5 Facts You Didn't Know About Bouclé, the Cozy Mid-Century Furniture Material That Has Made a Comeback Today
Bouclé is having a major design moment right now, popping up everywhere from stylish sofas to cozy accent chairs. But this textured fabric carries a history that’s as intriguing as its unique feel. As a Design Hipstorian, I’m all about uncovering the stories behind the materials that make a space come alive. Let’s dive into five fun facts you probably didn’t know about bouclé, including a surprising nod to its mid-century roots!
1. Bouclé's Origins Date Back to Mid-Century Modern Design
While bouclé may seem like a modern trend, it has actually been a staple in mid-century modern design since the 1940s and 1950s. Iconic designers like Eero Saarinen and Florence Knoll famously used bouclé for their furniture creations, taking advantage of its unique texture to add depth and comfort. The fabric’s signature look, with its looped and knotted yarns, became synonymous with the clean, organic lines of mid-century aesthetics.
2. The Word 'Bouclé' Comes From French, Meaning 'Curled' or 'Looped'
The term "bouclé" is derived from the French word for “curled” or “looped,” referring to the fabric’s signature looped yarns. This looped texture gives bouclé its distinctive, cozy appearance and adds a tactile element that feels both luxurious and inviting. The unique loops can vary in size, creating a range of textures from tight and subtle to big and bold, making bouclé an adaptable choice for many design styles.
3. Bouclé Is Typically Made from Wool, Though Blends Are Common
Bouclé is traditionally made from wool, which gives it its warm, soft, and slightly stretchy feel. However, modern bouclé can also include blends of other fibers like cotton, polyester, or even silk. These blends can make the fabric more durable, versatile, and budget-friendly while maintaining the classic looped texture that bouclé is famous for.
4. Bouclé Was a Favorite in Victorian and Art Deco Interiors Before the Mid-Century Modern Boom
Long before bouclé became synonymous with mid-century modern style, it was a popular choice in both Victorian and Art Deco interiors. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bouclé's rich texture and warmth made it a luxurious fabric for upholstered chairs and settees in elegant Victorian parlors. Later, during the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s, bouclé’s unique loops were used to add a sense of opulence and sophistication to high-end furniture pieces, setting the stage for its mid-century modern revival.
5. Chanel Made Bouclé a Fashion Icon Before It Took Over Home Décor
Long before bouclé became a staple in home décor, it was synonymous with high fashion—thanks to Coco Chanel. In the 1950s, Chanel popularized bouclé in her iconic tweed suits, creating a signature look that combined elegance with texture. This connection to fashion has made bouclé a timeless fabric, beloved by both interior designers and fashionistas alike. Its cozy, looped texture offers a sense of luxury that transcends both wardrobes and living rooms.
Bringing Bouclé Into Your Home
Ready to add some bouclé magic to your space? At HouseNovel Shop, we offer a range of era-inspired furniture that includes this timeless fabric. Explore our collection to find the perfect bouclé piece that combines style, comfort, and durability, and let it transform your home into a cozy haven!
Leave a comment