Maybe it's because we just finished the most recent season of "Bridgerton [1]" 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 [2], 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 [3], tufted cushions, and cool unique legs to finish them off. But these days, they come in a number of more modern silhouettes [4] 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 [5]? Lastly, the price always plays a key role. We found a number of choices ranging from designer finds [6] to chic finds on Wayfair [7].
Our personal favorite is the Sarvis Tufted Chaise Lounge [8] ($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 [9] ($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 [10] ($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 [11] ($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 [12] ($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 [13] ($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