How To Style A Leather Couch So It Doesn't Feel Like A Bachelor Pad

A leather couch can be a gorgeous and practical addition to anyone's living room, but they do tend to be especially popular fixtures in bachelor pads. And the awkward truth is that with the wrong design choices, a leather couch can give off "man cave" energy even in the most conscientiously-decorated homes by people of any gender. Why do unattached gentlemen stereotypically love leather couches so much? While there's no single (pun intended) correct answer to this, leather couches are probably a popular pick because the material is sturdy, durable, easy to clean, and has a rustic, down-to-earth vibe. However, these are all qualities that make leather couches perfect not just for bachelor pads, but for all kinds of homes — from families with messy small children, to busy couples and women who are always on the go. Meanwhile, some simply love the look and practicality of this lush, natural material. And with the correct styling, a leather couch can be a perfect fit in any house without making it feel like a man cave.

Yin and yang is the key to styling a leather sofa that doesn't feel too "man cavey." Rather than leaning too hard into the masculinity that a leather couch can project, try complementing it with some softer, more feminine touches that help your living space feel like neutral territory: neither super-girly sorority, nor super-masculine bachelor pad. An easy way to accomplish this is to counter tough, dark leather with accessories like throws and pillows, and accompanying furniture that's made of softer, lighter materials and colors.

Very dark browns, grays, and blacks are often shades you'll want to use in your man cave, but opting for a leather sofa that's upholstered in a lighter color can soften the look a bit. A warm pink, for example, is a unique shade that's on trend and counters the masculinity of tough leather without being overly-feminine either. But if you're already committed to your dark-colored leather couch, you certainly don't need to get rid of it! Instead, accessorize it with some softer throws, pillows, and blankets that can tone down the more masculine look. You don't necessarily need to go overboard with florals, but try to incorporate some home decor with a feminine touch by using more delicate materials such as silks or even lace accents. Lighten up your color choice of accessories with some brighter creams, grays, sages, or light blues — especially if the leather couch itself is a darker color.

You can also counter the leather couch's more masculine vibe by arranging it next to furniture that gives off some feminine energy. Instead of magnifying the masculine look with more leather furniture, pair your leather couch with chairs and ottomans in materials associated with feminine decor, such as velvets and silks. Also, go for accompanying furniture with curved, elegant silhouettes rather than anything too angular. A small, round side table with delicate details, for example, can complement a leather couch nicely. Feel free to experiment with different styles until it feels just right, and know that mixing and matching the best of both stereotypically masculine and feminine looks can help you accomplish a home decor look that feels truly you — and not like it's conforming to a cliché.