This classic fabric has been given a new lease on life in contemporary shades, modern production and minimalist pieces. Fabric expert Sigi van Niekerk shares her insight on how to use, style and care for it. 

Bouclé has come full circle – if you’ll excuse the pun. The fabric was created in the 1940s, after legendary American furniture designer Florence Knoll asked fellow designer Eero Saarinen to conceive and develop a chair she could “really curl up in”. He took the brief to heart and created not just a snug chair but also a fabric made of looped yarn woven into a soft textile. And so bouclé, taken from the French word “curled”, was born and spread across decor and fashion – including to the renowned fashion house of Coco Chanel.   

It is no secret that soft-curve furniture has been on trend for two seasons running, but the recent resurgence of minimal, 70s-inspired Italian design has brought bouclé fabric out of the mid-century house and into many more modern homes.  

This thick, dense fabric is adored for its rich texture and trademark softness. “Bouclé fabric can be woven or knitted from bouclé yarn, which is specially twisted yarn with small loops on the surface that occur at irregular intervals,” explains Sigi van Niekerk, fabric and wallpaper buyer for Hertex Fabrics. “There are different yarn compositions and different weights: very chunky or with neps (small knots or clusters) such as a Bergen Sandstone fabric.” It is usually made from wool, but can also be made using linen, cotton or silk.   

Lucky for us, 2024 has been good to this classic beauty. “There have been advances in technology and yarn developments; however, the unique look has been maintained,” says Sigi. “The trend for off-white bouclé has reached its peak, and other neutrals have moved to the fore. The new melange, or two-tone, bouclé fabrics offer newness to this look. There has also been a development where chenille is mixed with bouclé for an entirely new feel.” If you’ve yet to start exploring the myriad uses of this fabric, now is a great time to start. 

Make it work  

Bouclé folds easily and beautifully, making it an ideal fabric for upholstering curved sofas, chairs, pillows, ottomans and even headboards. “Currently, the fabric is trending for its use on soft-curve couches and for occasional seating,” says Sigi. “It is suitable for any upholstery, and there are various qualities within this, ranging from indoor fabric to outdoor options.” Don’t shy away from using it on more angular furniture: it can add a touch of warmth and comfort to even the most modern of pieces.   

Gone are the days of off-white bouclé: now, you can get it in almost any colour you like. Melange bouclé makes the fabric look even more stippled and introduces more tones to the space. “It is a great way to add texture to minimal decor schemes,” Sigi suggests. The fabric plays with light and with the loops, creating small shadows which amp up the texture and dynamism of the fabric. Take bouclé a step further by contrasting it with other pieces or accessories in a smooth fabric, such as velvet or linen, or with a smooth finish such as polished wood or stone.  

If you’re looking to add just a dash of the bouclé texture, opt for a throw, scatter cushion or occasional chair. It can even be used for curtains.  

Forever new  

“It is generally a durable fabric. A few factors influence its durability: fabric composition, Martindale rub count [how strong it is] and how the fabric is cared for… It is best to follow the care instructions provided by the supplier,” Sigi explains. Generally, it’s recommended that you vacuum the fabric regularly and use a warm, damp cloth to get rid of marks and stains. Because boucléis such a tightly woven and strong fabric, it’s unlikely that pet claws or anything else will snag on the loops and pull them out. In the same vein, pilling is also unlikely – but if it does happen, a good lint roller or fabric shaver should do the trick and make it look brand new. 

By: Christi Nortier
Photography: Bureau, Shutterstock, Getty, Pixels  

Also read: Four Savvy Home Decorating Ideas for a Tight Budget