A wingback is one of the most recognisable shapes in upholstery: a high back with “wings” that curve forward at either side. It looks timeless in almost any room, but not every wingback suits every space or every person. This guide walks through what to think about before you choose one.
What is a wingback chair?
A wingback chair has a tall back and side panels, the wings, that extend forward from it. Traditionally the shape is associated with fireside seating, where the wings helped shield the sitter from draughts. Today the appeal is as much about comfort and presence as warmth: the wings frame your shoulders, make the chair feel enclosed and settled, and give it a strong silhouette in a room.
Choose the shape that fits your style
Wingbacks range from traditional shapes with rolled arms and a generous, deep-set feel to cleaner, more contemporary lines. Think about the rest of the room. A traditional shape suits a period home or a layered, classic scheme, while a slimmer profile can sit comfortably in a modern space. You can compare the shapes side by side in our wingback chairs and read more about our bespoke wingback armchairs.
Think about where it will go
Because of the high back, a wingback is more of a statement than a standard armchair. A reading corner, the end of a bedroom, a bay window or a quiet spot beside a fireplace all work well. Remember to check how the back will look from the other side of the room, especially if the chair will not sit against a wall.
Allow at least 45cm of clearance around the chair so it is easy to walk around, and measure the doorways and hallways it needs to pass through on the way in. Our measuring guide shows how. Short on space? Read how to choose an armchair for a small room.
Comfort comes first
A wingback should feel good to sit in for a long time, so think about how you will use it. For long reading sessions, a supportive back and a seat that lets your feet rest flat on the floor matter more than looks. If you can, sit in one before you commit. Our York studio is open by appointment if you would like to try our chairs.
Choosing the right fabric
The tall back and wings expose a lot of fabric, so your choice makes a big difference to how the chair looks. A strong pattern can be dramatic across a wingback, while a plain weave or a soft velvet lets the shape do the talking. For a chair that will be used every day, look for a hard-wearing fabric. As a rough guide, upholstery fabrics rated at around 25,000 rubs or more on the Martindale test are suited to heavy domestic use.
Our guide to choosing fabric for an armchair covers durability, and our bouclé vs velvet comparison helps if you are torn between textures. Whatever you are considering, order free fabric samples first and look at them in your own light at different times of day.
Don’t forget the legs
The leg colour changes the whole feel of a chair. Darker legs give a more traditional look, while lighter legs feel softer and more relaxed. You choose your leg colour alongside your fabric before the chair is made.
Wingback chair questions
Are wingback chairs comfortable?
Yes, when the proportions suit you. The high back supports your head and shoulders, and the wings add a sense of enclosure that many people find relaxing. Comfort depends on seat height, depth and back angle, so it is worth trying one in person if you can.
Do wingback chairs suit small rooms?
They can. A single wingback in a corner or bay window adds character without taking over, provided you leave enough clearance around it. Measure first.
How long does a made-to-order wingback take?
Our chairs are made to order and take 10–12 weeks from order confirmation. Our guide to how long a bespoke armchair takes explains why, and how much a bespoke armchair costs covers pricing.
Find your wingback
Every Occasional Chairs wingback is designed in York and handcrafted in Nottingham, made to order in your choice of designer fabric. Browse our wingback chairs, or order free fabric samples to start planning yours.