A wingback chair has a tall back with two side panels, or wings, that project forward at head height, a design that dates back to 17th-century England, when the wings shielded sitters from fireplace drafts and held in warmth. Today it suits people who want a high, supportive back for reading, anyone furnishing a traditional or transitional living room, and dining rooms that need distinctive head-of-table seats. Our range covers about 25 designs, from tufted velvet accent chairs on gold metal legs to slipcovers that refresh a chair you already own.
Classic Winged Backs vs. Modern Versions
A traditional wingback chair usually has rolled arms, turned wood legs, nailhead or button tufting and fabrics such as floral prints or solid velvet. Modern versions keep the tall winged back but simplify everything else: straight or tapered metal legs, cleaner seams, slimmer arms and bolder colors.
- Classic: button-tufted backs, curved wings, dark wood legs, florals and deep greens.
- Contemporary: smooth velvet in teal, charcoal or cream, gold or black metal legs, a narrower wing.
- Boho chic: patterned prints, light wood and playful colors, including the occasional leopard print.
Mixing styles is common. A modern wingback in cream velvet sits well beside a traditional sofa, and a floral print can be the single pattern in an otherwise plain room.
Wingback Dining Chairs and Host Chairs
Several listings are dining versions, often sold as host chairs for the ends of a table, and some come in chair sets. A wingback dining chair has a seat height around 18 to 19 inches and a back tall enough to stand out above the tabletop. Upholstered wingback dining designs are more comfortable than wood side chairs for long meals, but they are wider; make sure your table ends have enough room, about 24 to 28 inches of width per chair plus space to pull it out.
Recliners and Swivel Wingbacks
The tall winged back is a natural match for a recliner, because it supports the head when the chair tilts. A wingback recliner chair looks like a formal armchair when upright, which helps it blend into a living room better than a bulky recliner. A few designs turn on a swivel base as well. If rotation matters most, our swivel accent chairs collect every turning model.
Stretch Slipcovers for Winged Armchairs
The entry-priced items here are stretch slipcovers that fit over an existing winged armchair. Covers like these protect upholstery from pets and kids and let you change color seasonally. Measure the chair's back height, seat width and arm style before ordering, since stretch covers fit a range of sizes but not every shape; very deep wings or rolled arms may need a cover made for that profile.
How to Size a Winged Armchair
These chairs are taller than most accent chairs, often around 40 to 45 inches at the top of the back. Check:
- Back height against windows, art and wall sconces behind the chair.
- Seat depth: around 20 to 22 inches suits most adults. Petite sitters may prefer a less deep seat so their feet stay flat.
- Width at the wings: the wings can make the chair wider at the top than at the seat; measure both if it is going into a tight corner.
Small versions exist for apartments and bedrooms. For a shorter, rounder alternative, look at our barrel chairs. If you want two matching chairs for a fireplace or a sofa grouping, browse accent chairs set of 2, and see the full accent chairs range for other silhouettes.
Prices Across the Wingback Range
Prices start under $15 for a slipcover and reach about $1,330 per item for larger upholstered pieces. Most chairs fall between roughly $215 and $590, with a typical price near $425. More than 90% of the collection is in stock.
Looking After Velvet and Tufted Upholstery
Velvet should be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment in the direction of the pile, and crushed spots can be lifted with a little steam. Tufted backs collect dust in the buttons; a crevice tool or soft brush clears it. Blot spills, never rub, and test cleaners on a hidden area. Keep winged chairs a little away from radiators and direct sun to protect color.
Wingback Chair FAQ
Why do wingback chairs have wings?
The wings were originally designed to block drafts and trap heat from a fireplace. Today they mostly offer head and shoulder support and give the chair its distinctive outline.
Is a wingback accent chair comfortable for reading?
Yes, it is one of the best shapes for reading because the tall back supports your head and the wings let you lean to one side. Pair it with a floor lamp and a small side table.
Does velvet on a winged chair work in a modern room?
Definitely. Solid velvet in teal, green, charcoal or cream on slim metal legs reads as modern while keeping the classic shape. Gold legs add a glam touch.
Do stretch covers fit any winged chair?
No. Stretch covers fit a range of sizes, but check the back height, seat width and arm shape listed for each cover against your chair before buying.
Are tufted designs harder to clean?
Slightly, since dust gathers around the buttons. A weekly pass with a soft brush attachment keeps them clean. Spot clean spills with a mild upholstery cleaner after testing it out of sight.