When shopping for upholstery, our customers have a variety of fabric and leather options to choose from, and the decision can feel quite overwhelming! Fabric and leather both have unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and practical needs. If you are on the fence between fabric and leather, here are a few tips to help you defeat decision-paralysis and find the choice that is right for you!
Comfort and lifestyle needs
When choosing between fabric or leather, consider your lifestyle first. If you like to feel cozy on your couch, fabric often feels softer and warmer than leather. Additionally, if you love bold colors or textures in your space, fabrics will have more diverse visual options. On the other hand, if your furniture needs to withstand the wear and tear of kids and pets, leather is often a more durable and easier to clean option. Leather also has the flexibility to work well in both formal and casual settings.
Consider the aesthetics and style of your space
The style of your space also plays a big role when you are deciding between leather and fabric. For example, if you are creating a casual farmhouse or bohemian styled room, fabric will lean into those aesthetics more than leather. Fabrics allow you to bring in a variety of textures, colors, and patterns typically associated with certain styles. Alternatively, if you are creating a formal space or aiming for a transitional style that blends traditional and contemporary elements, leather is a timeless, sophisticated and flexible choice.
Maintenance and longevity
Lastly, it is important to consider what type of durability you require for the upholstery in your space, as well as what kind of maintenance routine you are willing to maintain. Fabric may require more frequent cleaning and can be prone to stains; however, we do carry a variety of performance fabrics in our store than are stain resistant and liquid repellant. Leather, on the other hand, resists spills and ages beautifully, but it also requires conditioning to prevent it from cracking and drying out. It is also worth noting that if leather tears, it is possible to repair it. If fabric tears, however, it cannot typically be fixed.
Still having a hard time deciding between fabric or leather? No problem! Our knowledgeable team here at Reid’s fine furnishings are here to help you with designing the right upholstery for your space. Visit our Roanoke showroom today and let’s begin creating the space of your dreams!
