An optimal path to a leaner, fitter body is moderate exercise and a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber-rich carbohydrates, science has found.*
And the men and women in the study, average age 66, overweight and sedentary at the start of the study, didnÃt even have to restrict their portion sizes. The researchers directed them to eat as much as they wanted.
In the 12-week investigation, scientists from the Nutrition, Metabolism, and Exercise Laboratory at the University of Arkansas randomly assigned 34 participants to three different groups:
A diet that was high in fat (41% of calories) and fairly low in carbs (45% of calories);
A diet that was low in fat (18% of calories) and high in carbs (65% of calories);
The same low-fat, high-carb diet as the second group, plus exercise.
The low-carb dieters ate just 7 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed; the high-carb dieters consumed more than three times as much fiber (26 grams) for every 1,000 calories eaten.
The exercise in Group 3 consisted of 45 minutes of brisk aerobic activity on stationary cycles, four days a week.
At the end of 12 weeks, the low-fat, high-carb dieters lost more body weight and a higher percentage of body fat than the high-fat, low-carb dieters. What's more, thigh fat area decreased in the low-fat dieters compared to the high-fat eaters.
And, as many previous studies have shown, the winning combination was diet and exercise. On average, the low-fat, high-carb group lost 7 pounds. Adding exercise to the same high-carb diet increased weight loss to 11 pounds.
By contrast, the high-fat, lower-carb eaters did not lose any weight.
"These results are consistent with previous examinations of ad libitum [eat-till-you're-satisfied] high-carbohydrate diets and weight loss," concludes lead author Nicholas P. Hays, PhD, of the University of Arkansas. Several studies, most notably from Tufts University, have demonstrated that ad libitum high-carbohydrate, low-fat diets result in significant weight loss in both men and women.**
Another important benefit of a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet, Dr. Hays and colleagues found, is its long-term appeal. "The participants never complained of feeling hungry, an important consideration in the formulation of dietary strategies to promote weight loss and long-term maintenance of a healthy body weight."
The participants also appreciated the variety of foods available to them on the low-fat, high-carbohydrate eating plans, something several acknowledged that they missed when following — and ultimately failing at — low-carb Atkins-style diets.
Agrees Pritikin Alumnus Michael Pouls of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, who lost 78 pounds following the low-fat, high-carb Pritikin diet and exercise program, dropping from a size 44 to size 34 waist: "I can recall being on Atkins and craving fruit — I needed fruit, but you can't have any fruit on Atkins."
"With Pritikin, I can have just about everything I desire," says the 41-year-old entrepreneur. "The Pritikin Eating Plan satisfies all my food cravings — from omelettes to roasted vegetables to fruit, whole wheat bagels, salads, baked potatoes, grilled seafood, chicken, pastas, and on and on. All I have to do is stay away from the white starchy, sugary stuff, and thatÃs no problem. If I want ice cream, I can have fat-free frozen yogurt. If I want pudding, I can have Pritikin-style chocolate mousse. There are so many foods you can eat on Pritikin. I'm never bored or unsatisfied. It's a very doable, livable program."
Pritikin living, in effect, is all about how to lose body fat and stay sane and happy.
The experts agree, moderate exercise and a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber-rich carbohydrates is the key to trimming body fat.
Download a Free copy of Pritikin's Eating Plan!
* Archives of Internal Medicine, 2004; 164: 210. ** Journal of the American Medical Assocation, 1995; 274: 1450.
Health Resort
Take life to the next level, and be all that you can be. That's what a vacation at Pritikin is all about. Live better. Look better. Best of all, feel better.
All-Inclusive Program
Since 1975, 100,000+ people have come to Pritikin. We are the longest-running, most scientifically documented health resort in America.
Rooms and Suites
Our newly renovated guest rooms at the health resort are spacious, serene, and amenity-rich. Each has a gorgeous garden view.
Eugenia Killoran
Eugenia Killoran has been the food and fitness journalist for the Pritikin Program since 1992. She has published more than 3,000 articles, lectures, and book chapters on a wide variety of healthy living and weight-loss topics.
