Unfortunately, winter is not over yet. While you might be tempted to just stay in bed with a blanket over your head, I’d love to introduce you to a trending piece of furniture that’s guaranteed to help up the cozy factor on freezing cold nights –shearling chairs.
Honestly, shearling chairs are not new. They have been a staple in Nordic regions for years, and now, according to interior designer Bethany Adams, the rest of us are finally catching up. However, you don’t have to be a fan of Scandinavian styles to add shearling chairs to your space. These days, you can find shearling and sherpa chairs in a multitude of styles, from laid back armchairs to fun swivel designs.
'Shearling is such a soft material that allows you to sink into it and stay warm in on cold nights,' adds Adams. 'It can be expensive, but is so worth it due to the comfort it provides.' That's to say nothing of that fact that it's a pure statement piece, too.
As H&G's new Style Editor, I've seen more than my fair share of these chairs in my years covering interiors. These are my picks of the best shearling chairs available right now.
Bethany Adams is an interior designer based in Kentucky. She is the founder of Bethany Adams Interiors.
Best shearling chairs 2024
Ideally tucked in a small reading nook or next to a crackling fireplace, this traditional wingback armchair will let you rest your tired head with ease. You can even pick your favorite color and have it made-to-order, so it can easily blend in with your space.
Go for major Scandi-chic vibes with this soft wood and cream chair, made of real shearling for a truly luxe look. The low seating makes it more on-trend than traditional.
A black shearling chair? Don’t knock it until you try it. This is a cool new take on shearling, with a tufted seat cushion and linen back and arms. This color and material combination gives the chair a sleek look, perfect for more modern homes.
Featuring a warm gray silhouette, this laidback chair was inspired by a trip to a French antiques market. True shearling made with sheepskin, the Euro style is exemplified by the hand-finished hardwood frame and dark metal legs, while the relaxed back lets you unwind in style.
The understated look the Ross chair provides makes it equally impactful in a bright living room and behind a desk in a home office. Mixed metals and woods add a modern feel, while adding sturdy construction.
For a West Coast vibe, this little lounge chair is short and sweet. Handmade in LA from wood and real shearling, it adds some interest with a boucle seat and armless look.
Another faux shearling option that does not skimp on style, this option is great for homes with kids, thanks to its easy-to-clean fabric and smaller construction. It’s a creative take on a traditional living room staple.
While this option is made with polyester sherpa, we love it because you can literally pick out any color you like, from a cool green to a funky mustard blend. It’s affordable and classic, and the metal legs add a touch of glam.
I'd almost never recommend Amazon furniture but this looks cute and is back by dozens of positive reviews. A fun swivel chair is essential, and this one truly feels like you’re sinking into the inside of a slipper. It has a leisurely look and 360-degree rotation for long, languid days.
Shearling chair FAQ
What is the difference between shearling and sherpa?
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While they are very similar fabrics, shearling and sherpa are incredibly different when it comes to price points and feel. Shearling is the skin of a sheep or lamb that has just been shorn, tanned, and cleaned, and it’s an incredibly warm material for the winter months. Sherpa is often referred to as faux shearling, and it is a synthetic material created from polyester (fleece), acrylic, or cotton. While it emulates shearling in certain ways, it is not as warm as shearling would be, and it is also less flexible and not as dense.
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