Side chairs can serve many purposes, but are typically referred to as the chairs that line the long sides of a dining table. They are often armless, lightweight and easily mobile.
Side chairs can also be used for extra seating when needed during special occasions. If you find yourself scrambling for seating when you have guests over, then investing in side chairs could be the right choice for you!
Luckily, you can find many affordable side chairs online to keep to one side of your dining room or living room, and use them as needed. Don’t even think about getting an ugly metal folding chair. You can find a gorgeous, stylish side chair that will serve as a decorative piece when not in use!
Side Chairs We Love
Here are nine all-purpose side chairs for extra seating when you need it!
1. Eames Fiberglass Chair
The Eames fiberglass chair has been a design classic since it was designed in 1950. Both the seat and back of the chair are crafted from one solid molded plastic piece. It is attached to straight wooden legs. This is a beautiful side chair that can integrate into a variety of dining rooms or homes, even though it has a particularly Scandinavian design and vibe to it. Get this chair for as little as $45!
2. Cross-Back Bistro Side Chair
This is one of my favorite side chair designs. The cross back side chair is known for the two thin pieces of wood that form an X on the backside of the chair. Typically made of wood, this chair can work inside French country homes, Farmhouse homes and country homes. They can also be seen in modern coastal homes, too! Shop the chair below at Wayfair for $108, or go for a long-lasting yet slightly more expensive Williams-Sonoma version for $175.
3. Solid Wood Spindle Back Dining Chair
Another classic chair, the spindle back dining chair is typically made of solid wood. The $119 chair model we’ve shared with thin back rods works best in a Modern Farmhouse home, giving it an updated traditional look. If you’re looking for a more Scandinavian look for this chair, then try this chair from Wayfair.
4. Ghost Chair
Another versatile classic, the ghost chair got its name from the transparency it is known for. Typically made of a crystal clear plastic, ghost chairs are essential side chairs with a modern design. Grab this chair for as little as $85!
5. Wishbone Chair
Most often associated with Scandinavian design, Wishbone chairs are making their way into the mainstream design world. Their classic and simple design works best in minimalist homes. For a cost-friendly option, check out this chair on Amazon, but for a highly-rated investment chair, opt for this Wayfair one.
6. Velvet Side Chair
Velvet side chairs work best in glamorous, modern homes. This particular chair is upholstered in blush pink velvet and stands on thin brass legs.
7. Light Oak Teak Wood Arm Chair
This side chair has a little more personality than the other chairs, but I truly love its style and design. I can see it inside a California casual home or a modern coastal dining room. It’s made of a light oak wood and features white, bonded leather webbing on its seat, creating a beautifully modern side chair that will warm up any room! Grab this chair from Amazon!
8. Brown Leather Side Chair
A classic mid-century design that doesn’t look dated, the brown leather side chair with metal legs is the perfect addition to any modern home. Upholstered in a smooth leather, you can purchase this chair in a variety of colors from brown to gray, to deep green, to black. I love it in this light brown, caramel color.
9. Mid-century Modern Side Chair
Lastly, when in doubt, opt for a time-testing mid-century modern side chair like this one. The warm brown wood will always be welcoming and the minimal design will keep this chair from standing out amongst your other furniture. I have seen this kind of style in Emily Henderson’s home designs so you know its designer-approved!
