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More than 60 years after the debut of Milo Baughman’s shapely swivel chair and 70 years since Knoll’s bouclé fabric launch (on none other than Eero Saarinen’s Womb chair), the marriage of the two classic mid-century creations is still going strong. Most famous these days is arguably Gwyneth Paltrow’s take, the eponymous bouclé chair she designed in collaboration with CB2. Even though it came out in 2018, it was the store’s top seller in 2021—probably because it embodies Paltrow’s easy elegance. But if you’re on a budget, the $999 piece is a major investment, albeit a worthy one (it has an FSC-certified pine and engineered wood frame, a hidden swivel base, and more than 150 5-star reviews).

The good news is a similar look is now within reach for thrifty shoppers: Walmart’s new Sherpa Swivel Chair by Better Homes & Gardens launched this week. Nubby cream swivel chairs abound on the Internet—scroll down for a few other strong contenders—but this one’s very reasonable $279 price tag cannot be beaten, especially given its frame is solid hardwood and the foam seat cushion is reversible, making it simple to hide wear and tear (just flip it over!). 

A couple of things to note: The Walmart design’s stitching is a little more prominent compared to some others. Plus sherpa can be prone to matting if you don’t take care of it the right way. Ultimately, though, all of these chairs are bound to make your space feel welcoming and sophisticated. In the words of Paltrow, her fan-favorite seat is “proof that things don’t have to be cold and hard to be chic.” Splurge or decide to save—either way, you have G.P.’s approval.

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