What Is Jacquard Fabric? (And How It Can Upgrade Your Home Decor)

Ever admired the elaborate patterns on a luxury curtain or sofa and wondered what makes them stand out? Meet Jacquard fabric. Jacquard fabric is all about luxury and detail, with patterns woven right into the material instead of being printed on top. It's named after Joseph Marie Jacquard, the French inventor who, back in 1804, produced a loom that could create intricate designs with ease. Originally used for fancy fabrics like brocade and damask, Jacquard quickly became a staple for everything elegant. Today, it's just as at home in modern decor, adding texture and style to curtains, cushions, and furniture while carrying a bit of history in every thread.

Jacquard fabrics aren't just about looking good — they're built to last, too. Known for their durability, they could represent the best choice of upholstery for your sofa, as these are high-traffic areas that see plenty of daily use. Plus, Jacquard holds its color beautifully – since the patterns are woven in instead of printed on, they're much less likely to fade with time. In addition, the structure of Jacquard fabrics means they are thick and sturdy. This is one of the reasons why the material lends itself so well to upholstery — the fabric won't crinkle or become loose and baggy. While Jacquard fabric is super durable, it doesn't love direct sunlight. If you choose Jacquard curtains, be aware that the sun can cause them to fade.

Though Jacquard fabric is widely thought of as an upholstery material, don't be afraid to use it on furniture and beyond. For example, use it on a custom wall hanging to make a room pop. Its rich textures and intricate patterns turn any wall into a stylish statement. Think of it as a fun, creative way to add personality and a little luxury to your space. You can even repurpose fabric scraps into a one-of-a-kind DIY artwork for your home. No matter how you use it, Jacquard fabric offers endless possibilities to infuse your space with unique style and flair.

Jacquard can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere during the colder months. The elegant aesthetic and heavy texture of this fabric make it ideal for throw pillow covers that can be switched out seasonally. Consider adding Jacquard placemats or napkins to your festive table settings to elevate the decor and achieve a luxury look. These Benson Mills Jacquard Fabric Cloth Napkins represent an excellent choice that would work with any fall or winter color scheme.

If you want to add an extra dimension to your space, give your walls a textured look with fabric wallpaper. While Jacquard wallpaper isn't made from real Jacquard material, it has a raised texture that creates a similar look. The woven patterns in the paper reflect the light, giving the walls a richness that flat, smooth surfaces can't achieve. Even if the fabric is the same color throughout, the texture adds a beautiful depth and dimension, making your walls come alive. It's a simple way to make a space feel dynamic and full of character.

For a neutral space that reads as elegant and upscale, consider this AMINAH DECO Damask Textured Wallpaper in a classic shade of off-white. This paper is subtle enough that it could be used on every wall in a room without making the space feel overwhelming, but it would work equally well on a feature wall for a sleek aesthetic. Apply it in a bedroom behind a Rococo-style headboard for a luxury, French-inspired style. For an update that's easy to remove, you could alternatively try the YARETZY 3D Embossed Peel and Stick Wallpaper. This paper represents a temporary solution for renters who want to elevate their space without making permanent changes.