Allow us to set the scene: the candles are lit, the lasagna is sizzling, the wine is decanting, and there isn’t a folding chair or sore lower back in sight.

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Nothing puts a damper on a sit-down soirée quicker than an uncomfortable dining chair. Whether hosting an intimate feast or the bash of the season, the right chair sets the tone for an unforgettable evening and is an easy way to introduce texture, detail, and personality.

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Feeling a design dilemma coming on? Have no fear, Experts like Zoë Feldman and Stefani Stein swear by this Martin & Brockett chair to add appeal and stylistic tension to any dining space, “It checks so many boxes,” says Expert Monica Stewart, owner of The Misfit House. “It’s super stylish, comfy, and family-friendly with its patterns and deep colors. Plus, the shape and ball finials add so much character and visual interest.”

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From classic upholstered options to modern sculptural favorites, we chatted with our Experts about their favorite dining chairs, perfect for evenings of memory-making.

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For a Versatile Dining Chair

Hollywood at Home How to Marry a Millionaire Chair

“These chairs are classic. I’ve used them in a Hollywood Regency home, and I’ve used them in a Hamptons home. They pick up the environment like they were designed for that space—and they can do the same for you.” –Brigette Romanek

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For a Romantic Dining Chair

The Expert Collection Signature Slip Dining Chair

“The classic Signature slip chair is romantic and adds a layer of casual luxury to a more minimal decor. The pecan linen hue is warm and inviting. It's a fail-proof choice.” –Natalie Myers

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For a Dramatic Dining Chair

Maison Madeleine La Lune Dining Chair

“The frame of this chair is incredibly elegant and graceful. If you want your dining chairs to be the star of the room, these look great from every angle. I can picture them upholstered in lots of different fabrics.” –Zoë Feldman

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For an Everyday Dining Chair

Summer Studio Bow Back Armchair

“You can't go wrong with a good spindle chair. It’s such a nice option for people with kids who are worried about upholstery. I love adding a seat cushion on top because you can easily take the cover off and wash it. It’s what I have in my own dining room.” –Heidi Caillier

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For a Colorful Dining Chair

And Objects Easton Side Chair

“I love the vibrant shades these chairs come in. Adding color to a space via seating is a really fun and unexpected avenue. These happen to be both playful and luxurious.” –Zoë Feldman

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For a Modern Dining Chair

Verellen Gaston Dining Chair

“Comfort is key to all my clients and a cushioned seat and back are always welcome. I really like the modern proportions of the Gaston chairs along with the curved detail on the legs. They would look great at the heads of a dining table.” –Natalie Myers

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For Everyday Comfort

Summer Studio Nord Chair

“I love this dining chair. It's perfect for smaller spaces or eat-in kitchens. It pairs well with so many different table styles without competing. It's a really versatile design.” —Jake Arnold

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For a Traditional Dining Chair

Roll & Hill Lion Dining Chair

“My goal was to design a comfortable Louis XIV chair with a more modern feel. I wanted a low profile that felt incredibly clean and delicate from every angle. The most important thing at the end of the day is comfort. I want people to be able to sit for a two-hour dinner and feel completely at ease, recline, have another drink, relax, and talk.” –Jenna Lyons

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For a Classic Striped Dining Chair

Lawson-Fenning Montrose Dining Chair

“Is there anything better than a blue and white ticking stripe? The minimalist lines of the Montrose chair and denim blue striped fabric are an unexpectedly fantastic pairing. It’s one of those pieces that’s instantly transformative.” –Stefani Stein

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For a Comfortable Dining Chair

Nickey Kehoe Cove Dining Chair

“I personally never want the party to end, so comfort is key to getting your guests to settle in. This chair is the perfect mix of simple and sweet with upholstery all around to sink into.” –Monica Stewart, The Misfit House

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For a Crowd-Pleasing Dining Chair

Hollywood at Home New York Athletic Club Armchair

“People love this chair. It’s a very big crowd-pleaser. It adds a lot of texture to a room. The lines are very simple and clean so you can use it in any setting. It’s extremely versatile.” –Katie Rosenfeld

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For an Unforgettable Dining Chair

Anna Karlin W Chair

“You won't forget these chairs. That's for sure. I love rooms to have personality and energy, and I love fostering conversations around unique pieces. Anna dared to think differently and make something so aesthetically pleasing and unique. When those things come together, I like to celebrate it.” –Brigette Romanek

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For a Sturdy Dining Chair

House of Léon Teddy Dining Chairs

“The House of Léon chairs are wonderful because they have a vintage European sensibility but are built chunky and solid for more American proportions. I don't worry about their chairs not being able to hold beyond a certain weight.” –Natalie Myers

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For a Textured Dining Chair

Rachel Donath Arnaud Dining Chair

“I would choose this chair to add a dose of texture to a dining space, especially one already filled with patterned wallpaper or drapery. It still offers comfort and would be further elevated with a removable textile cushion. This offers flexibility to add a bit more pattern play and easy clean up!” –Monica Stewart, The Misfit House

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Want personalized design advice? Book an Expert consultation.