Velvet, Bouclé or Linen? A Guide to Sofa Fabric Types

When it comes to choosing the perfect sofa, style is only half the story — fabric is where comfort, durability, and personality truly come into play. At OPA Living, we offer a curated range of luxurious materials designed to suit every home and lifestyle. But which one is right for you?

Let’s break down three of the most popular sofa fabrics — Velvet, Bouclé, and Linen — to help you make the best choice for your space.

✨ Velvet: Timeless Elegance with a Touch of Drama

Best for: Luxe interiors, bold style statements, and a touch of glam.

The look: Velvet adds instant opulence. With its rich texture and depth of colour, a velvet sofa becomes the centrepiece of any room. Whether you're leaning toward jewel tones or soft neutrals, velvet brings a soft sheen that elevates your décor.

The feel: Silky-smooth and warm to the touch. Perfect for cosying up during cooler months.

Practicality: Velvet is surprisingly durable when made from high-quality polyester blends like those we use in our Kyla and Marylebone ranges. It’s great for formal living areas but may require a bit more TLC around pets or young children.

OPA tip: Pair a velvet sofa with metallic accents and plush cushions for a boutique hotel feel at home.

🧵 Bouclé: Textured, Trendy, and Incredibly Tactile

Best for: Modern minimalists, texture lovers, and design-conscious homes.

The look: Bouclé is having a serious design moment — and for good reason. Its looped, nubby surface adds softness and interest, making it a chic choice for neutral interiors or paired with organic elements.

The feel: Soft and tactile — think of it as the teddy bear of sofa fabrics. It invites lounging and layering.

Practicality: Our Cloud and Alpha ranges in Bouclé are both durable and stylish. Bouclé naturally disguises light stains and is ideal for low-traffic areas or adults-only zones.

OPA tip: Style bouclé sofas with linen throws and light oak coffee tables for a calm, Scandinavian-inspired look.

🌿 Linen: Light, Breezy, and Effortlessly Cool

Best for: Summer styling, airy spaces, and casual comfort.

The look: Linen is laid-back luxury. With its subtle texture and breathable finish, it's ideal for relaxed, coastal or bohemian-inspired interiors. Our Kona and Sienna collections offer linen-blend options in timeless tones.

The feel: Lightweight and breathable — ideal for hot summer days.

Practicality: Linen is naturally hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. It’s more prone to creasing than velvet or bouclé, but that’s part of its lived-in charm. Great for adult households or anyone looking for a fuss-free, natural aesthetic.

OPA tip: Add woven baskets, fresh greenery, and light curtains to complete the “indoors meets outdoors” vibe.

Which Fabric Is Right for You?

At OPA Living, All Fabrics Are Not Created Equal

We’ve handpicked each material not just for its beauty, but for how it performs in real homes. Whether you're designing your dream living space or simply updating your look for the new season, there's a fabric that fits your lifestyle and aesthetic.

Need help deciding?
Order your free fabric swatches here and feel the difference for yourself.