Chaise longues were designed for society’s upper crust.
While they were popularised in 16th century France, the design dates back to around 3000 BC. Archaeologists discovered the long chair in Ancient Egyptian tombs. While modern-day iterations may not feature opulent ivory detailing and have shed their purpose as a horizontal way to enjoy meals, they are still a hugely desirable addition to your living or bedroom.
The chairs’ luxurious connotations are bolstered by their reclining silhouette, long base and low design. Due to their expensive construction and rarity, chaise longues became a symbol of social status during the Rococo period, a time marked by opulent decor and ornamentation.
Alongside their exclusive reputation, chaise longues are closely associated with psychology. You’d be hard-pressed not to witness an on-screen therapy scene where the client isn’t woefully reclined on a chaise longue.
In fact, it was the godfather of philosophy himself, Sigmund Freud, who introduced the use of chaise longues into the practice of psychoanalysis. It was believed that this would encourage the client to speak more freely, as the psychotherapist would sit out of direct view of the chaise longue. Freud's own chaise longue can be seen in the Freud Museum in London, if you fancy a cultural day out.
There are three main types of chaise longue, which have traditionally been used to enhance the interior of a shared living room or positioned as a boudoir chair in the bedroom. They include:
- Duchesse brisée: The 'broken duchess' describes a chaise longue that is divided into two parts; the chair and a long footstool.
- Récamier: A récamier showcases two raised ends and nothing lining the long sides. It is often linked with the French neoclassical style and is named after society hostess Madame Récamier - who posed on a récamier for a portrait painted in 1800 by revered artist Jacques-Louis David.
- Méridienne: A méridienne features a high headrest, and a lower footrest, joined by a sloping piece. Méridiennes are used as asymmetrical day-beds and were particularly popular in the grand houses of 19th-century France.
A chaise lounge operates much in the same way as an accent or armchair; to bring a luxury feel to your boudoir. If you have the space, you can create a cosy reading nook or it can act as simply a surface to temporarily store outfit of the day rejects before they return to the wardrobe or into your laundry basket.
Contemporary chaise longues can be modular in design to connect to a larger sofa, offer additional storage capabilities or standalone to bring elegance to your interiors. There are asymmetrical designs for those who prefer a sideways recline as well as symmetrical constructions with both a head and footrest for sprawling on your back or front..
Discover the best chaise longues up for grabs and shop the edit below. Sit back, relax and bathe in an air of nonchalance and pensive thought while you sit all day long on the chaise longue.
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Rockett St George Moss Green Velvet Swivel Chaise Chair
Dimensions: W60cm x H82cm x L165cm
Ahh now that's more like it. This chaise has users reclining back in a supremely comfortable S-shape, making it an ideal TV chair.
Wrapped in plush velvet, the moss green shade adds an element of sophistication. The best bit? It swivels too.
Buy now £1695.00, Rockett St George
Oliver Bonas Pambo Cobalt Blue Velvet Lounge Chair
If the electric blue colour doesn't grab you, the prospect of evenings of comfortable seating will. This modern lounger offers a young, playful feel that's all about the curves. The sculptural piece will look at home in the bedroom, living room or study as a spot to kick back and relax.
Buy now £595.00, Oliver Bonas
Fairmont Park Loretta Upholstered Chaise Longue
Personalise your home and choose the colour and texture of your dream chaise long. This failsafe rendition by Fairmont Park can be designed in a myriad of tempting tones, from sea green to lilac and more. Recline on the linen exterior and watch the day roll by.
Buy now £539.99, Wayfair
Beliani Left Hand Chaise Lounge Velvet Teal NIMES
Adorn this chaise longue with cushions galore and curate a dreamy reading corner. A fabulous addition to larger spaces in need of a zhuzh, the elegant piece is a mid-range pick to impress.
Buy now £299.00, B&Q
Happy Barok Carmel 2 Seater Velvet Sofa
Dimensions: H67 x W170 x D80cm
Available in four sizes and five colours, this chic velvet sofa shows off its style credentials from the off. The chaise-style sofa can comfortably accommodate two adults, but we're picturing it as a lounging space for one. While it will work nicely as an anchor in the living room, if you have space, this will be fireworks in the bedroom.
Buy now £979.99, Wayfair
Penelope Green Chaise Longue
Inject your home with a bolt of luxury. The Penelope green chaise longue, available to purchase on pre-loved marketplace 1stDibs, is an undeniably chic choice. Admire the curved silhouette of the chartreuse item, which is complemented by a beechwood structure, traditional button tufting and slanted legs.
Buy now £3334.60, 1stDibs
Cleopatra Daybed Chaise Longue
Modernise your pad with a stunning Cleopatra daybed in a soft shade of lilac. The piece features a curved shape with a gentle purple velour finish and buttoned upholstered fabric. Meet your home’s unique new focal point.
Buy now £2500.12, 1stDibs
Darlings of Chelsea Sloane Chaise
Snuggle down in the cushioned folds of the Sloane Chaise by Darlings of Chelsea. A generously sized piece that doubles up as a sofa for smaller spaces, the dark teal velvet seat is a refined yet comfort-forward investment.
Buy now £1386.00, Darlings of Chelsea
Sofas & Stuff Anglesey Chaise
There's no missing this chaise wrapped in bright ikat patterned upholstery. The fabric makes the period-inspired piece look more contemporary. Add it to a lounge, bedroom or in the hallway as a seat to put on shoes.
Buy now £2615.00, Sofas & Stuff
