5 Fainting Couches to Bring Some Victorian Flair
The Best Fainting Sofas You Never Knew You Wanted
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
Maybe it's because we just finished the most recent season of "Bridgerton" or maybe it's because we're in the mood for something new, but furniture with a Victorian flair has been catching our eye recently. That's why when we were recently sofa shopping online, we couldn't help but investigate one trend people are into right now: a fainting couch. What exactly is a fainting couch? It's a vintage-looking, Victorian-inspired piece from the 19th century, when women often fainted from wearing too tight of corsets. They would have these lounge-like chaises in their rooms as a place to recover after dressing or undressing.
Most of these styles feature a curved back, tufted cushions, and cool unique legs to finish them off. But these days, they come in a number of more modern silhouettes you can shop. If you're inspired to add a fainting sofa to your home, we made shopping for one easy. We curated a list of options, so all you have to do is think about your needs.
What to Look For When Buying a Fainting Couch
First and foremost — and this goes for any furniture-piece investment — measure your space. Depending on your room size, you can then determine the inches and shape you're looking for. Then think about the material: do you want something durable like polyester, or are you committing to the vintage look with a velvet piece? Lastly, the price always plays a key role. We found a number of choices ranging from designer finds to chic finds on Wayfair.
Our personal favorite is the Sarvis Tufted Chaise Lounge ($560) for its traditional look.
The Best Fainting Couch: Sarvis Tufted One Arm Left-Arm Chaise Lounge
The Sarvis Tufted One Arm Left-Arm Chaise Lounge ($560) is our favorite for its authentic, undeniable Victorian look. Its roundup back, tufted seat, and cool shape give it that 19th century look these couches are famous for.
What we love:
- The affordable choice comes in a handful of pretty colors, but we adore this blue.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants something vintage looking at a great price.
- The smaller model fits perfectly into small spaces.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're looking for a larger option, this small silhouette might not be for you.
The Details: Width: 64" | Height: 33.5" | Depth: 31" | Upholstery: Velvet | Color Options: 3
The Best Plush Fainting Couch: Pottery Barn Carlisle Upholstered Chaise Lounge
Looking for a choice that is less traditional looking yet more plush? Then go for the Pottery Barn Carlisle Upholstered Chaise Lounge ($1,599). While it has more of a chaise silhouette, it still offers the same look and feel in a more updated look. Plus, it comes in a large assortment of colors and fabrics to shop.
What we love:
- The plush choice is made with cozy cushions.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants an updated look that still has a lounge-like silhouette.
- The super-cozy cushions make it perfect for sitting back and reading a book on.
Who should avoid it:
- If you're set on the more traditional style, look for more vintage-inspired pieces.
The Details: Width: 68" | Height: 34" | Depth: 34" | Upholstery: Various | Color Options: 20+
The Best Large Fainting Couch: APT2B Samson Sofa Lounger
Go for a larger version with the APT2B Samson Sofa Lounger ($2,048). The comfy shape is the size of most sofas but has that fainting shape. While it offers a modern and updated look, it's more versatile for a living space. The brand offers it in a number of fabrics and shades, so you can customize your very own option. You can even choose it in three different leg finishes.
What we love:
- The stylish couch is made for a living space and not just as extra seating.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a larger option that goes beyond just decor.
- The customizable option comes in so many options, so you can create your dream couch.
Who should avoid it:
- When you custom order a piece, it might take up to four weeks, so maybe not the best choice if you're in a rush.
The Details: Width: 84" | Height: 28" | Depth: 37" | Upholstery: Various | Color Options: 20+
The Best Affordable Fainting Couch: Schramm Round Arm Sofa Chaise
If you're on the lookout for a more affordable option, we're into this Schramm Round Arm Sofa Chaise ($340) from Wayfair. It offers a sleek look with the tradition fainting shape, and we adore it in the light pastel shade.
What we love:
- The pastel piece is stylish and modern.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants a more modern look and an affordable find.
- The smaller shape makes it the perfect size for a bedroom, closet, or corner space.
Who should avoid it:
- If you want a more luxe statement piece, try something with a more traditional look.
The Details: Width: 57.7" | Height: 23.6" | Depth: 28.3" | Upholstery: Linen | Color Options: 2
The Best Modern Fainting Couch: Lulu and Georgia Vivi Tête-à -Tête Chaise
We know, most fainting couches have that traditional look. But just in case you wanted that cool shape with a modern and minimal look, we have you covered. The Lulu and Georgia Vivi Tête-à -Tête Chaise ($5,698) is the new look for these silhouettes, and we can't help but love the versatility of it.
What we love:
- The modern and minimal piece is the perfect statement maker.
Who it's best for:
- This couch is great for someone who wants that fainting shape but with a totally new look.
- The modular pieces can be moved around, making it versatile and cool.
Who should avoid it:
- This designer piece is on the pricier side and not a great match for someone who wants something affordable.
The Details: Width: 111" | Height: 32" | Depth: 37" | Upholstery: Polyester and Cotton | Color Options: 1
