The chaise lounge is originally thought to have been a Egyptian daybed, as many examples have been found as 1st century artifacts. A long, elegant chair-like sofa, “chaise lounge” refers to any long, reclining chair in modern French. There are three primary styles of the chaise lounge, all ideal to add an air of sophistication to a room while lounging comfortably. Put your feet up and relax on these fabulous pieces:
Equally at home in either the bedroom or anywhere alternate seating might be required; the shape is more retro than either traditional or contemporary.
1. The Duchesse Brisé is a style of chaise lounge which is divided in two parts including either a chair and a long footstool, or two chairs with a stool between them.
An example of a classic The Duchesse Brisé.
Image courtesy LiveAuctioneers.com
2. The Récamier, named after French socialite, Madame Recamier, is an elegant piece of furniture with two raised ends and no side detail. Often associated with the French Neoclassical style, this chaise lounge design is ideally placed in a drawing room, versus a bedroom.
Madame Récamier lounging on the chaise lounge which was eventually named after her.
3. The Méridienne features a high head rest which slopes downward to a lower footrest. This classic chaise lounge style was most popular in the lavish homes of 19th century France, and is still just as luxurious and popular today!
The Alana Chaise in Saffron, from OneKingsLane.com
Today, designers build upon these classic silhouettes to create architectural, contemporary, elegant, and functional pieces.
The Andrew 71″ Velvet Day Chaise, Tangerine from OneKingsLane.com
This tangerine velvet chaise lounge from The Kristin Drohan Collection from One King’s Lane is so versatile; accessories and placement transform this piece from crisp and modern to soft and vintage.
Image courtesy of BakerFurniture.com
A variation of the Méridienne, this chaise lounge designed by Jacques Garcia features fine detailing in both the wood and upholstery.
Image courtesy of McGuire Furniture
Image courtesy of McGuire Furniture
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor lounging, the Harbor Chaise Lounge from McGuire Furniture is inviting and tres chic!
View my entire selection of hand-picked chaise lounge favorites on my “Chaise Lounge” Pinterest board here.