Decorating Guides
Hey, Slick: Patent Leather Glosses Up the Home
Shiny, happy walls, furniture and accessories are just a drape away when you bring in this polished and effortlessly pleasing material
Few things match the supple, mellow feel of real leather — and the best thing about patent leather is that it doesn't even try. That slick texture and plasticky shine have the unrestrained, indulgent appeal of a childhood pair of Mary Janes. And for a material that kids can't get enough of, it looks surprisingly sophisticated in the home.
These spaces interpret patent leather in fresh and unexpected ways. Which one inspires you most?
These spaces interpret patent leather in fresh and unexpected ways. Which one inspires you most?
In another room this pair of red patent leather chairs might have shouted of drama and glamour. Here they provide just enough sheen to elevate the matte surfaces in the space.
Red patent goes in an entirely different direction here. Sleek slipper chairs and a zebra-print rug create a bold, sophisticated effect.
A shiny chocolate headboard tops off this pink bonbon of a room like a dollop of hot fudge.
A sweet, stylized flower-shaped headboard goes retro chic under a veneer of white patent leather.
Patent leather–upholstered walls? Nailheads? Outrageous. A caveat: You'd need flawlessly smooth walls to make this work; with big lumps and bumps, the look would be sloppy.
Orange Leather and Linen Pillow
Timid about going full-on shiny? Start small. This neutral pillow (linen on one side, leather on the other) is trimmed in blazing orange patent for a quick hit of color and gloss.
Mirrored Bench
A rust-brown patent leather seat makes this mirrored bench worthy of a Hollywood Regency interior.
Pop Louis Side Chairs
What's more fun than a Louis-style chair upholstered in patent leather? A dash of neon color in the mix.
Patent Pendant Lamp
How swank is this pendant light? That little peek of harlequin pattern lining the inside is just too much.
Ted Baker London Ted Letter Quilted Laptop Case
If a plain black laptop bag dulls down your style, maybe this pink patent version will do the trick.