The club chair is not a single model. Behind this iconic name are several silhouettes that became legendary throughout the 20th century. Depending on the era, the workshops, and decorative trends, the club chair evolved into different styles that can be recognized at first glance.
From the classic rounded model to the famous moustache, including the gendarme hat style and the Art Deco version, each shape tells a chapter of French furniture history.
In this guide, discover how to identify the main club chair styles, their aesthetic features, and which interiors they suit best. To understand how they appeared over time, also visit our pillar page:
History of the Club Chair.
Why Are There Several Club Chair Styles?
The club chair was born in the early 20th century as a comfortable, generous and enveloping seat. Very quickly, craftsmen adapted its shape to match customer tastes: softer lines, sculpted backs, geometric forms or modernist inspirations.
As a result, several models became true references. Some immediately evoke the elegance of English clubs, while others reflect the golden French era of the 1930s.
1. The Classic Rounded Club Chair
The classic rounded model is the best-known version of the club chair.
- Wide rounded armrests
- Low enveloping backrest
- Deep comfortable seat
- Soft and welcoming lines
This style perfectly represents the original spirit of the club chair: comfort, strength and timeless elegance.
It fits equally well in a traditional living room or a contemporary interior where it adds character.
Ideal for: living room, library, office, reading corner.
Jules club chair, soft rounded lines
2. The Moustache Club Chair
The moustache club chair is probably the most iconic model. Its name comes from the distinctive top curve of the backrest, which resembles a moustache.
- Distinctive sculpted backrest
- Elegant expressive silhouette
- Strong visual presence
- A great classic of French workshops
Highly sought after, this model is often considered one of the most iconic in club chair history.
It adds charm to any room and often becomes the centerpiece of an interior.
Ideal for: chic décor, vintage atmosphere, character office.
3. The Gendarme Hat Club Chair
The gendarme hat club chair takes its name from the shape of its backrest, whose top line recalls the old bicorne hat once worn by the French gendarmerie.
- Elegant double-curved backrest
- Noble decorative line
- Historic model full of character
- Strong visual personality
This style evokes bourgeois interiors, beautiful libraries and refined reception rooms.
Ideal for: period homes, classic décor, authentic atmosphere.
4. The Art Deco Club Chair
During the 1920s and 1930s, the influence of the Art Deco movement transformed certain club chairs. Generous curves gave way to more structured forms.
- Straight geometric lines
- Sharper armrests
- Rectilinear backrest
- Sophisticated architectural look
The Art Deco club chair keeps the comfort of the club chair while asserting a more modern and design-focused style.
Ideal for: elegant interiors, lofts, premium vintage décor.
Grand Carré club chair, straight structured lines
Which Club Chair Style Should You Choose?
| Style | Atmosphere | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Rounded | Warm | Timeless |
| Moustache | Elegant | Iconic backrest |
| Gendarme Hat | Historic | Antique charm |
| Art Deco | Sophisticated | Structured lines |
How to Recognize a Truly Beautiful Club Chair?
Beyond style, always prioritize:
- Full-grain leather or basane leather
- Solid wood frame
- Beautiful natural patina
- Comfortable upholstery
- Balanced proportions
A beautiful club chair is judged as much by its silhouette as by the quality of its craftsmanship.
FAQ – Club Chair Styles
Which club chair style is the most sought after?
The moustache model is one of the most desirable thanks to its iconic backrest and strong decorative appeal.
What is the difference between a classic club chair and an Art Deco model?
The classic version favors rounded enveloping forms, while Art Deco adopts straighter, more structured lines.
Is the gendarme hat model antique?
Yes, it is a historic model highly appreciated for its elegant backrest and traditional French style.
Which club chair should I choose for a modern living room?
An Art Deco model or a restored classic rounded chair works beautifully in a contemporary interior.
