SlipCovers 101

by Gail McCauley

Although furnishing “covers” have been a common household item for more than a century, todays slipcovers possess the ability to make a dramatic fashion statement. The antithesis of “Grandma’s slipcovers” which were most often uncomfortable and unattractive, contemporary slipcovers offer a wealth of innovative patterns and colors. Slipcovers are designed in the most sought after, easy care fabrics to accommodate a wide range of styles of seating. To understand how “you”, the consumer can benefit from the advantages of slipcovers your home today, it is necessary to examine the “where”, “what” and “whys” of this very versatile product.

Slipcovers are not just for sofas! Companies exist today that produce ready made slipcovers for several forms of popular seating. Loveseats, club chairs and ottomans, wing chairs, recliners and dining chairs all can benefit from the addition of a fashionable slipcover. Rather than spending a substantial financial investment for new seating, reupholstering or custom slipcovers; ready made slipcovers offer consumers an affordable solution for a quick and stylish furnishing cover up.

Consider a fashionable slipcover for any number of reasons. Ideal for growing families with young children and pets, slipcovers protect favored furnishings from soiling and everyday wear and tear. With an increasing number of families owning vacation homes, slipcovers offer the option of shopping consignment stores, flea markets and yard sales with the assurance that it is possible to slipcover second hand furnishings and coordinate with existing décor, regardless of established fabrics, patterns and colors.

A rainbow of todays most preferred colors makes seasonal decorating thoughout your home a snap with slipcovers! Spring 2001 sports an abundance of subdued and muted neutrals such as soft khakis, faint terracottas, and pale taupes.

Crisp whites with navy trim offer the essence of the nautical theme for the coastal homes as well as the upcoming Summer months.

Or, contribute to a particular style of décor such as Southwestern, Country, Traditional, Shabby Chic, or Victorian with appropriate slipcover fabrications and design motifs. Slipcovers featuring lush fushia and pink hues are wonderfully romantic in a Victorian styled home. Florals consisting of washed colorations on pale backgrounds feature a lovely choice for a Shabby Chic styled space. Look for slipcovers in the most sought after fabrications such as sturdy denims, soft faux suedes, warm chenilles, and classic cottons.

	Loveseats, club chairs and ottomans, wing chairs, recliners and dining chairs all can benefit from the addition of a fashionable slipcover.
Crisp whites with navy trim offer the essence of the nautical theme for the coastal homes.

Consider incorporating the advantages that slipcovers offer throughout your home. Do not overlook practical opportunities to incorporate the durability, comfort and character that slipcovers provide in unexpected spaces! For instance, explore the possibility of slipcovering a “hand me down” chair for your sunroom, formal chairs in the dining room, a set of mis-matched chairs in the kitchen, a well loved club chair and ottoman in the family room, a soiled recliner in the basement or a treasured chaise in the master bedroom suite.

Search for ready made slipcovers via catalogs, online and in retail establishments. Then transform your homes interior into livable and unique spaces with todays stylish slipcovers!