Dress Up Your Old Sofa With a New Slipcover

Admit it: Thinking of slipcovers can conjure images of your grandmother's ill-fitting, ruffled throws. But today’s slipcovers offer many options and great style without having to fork out big bucks for new furniture. Even better, there’s no need to spend time spot-cleaning before company arrives. Just toss the slipcover in the washer, and weeks of spills and dirt wash away.

You can find them at most department and home-goods stores, or shop online at sites that specialize in slipcovers such as Surefit or StretchandCover.com. Just keep a few things in mind as you navigate the many design choices.

Fabric
Consider your lifestyle and overall plan for the room. If you have indoor pets or young children, a cotton-polyester blend is a good bet. It’s durable, machine washable and generally budget-friendly. If you prefer a super-snug fit, look for one with spandex. Just remember, as when washing your clothes, some shrinking, stretching and fading is inevitable over time.

Style
When it comes to color, pattern and texture, there are no rules. If you like to tweak your interiors with the change of the season, consider changing out your slipcovers, too. If a full sofa wardrobe is not in your budget, it’s best to stick with neutrals.Your sofa will remain in style year-round, and you can broaden your color palette with throw pillows, accessories and wall color.

A slipcover's skirt says a lot about its style, so choose wisely. A straight skirt works well with most styles, from traditional to modern to cottage. If you prefer a more tailored look, opt for a pleated skirt or no skirt at all.Today’s updated ruffled slipcovers help achieve a romantic, shabby-chic or French country look.

Many online retailers offer fabric swatches for a minimal fee. If you need further design direction, hire a professional. A good interior designer will marry your style preferences with knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. Custom-made, designer slipcovers aren’t cheap, however, and most likely will be dry clean only. It might be more practical just to buy new furniture.

Fit
No matter how stylish a new slipcover may be, improper fit can ruin your overall look. Be sure to measure your furniture carefully before shopping. A semi-custom fit is the most professionally inspired slipcover choice. These offer separate seat-cushion covers and great style for not much more money. If you choose to buy a drape-style cover, proper tucking is important. Pull the fabric tightly, then use fabric pins, or in some cases patented clips, to hold the slipcover in place.

My husband and I have had the same green sofa for 10 years. We considered buying a replacement, but settled on some new threads instead — a fabulous chocolate-brown, polyester-blend slipcover. We haven’t sacrificed fashion, comfort or money. It dresses up our sofa, whether we’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual day at home.

We got the look we wanted without sacrificing comfort or a few paychecks. A makeover that saves money and fits our family’s personal style — now that’s always in fashion.