This is How To Shop for a New Sofa

Featuring high, rolled arms that are level with a tufted back, the chesterfield has an old-fashioned English Country look. Often upholstered in leather with the short legs left exposed, it has a deep seat and high frame that give it a cozy feel just right for chats.

Neither too formal nor too casual, neither too traditional nor too modern, this Goldilocks choice works in a range of rooms and homes. Built with low, softly rolled arms and a relaxed pitch, it typically has loose cushions and a skirt but also looks great skirtless and on casters.

Very French and traditional in feel, this pretty, petite seat features an exposed wood frame that arcs downward into low arms—perfect for a fancy parlor or master bedroom.

With its clean, straight lines, this handsome piece is the epitome of statement-making cool. While it's just the thing to perch on with a cocktail, it's a bit too stiff for cozy lounging.

Elegant and formal, this beauty gets its name from the sinuous shape of its tight back (meaning the back is attached to the sofa itself), which curves down into high, rolled arms. A graceful addition to a living room, it has a narrow seat, making it suitable for a bedroom or front hall.

Sometimes described as an updated chesterfield, the tuxedo has high, straight arms that are set level with its back, giving it a trim, modern look. A little too closed in to work in a cocktail party setting, this is a nap-friendly addition to a library or home office.

Extremely regal and old-world, this design dates from the 17th century, when it was often used as a throne. Tame its extremely high back by placing it against a wall in a big room.

Possibly the most commonly found sofa style, this casual, comfortable American classic has low arms—either rounded or square—and an appealing solidity. It is unassuming enough to work in a variety of rooms.