If you have a penchant for a minimalist aesthetic, you may feel like there are limited opportunities to play with pattern in your home. But don’t worry – I’m seeing elegant contrast piping all over the furniture right now; It's subtle, high quality, and adds just the right amount of interest without going over the top. On sofas it immediately enhances the look, adding more structure while emphasizing the shape and proportions.
“Piping draws attention to the craftsmanship and details,” adds Julie Smith, style director and co-owner of sofa brand Arlo & Jacob. “It's popular at the moment because people crave pieces that feel both timeless and personal – and piping allows you to play with contrasting fabrics, colors or textures, adding a touch of individuality.”
Beyond aesthetics, piping also has a practical side: it helps the sofa maintain its shape, increases durability by securely connecting fabrics, and prevents certain materials from stretching over time. “Fashioned with matching pillows or accent chairs, a piped sofa becomes a statement piece that anchors the entire room,” adds Julie. Discover pretty piped models below that reflect the latest sofa trend.
Royal design
Grand Hue 2 seater sofa
For a more modern look, this two-seater sofa from Decotique offers a sleek and modern appeal, inspired by 70s design. The burnt orange fabric contrasts with the piping, and the bolster cushions are made from foam for support and softness, with matching piping.
Cath Kidson for Next
Topped by Cath Kidson for Next
Cath Kidson's designs for Next include this chic yet comfortable looking sofa with Oxford trim on the armrests, seat, backrest and upholstered cushions, enhancing its timeless silhouette. For even more impact, the Oxford Trim edging is available in the body fabric or in a contrasting color, as seen here.
John Lewis
Marlow Small 2 Seater Sofa
A classic option for an elegant living room, the curved lines of the armrests of this sage green sofa are accentuated by the piping, giving it a sleek and elegant finish. The color contrast emphasizes a beautiful curved shape, perfect for an elegant salon.
Dusk's sofa range is quickly becoming popular and this piping sofa proves why. The black piping on a cream fabric provides an elegant finish and the contrast highlights the boxy look of the sofa. The Soho 3 Seater Sofa features back cushions that provide a firm, down-like feel and pocket spring seats for added comfort.
Love your home
Byron chaise sofa
The Love Your Home chaise sofa offers extra legroom but still feels elegant thanks to the piping. Additionally, the brand goes one step further and allows you to customize your fabric and desired piping color by choosing between velvet, herringbone or linen, customizing the product to suit your taste and the specific color palette of your living room.
John Lewis X Sanderson
Islington large 3 seater sofa, Rowan Berry/Manilla Beige
This slipcover sofa is available in several color options including Rowan Berry and Vanilla Beige (as well as Manilla and Cobalt Blue, Sage and Aloe, Cobalt and Navy Blue). Designed in collaboration with Sanderson, it celebrates heritage with a modern twist.
This visually striking sofa from DHS comes in a blush tone with elegant custom piping in a green-gold hue that contrasts beautifully with the pale pink. Both practical and luxurious, velvet is great for a cozy living room look. Eye-catching fabrics can have a big impact with little effort.
Dunelm
Small double two-seater sofa bed with piping
If you want to bring the piping trend to a guest room or office, this two-seater sofa easily converts into a bed. Featuring a woven fabric in a classic natural color with contrast piping and black metal legs, it looks as good as it feels.
then
Sofa in Sage Dipley fabric
For a more minimalist approach, this sofa features beautiful but subtle piping detailing on the cushions and armrests in the same color as the sofa, providing a gentle contrast, and is available with a matching ottoman.
Finished with a thin cord in a contrasting or complementary tone, piping is the perfect way to create a calm, luxurious look. The piping creates a raised edge that accentuates the curves for an elegant finish, bringing a feeling of luxury and elegance to the home and providing that special touch that a minimalist space needs.
And it's not just popular in the living room. Piped bedding is the easiest way to achieve a hotel look even in your bedroom.