Here's a secret: You don't need an occasion to decorate your house for an occasion. A beautiful centerpiece is the icing on the cake in a dining room and the right centerpiece can hold its own all year long. Whether you're decorating a table for a dinner party or you just want an eye-catching centerpiece you can leave up all the time, no table is complete with a centerpiece.
Selecting the right table decor starts with a few decisions: Do you want something minimalist and low-key or are you going for a centerpiece that really sings? Do you find yourself reaching for natural blooms or oversized handmade pottery?
Here, we've rounded up some of our favorite centerpiece ideas that can stay up year-round. Read on for major dining table inspiration.
01of 20
Keep It Rustic
A rustic kitchen or dining room doesn't have to feel old or overly country. Adorn your natural wood table with a bouquet of dried lavender and a handful of white linen napkins to give your dining table a French provincial touch.
Head to your local thrift store to find handmade pottery and vases for much less than a big box store (and with more charm).
02of 20
Sprinkle Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is the type of greenery we always want in our house. It's refreshing, offers a minimalist and modern vibe and it lasts so much longer than fresh floral blooms.
DIY a table runner with strands of eucalyptus and arrange a handful of candles or small vases throughout for a centerpiece that is beautiful enough for the holidays but simple enough for the rest of the year, too.
03of 20
Opt for Dried Blooms
Tired of replacing your flowers every time they die? Instead, consider dried plants such as straw grass or pampas grass to adorn your dining room table. Though they may not give off any fragrance, they provide a lovely Scandi-inspired vibe in any home.
04of 20
Try Large Jugs
Whether you fill them with flowers or keep them empty, large vintage jugs are perfect for decorating a simple table. This look pairs best with more understated furniture and decor, but the larger the pieces the better.
05of 20
Go for Branches
Sometimes you just need a centerpiece idea that takes up a lot of visual space without taking up a lot of physical space. Consider filling a vase with large sprigs of blooming trees such as magnolia or olive branches. Thin branches are subtle enough not to overwhelm the space, but large enough to create a statement at your dining table.
Pottery BarnOlive Branch$40
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06of 20
Keep It Simple
Sometimes the best centerpiece ideas are the simplest ones. A bowl of fruit doesn't have to feel like a stale idea, especially in a bold dining space where you don't want to take away from the rest of the decor.
07of 20
Create a Collection
What's better than one vase in the center of your table? A few vases that can work together to create a beautiful display that feels purposeful and interesting. Find three or four similar (but slightly different) vases in a simple color palette to fill the center of a large table.
AnthropologieMatte Terracotta Vase$32
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08of 20
Add Sculptural Pieces
Why not decorate your kitchen table with art? We love the idea of displaying a few beautiful sculptures as a centerpiece on a dining table to give your room a creative, artsy look and feel.
09of 20
Don't Forget the Island
For many of us, the kitchen island is not just a place where you prep dinner, but it's also a space to serve meals, especially during dinner parties. Spruce up your breakfast bar or kitchen island with an oversized vase filled with blooms or greenery to give it a more formal feel.
10of 20
Use a Potted Plant
If you have a green thumb (or honestly, even if you don't) you are probably always looking for an excuse to buy more houseplants. Instead of flowers, consider placing a potted plant at the center of your table to add a touch of green and liveliness to your space.
11of 20
Splurge for Flowers
Sometimes there's simply no replacement for a bouquet of beautiful fresh flowers. An easy way to take your dining table from breakfast to party mode is by arranging a large bouquet at the center. Stick with one type of flower for a more modern look or try your hand at a floral arrangement to go bigger and bolder.
12of 20
Fill the Table
If your table is feeling a little empty, consider arranging sculptures or candles throughout the center to act as a more visually interesting runner. This adds a ton of visual interest and is a great way to fill a table if you're not actually using it but want it to shine.
13of 20
Use a Large Bowl
Take a spin by your local artisanal boutique and find a handmade bowl that can sit at the center of your dining table all year long and work as both a practical and a beautiful centerpiece.
