5 Graphic Fabrics for When Plain Just Won’t Cut It

Best graphic fabrics 2021
Courtesy of Pierre Frey

Let’s face it: most furniture gets upholstered in solid fabrics. Whether it’s crisp snow-white linen or deep brown velvet, textures often outshine patterns, especially with larger pieces like corner sectionals and California king headboards. But there’s no denying that a bright floral chaise or a tailored plaid tuxedo sofa can make a room shine like plain pieces can’t. Besides, there are so many stunning patterns out there, it would be a shame to only ever check the “solid” box when searching for the perfect upholstery textiles. So here’s to bold choices: these are just a few of our favorite recent graphic fabrics we think you should definitely try.

Clarence House’s Monier Silk Velvet

Part zebra, part subtle plaid, Clarence House’s Monier Silk Velvet is lush in the best possible way. Its deep burgundy hue is complex like a fine wine and would pair beautifully with an accent chair in a moody den or office.

Pierre Frey’s Otti

A tribute to the Bauhaus, Pierre Frey’s Otti is an eye-catching jacquard of checks woven with virgin wool with soft and comfortable reliefs. It’s subtle enough to blend into a larger sofa or sectional, but not enough to be forgotten.

Schumacher’s Wave Velvet

Schumacher’s Wave Velvet isn’t your average graphic print. The groovy cut velvet was inspired by 1970s Pierre Cardin and Yves Saint Laurent designs. Just picture it as a showstopping headboard.

Lee Jofa’s Lawrence Velvet

A playful take on the checkered trend with a racer-stripe vibe, Lee Jofa’s Lawrence Velvet feels equally timeless and modern. Can you imagine it as a large skirted ottoman in the heart of a family room?

Brunschwig & Fils’ Les Chevrons

This colorway of Brunschwig & Fils’ Les Chevrons—part of the Les Ensembliers collection—is so light, it’s almost cloudlike. Soften the landing of an entryway, staircase, or primary suite with a bench or settee upholstered in this fresh take on the classic chevron.

Which of these graphic fabrics would you pick and what would you design with it?



0 replies on “5 Graphic Fabrics for When Plain Just Won’t Cut It”