For several years now leather has taken a backseat to fabric, but could leather be making a comeback? The myriad of options that are available with fabric and the ease with which it can be reupholstered may have taken it to the top with homeowners, but leather is making a formidable run in the residential market.
Because of its intrinsic properties, leather has always been popular with the hospitality sector. Leather is relatively easy to care for and it often looks better with time. Yet, when it comes to homeowners who enjoy casually sprawling all over their furniture, upholstery can seem like the more comfortable option. Moreover, with the sheer popularity of white, clean and casual interiors, leather just doesn’t fit into the equation. If you’ve ever seen a white leather sofa covered in indigo jeans transfer, then you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
Ironically, leather was one of the most popular choices for furniture in the 80’s and 90’s, but the leather of today is different from the shiny (think patent leather) options of the past. Today’s leather is supple, matte and vintage looking. Now this is the kind of leather even I can get with.

Source: Arteriors Home
This barrel beauty by Arteriors Home is draped in vintage leather. The aged gold frame adds a touch of class and modernity.

Source: Hickory Chair
Hickory Chair makes this gorgeous supple leather bench with gold nailheads, interesting legs and old school casters.

Source: Restoration Hardware
You simply can’t go wrong with a Chesterfield; it’s a classic. Restoration Hardware has a line of leather goods, including this dazzling sectional.

Source: Bernhardt
The Hopkins Sofa by Bernhardt has that vintage look that is trending with a contemporary frame to match.
In this dark but gorgeous interior, Bernhardt pairs a tufted leather sectional with fabric pillows and chairs to give this space a modern flair.

Source: Studio McGee
In this light and airy interior, Studio McGee mixes things up by using a cognac colored leather sofa with an upholstered sofa and mid-century modern chairs.
Leather is coming back, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your love for fabric. Pairing leather with fabrics can clearly deliver a winning combination.