14of 20
Go for Repetition
If one oversized vase is too formal for your table, opt for three or four mini vases and repeat the look a few times to create a repetition that is simple but beautiful.
15of 20
Consider the Scale
Sometimes you need a large centerpiece to finish out a dining table. If you have a simple dining room or kitchen, an oversized vase or arrangement can act as a focal point and add a lot of texture to the room.
16of 20
Add a Pop of Color
Even if you love neutral color schemes, it's hard to deny that a pop of color can do wonders for any space. Weave in a bit of color in a handmade bowl or vase for an eye-catching centerpiece.
17of 20
Create a Pairing
While one beautiful vase can often stand alone, pairing two pieces together can create a bit more depth on your table. Instead of two pieces that match, pick opposite colors for contrast.
18of 20
Go for Varying Heights
A good rule of thumb is a large centerpiece should be taller than 24 inches, but you can mix up the look by sprinkling in a few pieces of varying heights. Add a tiered cake holder and fill it with fruit or florals or mix in a handful of vases in varying sizes and your table will be set in no time.
19of 20
Keep it Oversized
The best centerpieces are ones that can hold down a dining room and help center it and finish your table setting. Opt for an oversized vase and blooms for a look that works best in a large room.
20of 20
Fill a Runner
Sometimes a single centerpiece just isn't enough. First, lay down a runner. Then, fill it with air plants or candles. Finally, complete the look with a large bouquet in the center.
Add a touch of style and class with our stunning range of Leather and Leather Effect Dining Chairs. With high quality chairs available in a range of colours, from rich deep brown to warm cream to vibrant red, there is a colour and style available to suit every taste.
Leather Dining Chair FAQs
Any other considerations to take into account when choosing a leather effect dining chair?
Consider how often you will use it and make sure it's practical for what you need.
Are you able to advise me on the best choice of leather effect dining chairs to suit my needs?
Of course, contact our sales team by giving us a call or on our live chat.
Do your leather effect dining chairs have warranty?
All our furniture comes with a 1 year manufacturing warranty.
How long can I expect the delivery of my leather effect dining chair to take?
Our standard lead time is 10-20 working days, some of our bedroom furniture can often be delivered in 5-10 working days.
How often do you update your leather effect dining chair collection?
Every year, we add new items throughout the year.
If so, are you able to give me care instructions for my leather effect dining chair?
Of course, contact our sales team by giving us a call or on our live chat.
Is it essential that my leather effect dining chair matches all my other furniture?
There is no rule that everything must match, you may prefer a more eclectic look or have existing pieces you want to incorporate existing pieces of furniture. For example, an oak table with leather or fabric chairs is often a popular choice or a marble table with velvet and chrome chairs.
If you are interested in a dining set, we have a huge variety of options available.
Is there a general timeframe for your leather effect dining chair collection?
Some ranges do get discontinued at the end of each season.
What is the best time of year to purchase a leather effect dining chair?
We have great deals on dining room furniture all year round. If you are planning to purchase a new chairs for Christmas, it's better to buy in early November to ensure delivery is prior to Christmas.
Why should I purchase my leather effect dining chair from Oak Furniture House?
We offer 0% finance and free delivery to most UK mainland addresses. We offer a 28 Day Money Back Guarantee for complete peace of mind. You can see independent reviews from our previous happy customers on Trustpilot here.
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
A great dining table needs seating to match; dining chairs are a necessary purchase. Your dining chairs might be used daily or just occasionally, but either way, it's important to find ones that are comfortable, sturdy, and stylish. There's no shortage of dining chairs to choose from, and they're available in a vast range of styles, so you're sure to find something that suits your tastes.
Here are the best dining chairs for any home style.
Our Top Picks
These traditional dining chairs are made from solid rubberwood with mortise-and-tenon joinery for durability.
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With a Y-shaped backrest and curving arms, these solid wood chairs would look great in a farmhouse or Scandinavian-style home.
