A wingback dining chair is an upholstered chair with a tall back and two side panels, known as wings, that curve forward at shoulder height. Compared with a standard dining chair, it is usually a little wider, noticeably taller and more enclosing. That extra height and shape give it presence, which is why wingbacks are so often placed at the heads of a dining table.
When choosing one, three things matter most: the size, so it fits your table and room; the style, from traditional to contemporary; and the finish, meaning the upholstery and leg material. Getting these right is the difference between a chair that feels grand and one that feels cramped. Here is what to consider.
The wingback originated as a fireside armchair, with wings designed to shield the sitter from draughts and hold in warmth. The dining version keeps the shape but scales it down so it can be pulled up to a table. The wings are usually shallower than on a lounge chair, and the seat is set at dining height rather than low and deep.
The result is a chair that feels cocooning without being bulky. The high back also frames the person sitting in it, which is part of why wingbacks feel so suited to the head of the table.
Wingback dining chairs vary between designs, but they generally share a few characteristics. The back tends to be taller than a standard dining chair, often rising well above shoulder height when seated. The seat width is often slightly wider to accommodate the wings. The overall depth may also be a little greater.
Always check the exact dimensions listed for any chair you are considering, but plan around these practical points.
Most dining chairs have a seat height that leaves around 25 to 30 centimetres between the seat and the underside of the table top. Wingbacks follow the same principle. Measure your table from floor to the underside of the top, not the surface, and compare it with the chair seat height to be sure there is comfortable leg room.
Because wingbacks are wider, allow a little more table length per chair than you would for slim chairs. Along the sides of a table, around 65 to 70 centimetres per chair is a sensible starting point. At the heads, check the table end is wide enough that the wings do not overhang awkwardly.
Wingbacks are heavier to move, so they need a bit more space behind them. Aim for at least 90 centimetres between the table edge and the nearest wall or piece of furniture. This lets someone slide the chair out without dragging it across the floor.
In most homes, two wingbacks at the ends of the table is the most balanced arrangement. The taller backs frame the table, while lower chairs along the sides keep sightlines open across the room. A full set of wingbacks around a table can look striking in a large, high ceilinged dining room, but in a typical UK kitchen diner it tends to feel heavy and closes the space in.
If you do want wingbacks all round, choose slimmer contemporary versions with lower wings and open legs, and make sure the room has plenty of floor space and good light.
Traditional designs feature pronounced wings, sometimes with a rolled edge, deep buttoning on the back, and turned or cabriole legs in dark wood. Brass studs or nailhead trim often outline the frame. These suit period properties, rooms with panelling or cornicing, and schemes built around antique or reproduction furniture.
Contemporary versions refine the shape. The wings are gentler and often flow into the back in a single curve. Upholstery is usually smooth or channel stitched rather than buttoned, and legs are slim and tapered, in timber or metal. Some designs sit on a single central pedestal or a slender sled base. These suit open plan kitchens and newer homes, as they add a sense of occasion without looking formal.
Between the two sit transitional wingbacks, which combine a classic outline with cleaner detailing. Think a traditional silhouette upholstered in plain linen with simple square legs. This middle ground is useful if your home mixes old and new pieces.
A further variation replaces buttoning with vertical channels or soft pleats on the inner back. Channel stitching gives a slightly retro, tailored look that suits both velvet and leather. It also adds texture without fuss, which helps a plain colour feel richer. Pleated backs are softer and more relaxed, and they sit well in bedrooms and informal dining corners as well as at the table.
The upholstery sets the tone of the chair more than any other element. Here are the main options and how they behave in daily use.
Velvet is a natural partner for the wingback shape. Its soft pile catches the light across the curves and makes deep colours glow. Emerald, navy, teal, rust and charcoal are popular choices. Modern velvets are often made from polyester, which is generally more durable and easier to clean than older cotton velvets. Our modern velvet dining chairs UK collection shows how the same fabric can look formal or relaxed depending on colour and leg finish.
Woven fabrics feel softer and more casual, and they are available in a huge range of textures, from tight tweeds to open basket weaves. Linen and linen blends give a relaxed, lived in look, although pure linen creases easily. For family dining, a tightly woven, mid tone fabric is a practical choice. Browse our fabric dining chairs UK sale for textured options.
Leather wingbacks have a timeless, library like character. They wipe clean easily, which makes them sensible where spills are likely, and genuine leather develops a patina as it ages. Faux leather gives a similar look and is easy to maintain. Tan, cognac, black and deep brown are classic, while grey and olive leathers feel more modern. Take a look at our leather dining chairs UK for a range of tones.
The legs are a small detail with a large effect. Dark stained timber legs give a traditional feel. Natural oak or walnut legs warm up a modern design. Black powder coated metal looks crisp and contemporary, while brushed brass or gold toned legs add a glamorous edge, particularly with velvet. Chrome is less common on wingbacks now but can work in a sleek, monochrome room.
Consider your table when choosing. If your table has metal legs, repeating that finish on the chairs creates cohesion. If the table is solid wood, timber chair legs in a contrasting tone often look more deliberate than an attempt at an exact match.
When wingbacks sit at the heads of the table, the side chairs need to relate to them without competing. Two approaches work well. The first is to match the upholstery fabric but choose a lower, simpler shape for the side chairs. The second is to contrast deliberately, such as leather wingbacks at the ends with wooden side chairs, or a bench along one side.
Whichever you choose, keep the seat heights consistent so everyone sits at the same level. A table where one diner sits noticeably higher than another always feels slightly off.
Rectangular and oval tables suit wingbacks best, as they provide natural positions at each end. Round tables are trickier because there is no head, so wingbacks can crowd each other as they curve around. If you love the look with a round table, limit yourself to two wingbacks opposite each other and keep the rest of the seating slim. With extending tables, wingbacks at the ends can stay in place while extra chairs are added along the sides when the table opens. Our modern extending dining tables UK range pairs well with this kind of flexible arrangement.
Wingback dining chairs are an investment in comfort, so a little care goes a long way. Vacuum fabric chairs regularly with an upholstery attachment, paying attention to the seams where the wings meet the back. Blot spills rather than rubbing them. For leather, dust and wipe with a slightly damp cloth, and use a suitable conditioner occasionally to keep it supple. Keep all upholstered chairs away from strong direct sunlight to reduce fading.
At Furniture in Fashion, we choose wingback and upholstered designs that balance comfort with proportions suited to UK homes, and our pieces come with free delivery to most UK mainland postcodes.
Yes. The tall back and wings support the upper body and shoulders, which makes them comfortable for long meals and conversation.
They can in a large room, but most homes look more balanced with two wingbacks at the ends and lower chairs along the sides.
Leather, faux leather or a tightly woven fabric in a mid tone colour is usually easiest to keep looking good with everyday use.
Contemporary wingbacks with gentle wings, smooth upholstery and slim legs sit comfortably in modern kitchens and open plan spaces.
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