Lights, camera, action! If you're nostalgic for Old Hollywood glamour (or, like me, fancy yourself the director of your household), look no further than a director's chair. An iconic on-set staple, the director's chair is a timeless silhouette that lends cinematic charm to any space.
You might picture the classic canvas and wood frame at hair and makeup stations, but director's chairs have come a long way since Hollywood’s Golden Age. Many are now weather-resistant, making them one of the best minimalist outdoor furniture options around.
‘These chairs are lightweight and often foldable,’ says Jodi Peterman, CEO at design firm Elizabeth Erin Designs, ‘making them easy to move around and store in the off-season.’ They can easily ‘be placed around a patio table or in a garden area’ and, in bold colors and prints, can add some spice to an otherwise dull outdoor living space.
Indoor director’s chairs are equally multifaceted. Not only can they serve as living room accents, but ‘they also make excellent dining chairs,’ adds Jodi. ‘You could use four director's chairs if your table seats six and add two upholstered chairs as captains' chairs at the heads of the table, or use six matching chairs for a cohesive look.’ Plus, ‘a director's chair's foldability and easy cleaning make it perfect for use in your bathroom as a vanity chair’ — ideal for achieving that celebrity status, green room feel.
Whether you’re seeking indoor or outdoor director’s chairs (or both), I've done the digging — the casting, if you will. I read the reviews, compared the listings, and found the best-looking seats out there. Hailing from the best outdoor furniture brands, the auditions are over, and my decision is made: These 12 seats are absolute stars:
Director's Chairs
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Indoor Director's Chairs
Price: $249.99
Was: $516
This quilted chair set is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, but it’s just too good to leave out. It effortlessly blends luxury with an unpretentious vibe, thanks to its contrasting wooden frame. Normally, I wouldn't go for an orange chair, but there’s something about this set’s design that makes the bold hue feel just right. Pair with greens and neutrals for a balanced look.
Price: $175
Was: $185
From the stretched seat and back made of genuine leather to the solid iron frame, no detail was spared on this director’s chair by Joss & Main. For a piece this luxe, I’d expect it to cost almost double. Currently on sale at $175, this chair is not only a great deal, but if you’re looking for a petite iron style, there’s no competition. Use it as a desk chair or purchase multiple for a dining set.
Price: $935.25
Was: $3,230
Currently at 71% off, if you don’t buy this chair, I will. Its seat and back are made of real Mongolian fur, which is timelessly glamorous and on-trend right now. It feels like Old Hollywood at its finest. This chair is substantial enough to hold its own as a standalone accent — no side table or ottoman required.
Price: $399
Was: $499
This Crate & Barrel director’s chair is the epitome of quiet luxury. From afar, it might look like an ordinary cream-colored chair. But up close, you notice the slings of top-grain leather and the solid white oak. It looks best in a pair, whether in a sitting corner or around a small table. It’s favorably reviewed, currently discounted, and designed by Leanne Ford, so I’d recommend striking while the iron’s hot.
Price: $383.54
Was: $941
I’m going to let you in on a little secret: I spotted this exact chair — same brand, same materials — at a couple of other high-end department stores for not two, not three, but five times the price of this listing on Overstock. Its gold tones and black velvet are super glamorous, and I love that it’s at bar height, which is rare in the realm of director’s chairs. Oh, and it’s got a perfect 5/5 star average review — need I say more?
Price: $488
One thing about me is that I’m partial to bamboo — it invariably conjures up images of ‘60s era Jackie Kennedy, and in a word, Gucci. All of this is to say that I find it timelessly elegant when done right, and this director’s chair from Cailini Coastal most certainly does it right. Though the rich, natural variations in its frame certainly carry a room, its white seat might be complemented by throw pillows for color or additional texture.
Outdoor Director's Chairs
Price: $349
Starting the outdoor director chair portion off strong is this painted teakwood pick by Business & Pleasure Co. It reminds me of pink lemonade — a summery sweet made even more delightful by the darling scalloped borders. Pairs well with cabana stripes and country club-style outdoor umbrellas. Admittedly it’s a bit of a splurge, but I really hunted and couldn’t find anything similar — this one’s a gem.
Price: $76.87
Got an outdoor bar? Meet this steal of a seat from Walmart — perfectly designed for all your counter needs. It’s extra-wide for style and added comfort, while its frame is made of durable solid American hardwood. Some assembly is required, but according to reviews, it’s quite easy.
Price: $244
This patio furniture set isn’t made of teak, but it definitely looks like it with its teak oil finish, which adds a luxe touch to a budget-friendly backyard. But what I love even more are the summery stripes, which would pair beautifully with any coastal-inspired backyard decor. They’re super lightweight, making entertaining as breezy as their design.
Price: $332
The thin back of this director’s chair makes this classic design even more minimalist. Pared back in all the right ways, it whispers luxury. I haven’t tested this one in person, but I expect nothing but the best from Rove Concepts. Consider purchasing a set for your outdoor table. Also available in white.
Price: $199.45
Was: $209.95
This sunny yellow director’s chair set boasts a cheerful 4.7/5-star rating. If that’s not enough to make you smile, the fact that its acacia wood is eco-friendly might do the trick. Perfect for patios, place a side table between the two chairs for an instant conversation starter.
Price: $380
This outdoor director’s chair doubles as art with its insert of friezes and turned wood moldings. Handmade in Italy and boasting a cotton fabric with Cortina-Dolomites, it naturally comes with a higher price tag than other outdoor chairs, but it’s also a beauty you don’t see every day. Style with an outdoor floor lamp and outdoor rug for a seriously chic outdoor living room.
How should I care for indoor director’s chairs?
According to design firm CEO Jodi Peterman, indoor director’s chair seats should be regularly cleaned with mild soap and water or a leather cleaner, depending on the material. Be sure to read the product description of your chosen chair carefully to ensure you're using the appropriate cleaning method.
If you opt for a wood indoor director’s chair, Jodi advises examining the wood for UV ray damage and treating it right away if you notice any. This typically isn't an issue, but it's something to keep in mind if you have a sunroom or any room with lots of windows.
How should I care for outdoor director’s chairs?
Like indoor director’s chairs, outdoor director’s chair maintenance will vary substantially by material. Elizabeth Erin Designs CEO Jodi Peterman offers some insights for the most common materials:
‘For metal frames, check for rust and treat it promptly,’ Jodi advises. When possible, opt for powder-coated metal frames as these ‘require less maintenance and are ideal for exterior use.’
If you choose teak wood frames for outdoor use, first of all, good choice (this is about the best quality wood you can get). ‘Periodically apply a protective sealant to protect them from moisture,’ Jodi suggests.
Regardless of the material, regularly clean the seats of your outdoor director’s chair with mild soap and water. ‘Ensure the chairs are stored in a dry, covered area when not in use,’ adds Jodi.
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