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This modern, comfortable, and affordable dining chair has a sleek acrylic seat supported by a chrome base.
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Choose from several colorful upholstery options—including green, grey, and yellow—for this set of two chairs.
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These leather chairs are available in numerous colors, including both real and faux leather options.
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Made from handwoven rattan, these chairs dining have a beachy appearance, with a silhouette inspired by Parisian bistro chairs.
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These contemporary armchairs are crafted from molded plastic, have comfortable armrests, and come in several colors.
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Choose from dozens of upholstery fabric options, including performance velvet, soft boucle, and more.
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This chair has a distinctly midcentury appearance, thanks to its walnut finish and unique elbow rests.
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This incredibly affordable set of four metal chairs can be stacked for compact storage and can be used outside or in your home.
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Dimensions: 22 x 23.5 x 37 inches |Material: Rubberwood |Weight Capacity: 275 pounds |Arms: Available with or without arms
What We Like
Durable construction
Comes in various colors
Available with or without arms
What We Don't Like
Expensive
For a classic chair that will never go out of style, you can't go wrong with the Aaron Dining Chair. These well-made chairs are crafted from kiln-dried rubberwood with mortise-and-tenon joinery and corner blocks for exceptional stability, and they have a beautiful X-shaped back.
These dining chairs are available in a wide range of wood finishes, and they're finished by hand and sealed with a protective lacquer. Plus, you also have the choice between regular armless dining chairs and dining armchairs, depending on your home style and personal preference.
Dimensions: 20.1 x 21.7 x 29.5 inches |Material: Wood frame and rope seat |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: No
What We Like
Durable construction
Comes in various colors
Can sit close to the table
What We Don't Like
No warranty
Are traditional wooden chairs too plain for your tastes? You can infuse a bit of personality into your dining room with the Tomile Wishbone Chair, which features a popular design from Danish designer Hans Wegner. The chairs are solid wood, and they feature a Y-shaped backrest and curving arms, all constructed with mortise-and-tenon joinery for durability. The seats have a light natural finish, and their seats are interwoven rope in a similar hue.
Dimensions: 21.62 x 22 x 32.25 inches |Material: Chrome-plated steel and polycarbonate plastic |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: No
What We Like
Affordable
Comes in various colors
Flexible
What We Don't Like
Can scratch easily
For a more modern home, the TOBIAS Chair is a cool and affordable pick. These chairs have transparent polycarbonate seats mounted on a chrome C-shaped base, and they come in clear and blue color options. The seat of this chair is flexible to make it more comfortable to sit in, and you can't beat the reasonable price, especially if you need to buy several of them or are shopping on a budget.
Dimensions: 17.7 x 20.1 x 32.7 inches |Material: Uphostery with metal legs |Weight Capacity: 250 |Arms: No
What We Like
Comes in various colors
Comes in a set of two
Includes warranty
What We Don't Like
No arms
The Kora Upholstered Dining Chair will add a pop of color to your dining room—they're available in eight different upholstery colors. The chairs come in a set of two, and they're covered with polyester velvet that's delightfully soft to the touch. The chairs are mounted on four angled wooden legs, and you can even choose from several finish colors to match your space.
Dimensions: 18 x 23.5 x 32.5 inches |Material: Leather or vegan leather with iron legs |Weight Capacity: 275 |Arms: No
What We Like
Made with genuine leather
Durable construction
Comes in various colors
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Leather will add an elegant touch to any dining room, and the best-selling Slope Dining Chairs come in genuine top-grain leather or animal-friendly vegan leather in a variety of colors. These chairs have a wooden seat with foam padding, supported by powder-coated iron legs that form an interesting X-shape design.
Choose between several leather colors and several metallic finishes for the base, customizing these beautiful chairs to match your style perfectly.
