Rattan is back in style, and for good reason. A renewed appreciation for natural materials, along with a growing interest in retro and eclectic interiors, has pushed rattan furniture into the spotlight. Rattan pieces are remarkably versatile: they complement modern, boho, coastal, and vintage aesthetics with ease. Below we explore three distinct ways to style a rattan chair, using the Lily Rattan Arm Chair and a Shadow Circle wall mirror as inspiration. By swapping a few key accessories—pillows, cushions, greenery, or simple decor—you can transform the same chair to suit different moods and rooms.
Photos and styling by Kate Simmons for Decoist
A Scalloped Pillow
Give a contemporary rattan chair an instant retro lift with a vintage-inspired pillow. A scalloped or round velvet pillow—think Shelly Round Velvet Pillow—adds radial texture and a soft, tactile contrast to the natural weave of the chair. The pillow creates comfortable back support while introducing a nostalgic silhouette that blends well with both modern and mid-century pieces.
Choose a neutral tone with a faint blush for an understated, elegant look, or go for a bold hue to make the chair a focal point. Pairing a scalloped pillow with a nearby houseplant helps evoke a tropical or sunlit vibe—perfect for a reading corner, a sunroom, or a living room vignette. The goal is to create a serene, retro-modern atmosphere that feels effortless and inviting.
A White Cushion
For a clean, contemporary look, place a white cushion on the seat. A crisp white seat pad keeps the chair comfortable while allowing the woven back and organic shape to remain fully visible. This approach highlights the natural beauty of the rattan and keeps the silhouette light and fresh—ideal for minimalist, coastal, or Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Complement the white cushion with a tall vase holding a large green leaf—monstera or similar—so the vignette reads bright and modern with a hint of tropical flair. If you prefer a grounded, earthy accent, add a woven belly basket at the chair’s feet. A two-tone seagrass basket not only reinforces the natural theme but also offers practical storage for throws and magazines, keeping the space tidy while looking intentional.
Big woven baskets are a smart styling choice: they enhance texture, add warmth, and reduce clutter—visual and practical benefits that suit living rooms, entries, and bedrooms alike.
Pure and Simple
The final look embraces minimalism: let the chair’s clean lines and graceful curves stand on their own. Skip pillows and cushions to showcase the silhouette and natural texture of the rattan. This pared-back approach works particularly well in modern interiors or small spaces where simplicity is key.
To add a measured pop of color without overwhelming the composition, place a small, colorful side table nearby and top it with a simple concrete planter and a healthy houseplant. This contrast keeps the scene fresh and balanced—playful yet restrained.
Whether you prefer retro charm, crisp modernity, or minimal elegance, styling a rattan chair is about thoughtful contrasts: soft textiles against woven frames, lush greenery against natural fibers, and a few well-chosen accents that complement rather than compete. Use these three approaches—scalloped pillow, white cushion, and pure simplicity—to adapt your rattan chair to different rooms and moods, and enjoy a versatile piece that works season after season.