You’ve been looking at home décor magazines, and you have decided to spruce up your space with the addition of an accent chair. But now that you’ve made that choice, how do you choose exactly which one?

Accent chairs can vary widely in style, materials and construction, so it can be challenging to pin down just one style to choose from. Wingback, scalloped, modern, and traditional – there are SO many types to choose from. And that’s before you’ve even thought about color and fabric.

So, if you’re finding it hard to choose, let’s go over a few things to consider when selecting the perfect accent chair for your home and lifestyle.

Finding the Right Size

Accent chairs are often smaller than , recliners, so while it may be tempting to purchase just purchase one on sight, you will want to measure your space first to make sure it will fit.

Measuring first means there are no surprises and that it fits in with the rest of your room without taking up too much floor space or being lost in a large area. If you get one that is too big for your living room, not only will it look odd, but it can make it tricky to use the room in general. For those with a smaller living space, consider a smaller mid-century style accent chair to update the room.

First, find the spot in your home that you want your accent chair to be located in. Consider things like the light, ease of access if it’s placed there, and how full the room is already configured with furniture. And then, when you’ve selected the perfect room and spot, measure the space considering the space around it. Don’t forget to measure twice, just to make sure.

Current Décor

One thing to consider is the design and feel of the room you are placing the accent chair in.

If your room is very modern, you may want to choose an equally modern accent chair with a clean-cut and form. If the rest of the décor has curved lines or round edges, then perhaps go for a curved accent chair that follows suit.

However, the beauty of an accent chair is that it doesn’t have to match the decor. In fact, the more dramatic the difference, the more significant the impact.

So, suppose your room is filled with wood and other natural materials. In that case, a striking leather accent chair with chrome detailing may be a unique feature that brings the room together. Or, alternatively, if your room is minimalist, then a comfy, suede-style chair will give a dash of cozy, plus an ottoman will offer the luxury of being able to put your feet up.

While buying accent chairs can dramatically change a space, it’s important to try and visualize precisely how it’s going to look and work in a room before you purchase.

It’s great to think outside the box when selecting. Still, it’s essential to consider exactly why you are choosing this particular type of furniture in your home. Is it a style you particularly love?

Does it have a feature that you’ve always wanted? If you’re not sure, then get some opinions from your family and friends as well.

Colors & Print

Another factor to consider is the color and print of your accent chair.

The options here are endless, and it’s very much down to personal choice. However, if you know what works best for your décor, make sure to take that into consideration when browsing accent chairs. For example, bright colors can work exceptionally well in a modern space. In contrast, a traditional feel would lend itself to neutral-toned chairs.

Also, makes sure to take into consideration the print and patterns on there. While it may be fun to opt for pop art, vividly colored images, if the rest of your space is covered in florals, it may feel a bit overwhelming once it’s in place.

A great way to look at contrasting colors and if it’ll work in your space is to look at a color wheel to find colors that are opposite but complement each other. There’s plenty to play with: Teal and mustard yellow, orange and blue, and pink and green.

Materials & Fabric

You may have seen some really stylish accent chairs in magazines and online but be unsure what the material is.

When you find something that you like, look at different textures and figure out if it will work with the rest of your room. If there are other materials around, then opt for something matching or contrasting depending on the look you are going for.

One thing to keep in mind when selecting a material is its ease of care and longevity.

For example, velvet is a gorgeous, luxurious material and is perfectly soft against the skin. But if you have a young family with children that tend to spill and make messes, it may not be the most ideal fabric to try and clean up after a toddler emergency. Consider an accent chair with a removable cover as an alternative.

On the other hand, Leather accent chairs are a much more durable option and will last you for years. In fact, many leather chairs look better the more they are used, developing an aged look that is impossible to recreate without love, attention, and plenty of sitting down.

Chair Shape & Features

Some of the most popular styles of accent chairs are the swivel chair, wingback chair, or even an armless chair with ottoman.

Not only do they look great, but the swivel armchair is also perfect for smaller spaces and can also double up as an office chair.

Armless chairs are great in a living room or den. They provide ample space to stretch out and relax while being comfortable enough to curl up with a book or take some time out.

Wingback chairs are a traditional piece that is perfect for a formal space such as the living room. Despite their regal appearance, they can also be easily dressed up with throws and even pillows to make it cozy.

There are plenty of things to consider when choosing an accent chair. The best way is to set out a clear idea of what you want and need from the piece. Having this information ready to hand will make it easier to select a piece quicker and with more certainty than just browsing. Whatever you choose, though, an accent chair is the perfect way to bring an extra bit of coziness, or even glamour, to your home.