Dimensions: 18 x 23.5 x 35 inches |Material: Rattan |Weight Capacity: 300 |Arms: No
What We Like
Comes in various colors
Available with or without arms
Easy to maintain
What We Don't Like
No warranty
For a beachy and airy vibe, the Riviera Dining Chair is handwoven rattan on a hand-shaped rattan frame. The silhouette is inspired by Parisian bistro chairs and made using classic French techniques, and you can choose from four colors, including a natural tan hue and three shades of blue. Plus, the brand has a matching bench if you want to offer different types of seating around your table.
Dimensions: 22.6 x 21 x 30.3 inches |Material: Polypropylene plastic |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: Yes
What We Like
Comes in various colors
Stackable for easy storage
Easy to clean
Includes warranty
What We Don't Like
Made of plastic
All your guests are sure to comment on the unique Ripple Chair, formed from injection-molded polypropylene plastic. These modern chairs come in several muted color options, and they feature comfortable armrests and an intricately curved frame.
However, the best part has to be that the Ripple Chair is stackable, allowing you to easily store away extras until they're needed around your table. Because they are plastic, they can also be wiped down with soap and water, making them a wonderful option for homes with young kids.
Dimensions: 18.5 x 22 x 32.5 inches |Material: Upholstery with oak legs |Weight Capacity: 300 |Arms: No
What We Like
Comes in various colors and fabrics
Easy to clean
Offers back support
What We Don't Like
No arms
The Layton Upholstered Dining Chair offers a simple, classic appearance that would mesh well with just about any style of home decor. The chairs are mounted on solid oak legs that can be finished in several colors, and you get to choose from a vast collection of upholstery fabrics, including everything from performance velvet to soft boucle and chenille options. The seat and back are a combination of foam and polyester fibers for comfort, and the backrest is slightly curved, so it supports you without chair arms that can take up too much space at the table.
Dimensions: 30 x 21.5 x 22.5 inches |Material: Rubberwood and semi-aniline leather |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: Yes
What We Like
Comes in various colors and fabrics
Durable construction
No assembly needed
What We Don't Like
Arms are short
For a midcentury modern option, you'll love the Zola Dining Chair, which has an interesting, angular shape. This chair has a solid wood frame and padded foam seat, and you can choose between dark gray or black fabric or black leather for the seat. The back legs of the chair are slanted to create a cool Z-shape with the short armrests, and the whole piece is finished with a wood veneer in a walnut stain—the perfect match for most midcentury furniture.
Dimensions: 21 x 17 x 33 inches |Material: Metal |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: No
What We Like
Durable construction
Comes in a set of four
Stackable for easy storage
What We Don't Like
No warranty
The FDW Metal Dining Chairs are durable, convenient, and affordable, and their metal construction is perfect for a farmhouse or industrial-style home. The chairs come in a set of four, and they're available in nine different colors. The chairs feature a comfortable ergonomic backrest, and they even have non-slip rubber feet to protect your floors.
The metal construction is covered in scratch-resistant paint, which is beneficial, given that you can stack them on top of each other for more compact storage. The chairs are hearty enough for outdoor use on a balcony or porch.
Dimensions: 16.5 x 19.25 x 35.37 inches |Material: Pine |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: No
What We Like
Affordable
Durable construction
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Must re-tighten assembly screws periodically
The IKEA STEFAN Chair is a more affordable take on a traditional dining chair. It has a classic design with a simple slatted back, and despite its affordable price, the chair is solid pine wood. It's finished with a black lacquer that makes it easy to clean, and the only real caveat is that the brand recommends re-tightening the assembly screws periodically for stability—a small price to pay for such a budget-friendly find.
Dimensions: 19.75 x 23.5 x 40.25 inches |Material: Oak, rubberwood, and upholstery |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: No
What We Like
Comes in a set of two
Comes in various colors and fabrics
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Another traditional style option is the Paige Dining Chair, an upholstered seat that comes in a set of two. These chairs are oak wood, and they feature a round back mounted on an ornate base. The wooden parts of this chair have a slightly distressed finish that highlights the carved details, and you can choose from several upholstery options, including linen, microfiber, and velvet fabrics.
