fabric couches can also be a great option if you have members of your household that are harder on furniture than others. If you need a fabric sectional or accent sofa that can put up with everything that life has to offer, there are also modern and performance fabrics that are treated to be especially resistant to spills and tears. One of the great things about fabric is that there are nearly endless options that run from simple and clean to luxurious and plush. 

Don’t be Afraid to Mix and Match Fabric and Leather Couches

Not sure if a fabric sofa or a leather couch is a better option for you? Why not both? The beauty of the myriad of options of colors and finishes available for both fabric and leather furniture means that you can put either or both in your space to make it your own. Love the softness of velvet and the richness of leather? Why not try pairing a soft and supple leather sofa with a luxurious velvet fabric accent chair? Or if you prefer clean neutrals, how about, a white fabric sofa paired with a warm tan leather accent chair. The beauty of designing your own space is that you get to pick what works best for you, whether it needs to be dog-proof, child-proof, or simply spark joy.