Once meant only for elegant Victorian boudoirs, the slipper chair has come to its own as a design element for side chairs, cozy reading areas, even as a more stylish desk chair. So just what is a slipper chair?
Historic versus modern
In 18th-century European homes, the wide, low, armless chairs graced the rooms of ladies wearing heavy layers of petticoats, tightly laced corsets, and other constricting clothing. For a handmaid to reach their lady’s feet to put on a shoe or slipper became nearly impossible. So, the invention of the slipper chair was one of necessity, allowing ladies’ maids to help them don footwear.
In the 20th century, American designer Billy Baldwin brought the chair from the bedroom to the living room and now, variations on this iconic style appear in designs from the bedroom to the boardroom. Different from elaborately carved legs and tufted back, the modern versions are simple, unadorned pieces that play well with other furniture or work on their own to fill a quiet nook.
These days, slipper chairs come in all designs from tufted and buttoned to gusseted with bright piping to elaborately embroidered peplums. And, with a more masculine take on the modern look, some come with massive wooden platform bases or sleek metal legs.
Popular Versions
Whatever your version of the slipper chair, know its design is for modern living. Pair it with a comfy sofa or line up three sleek current versions instead of a couch for flexible seating. And if you have the ideal slipper chair but don't have the perfect place for it, maybe it's time that you find a new place, so check with your real estate professional to see that perfect home for your perfect chair.