Classic

Slipcovers have been around for so long that I do not call them a craze. Slipcovers have many functions; they can transform a room without spending a lot of money. Slipcovers are a great way to have your design style change with the seasons or your mood. There are different types of slipcovers. Some are easy to slip over your furniture and have a more casual look, while others are installed to fit and look like upholstery. I hope this classic stays. Linda K. Kusmer, Total Interior Designs Inc.

Slipcovers are a classic! What better way to change the look of your upholstery? (I’m not talking about the one-size-fits-all variety.) If you have them custom made, slipcovers can be snugly tailored and not look sloppy. Or, a looser look can lend a more casual feel.  In addition, making the covers out of a pre-shrunk, machine washable fabric is great for families to keep furniture looking fresh. Nancy Barrett, Beautiful Rooms.

You can use them to change up a cute, dated chair for a fresh, trendy "shabby chic" sort of look, or to cover up a comfy, discolored or faded piece that you just can't bear to part with. We've seen slipcovers for generations. Having grown up in New England, I've always seen them as a fun way to "summer-up" a piece that's a little too wintery. At one time, they were used to lengthen the life of the upholstery. I remember seeing them stripped off for when company was coming, and put back on when the kids were around. I don't see them going away anytime soon. Those who love them REALLY love them.  For me, they always look like a slipcover, just slightly askew and rumpled looking, which in the right setting is perfect! Teddy Karl, The Great Cover Up.

If I had to title a slipcover a classic or craze, my vote would be classic. They have been around forever. I remember growing up with slipcovers on our sofa as a child! I have a few higher end homes where the client already owned fabulously made and comfortable furniture, but it was the wrong color to work in the space. Going to a local Pottery Barn and getting a fabulous fitting slipcover has been a perfect fix to this dilemma! Add some new throw pillows to pop a pattern and color, and you have a new look! Anne Marie Boedges, Anne Marie Design Studio, LLC.

Hallelujah for slipcovers! Slipcovers are wonderful in many ways; extremely functional and versatile, an easy way to update an old piece of furniture and a lifesaver when you have small children or pets. Slipcovers are an easy way to refresh a room for different seasons or holidays.  Slipcovers are a great option and will remain a classic design element. Barbara Collins, Barbara Collins Interior Design.

Craze

I’m not a fan of the slipcover look. It gives furniture a sloppy unkempt look. I prefer furniture that is tailored. With all of the great stain-guarded fabrics you can really live on your furniture with our being concerned about stains. So why cover up your upholstery’s beautiful curves? C.J. Knapp, Yours By Design.