Dimensions: 30.25 x 25 x 21.5 inches |Material: Rattan |Weight Capacity: Not listed |Arms: Yes
What We Like
Comes in various colors
Durable construction
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Indoor use only
The Pari Rattan Chair will add boho flair to any dining room. Its natural rattan is carefully manipulated into a beautiful curved form and sealed with clear lacquer. The chairs are available in a natural rattan color, but they also come in several painted hues that will brighten up your dining room. Even though rattan is often used for outdoor furniture, these chairs are indoor use only, and they would look perfect in a sunny dining corner or a sunroom.
Dimensions: 41 x 25.25 x 31 inches |Material: Upholstery and manufactured wood|Weight Capacity: 250 |Arms: Yes
What We Like
Comes in three colors
Provides back support
Includes warranty
What We Don't Like
May require some assembly
Many people like to place more prominent, more stately dining chairs at either end of their table, and the Lila Tufted Linen Arm Chair is up for the job. These attractive armchairs come in a few neutral shades, and their linen upholstery features piped edges and button tufting for added sophistication. The seat and back are foam-padded for comfort, and the wooden legs have a slightly distressed finish.
Final Verdict
For a classic dining chair that will last for generations to come, you'll want to look at the Aaron Dining Chair (view at Pottery Barn), which uses the best materials and construction techniques. If you want something a bit more modern, the Slope Leather Dining Chair (view at West Elm) has an attractive leather finish that comes in several colors.
Size
One of the most important considerations to take into account when shopping for dining chairs is their size. You'll want to measure your dining table to see how many chairs can fit around it—be sure to leave several inches of space between each chair and ensure there's space around the table for chairs to be pushed out. As a general rule of thumb, there should also be 12 inches between the seat of a dining chair and the tabletop, as this will provide adequate room to sit without bumping your knees.
Material
Dining chairs are made of various materials, each of which provides a different look and feel. Wooden chairs are typically one of the most sturdy and versatile, as you can change their finish if desired. Metal chairs are durable but can have reflective properties. Other common chair materials include upholstery fabric, which is comfortable and attractive but harder to clean, and rattan, which will add texture to your space.
Arms
Dining chairs are available with or without arms, and you'll need to decide which style suits your needs. Armless dining chairs take up less space than armchairs and are often used along the long sides of dining tables. However, armchairs are usually more comfortable, as they provide somewhere to rest your elbows and stability when you're standing up and sitting down.
FAQ
How do you prevent dining room chairs from scratching the floor?
One way to prevent dining room chairs from scratching the floor is to use felt floor protectors. Most are adhesive-backed and stick easily to the bottom of your chair legs, and they're also one of the most inexpensive ways to prevent scratching. If your felt protectors don't stick very well, try cleaning the bottom of your chair legs with an appropriate cleaning agent before putting new ones on. Another relatively inexpensive way to prevent your dining room chairs from scratching the floor includes covering the surface with an area rug.
How much room do you need between dining room chairs?
To have sufficient elbow room, you should leave around 24 inches of space for each chair at the table. This allowance will help prevent people from hitting elbows at the table and allow plenty of room to slide chairs in and out without squeezing or discomfort. If your dining room chairs have arms, leave a few extra inches of space to be safe, as arms can take up more room around the table. Always make sure to measure your dining table beforehand so you know how many chairs can fit comfortably around it.
How do you clean dining room chairs?
Cleaning your dining room chairs will depend on what kind of material they're made out of. If cleaning upholstered dining chairs, always check the fabric care instructions. Some upholstery requires professional cleaning. If you're spot cleaning a stain, you should still check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for the appropriate cleaning agent for the specific kind of fabric. You should clean liquid spills as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage.
If cleaning wooden dining room chairs, you'll still want to check the care instructions, but generally, you can use a small amount of mild dish soap and a microfiber cloth to clean them.
This article was researched and written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce, The Spruce Pets, and The Spruce Crafts. With a background in textiles and design, she's an expert in selecting the best fabrics and furnishings for the home. For this list, she considered each chair's dimensions, whether it's available with or without arms, and the materials used.