Warming Up Your Rooms for Winter
Seasonal Trends: Faux Leather and Fur
Winter is the time to crank up the cozy, and this year at Imperial, we’re leaning fully into the tactile appeal of faux leather and faux fur -- two materials that feel rich, warm and playful without any of the heaviness.
The newest versions of these faux materials are unimaginably chic and realistic, offering affordability and elegance. Imagine a snug reading nook with a plush faux fur throw, or a sleek armchair wrapped in supple faux leather that invites you in. These materials bring texture, depth and a little luxury to our everyday spaces.
This Winter Explore Faux Options That Feel Real!
For winter 2025-26, think “rich texture meets effortless chic.” Faux leather in caramel, espresso or charcoal introduces a grounded sophistication, while faux fur in creams, gentle greys or soft taupes can add a shot of warmth that doesn’t overpower. These materials allow you to layer in a way that’s both approachable and elevated. Mix in a chunky knit throw, a warm wood accent, and soft lighting—and you’ve got yourself a space that feels like it was made for lingering.
3 Ways to Bring Faux Home and Wrap Your Room In Comfort
Seat smart: Cover an accent chair or loveseat with faux leather. Its smooth surface adds interest and contrast when taking a place among bulkier fabrics and knits.
Drape with drama: Toss a faux fur throw over the back of your sofa or the foot of the bed to instantly add texture and invite touch.
Anchor with accessories: Introduce faux leather and fur via pillows, poufs or a small rug. Keeping the scale small lets the materials shine without overwhelming the space.
We invite you to visit our Imperial Decorating showroom to see how real these new faux materials look and feel. Or better yet, make an appointment and talk to one of our decorating experts who can walk you through the possibilities. We’re excited to help you elevate your room from “nice” to “I never want to leave!”
Is Faux Right for You?
Pros
Animal-friendly richness: you get the sleek appeal of leather and the lush feel of fur -- minus the ethical concerns.
Style on a budget: these materials let you add luxury texture without the luxury price tag.
Creative freedom: from colorful faux leathers to dreamy furs of different piles and patterns (think lion mane vs. cheetah), the options are endless.
Space that invites: these materials wrap a room in comfort and tell people it’s okay to linger.
Cons
Quality matters: a cheaper faux leather could crack over time and low-end faux fur might shed, so choosing well matters.
Seasonal vibe: the richness of leather and fur feels deeply winter-ready - so in spring or summer you might need to swap them out for breezier textiles.
Synthetic origins: If you are concerned about petroleum-based origins, the good news is there are now some really amazing recycled and plant-based alternatives emerging.
The Art of the Winter Pillow Mix
As winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like refreshing a room with a new pillow mix. It’s one of the simplest ways to shift the mood of a space: suddenly your sofa feels softer, your favorite chair becomes more inviting, and the whole room takes on that cozy, “come sit for a while” energy we crave this time of year.
Figuring out the right use and placement of pillows can be a bit daunting, but here’s where to begin: Grab a couple of solid, foundational pillows that echo the colors already in your room. (Look to walls, trim and adjoining rooms for ideas.) From there, weave in richer materials like velvet or chenille for depth, then add a seasonal accent — maybe a quiet plaid, a winter botanical, or a pillow with soft embroidery that gives the space a hint of personality. And for the final touch, mix in one texture-heavy piece such as faux fur (a big winner as we mentioned in this newsletter), boucle, or a chunky knit. It’s amazing how a single tactile pillow can warm up an entire seating area.
What makes the winter pillow mix so important is that it’s both practical and atmospheric. These fabrics feel good against the skin, hold warmth beautifully, and add visual dimension without overwhelming the room. A thoughtful pillow arrangement brings harmony, comfort, and a little everyday luxury - a gentle nod to winter’s slower pace and a reminder to sink in, relax, and enjoy the season.
Looking Back on 2025: A Few Final Thoughts
Thank you to all of you who came in to see what we offer, those who met with our experts, and the customers who trusted us to refurbish, restore and/or recreate beloved pieces. In a world that encourages us to toss aside and start over, there’s something deeply comforting about choosing instead to preserve the pieces that have been with us through holidays, milestones and quiet everyday moments. And that’s where the art of reupholstery shines.
A cherished chair can soften and fade over time, but its story only grows richer. A well-built sofa from decades past often has stronger bones than anything made today. Even a simple footstool can hold memories woven into every seam. Reupholstering these pieces invites new life into old treasures, keeping their history intact while giving them a fresh beginning. Whether it’s a hand-me-down, a vintage find or a well-loved family staple, the right fabric and craftsmanship can make it feel beautifully renewed.
For four generations, Imperial Decorating has believed in this balance of tradition and transformation. Our craftsmen understand the value of a piece not just in how it looks, but in what it means. Reupholstery is more than a service — it’s a way of helping your home evolve with care, intention and respect for the things that matter most.
From our family of craftsmen to yours — thank you for letting us be part of your home’s journey. We look forward to hearing about the new memories you make in 2026!
