24 of the Best Border Rugs to Buy Right Now |

Rotating GIF of three images that depict different colorful border rugs in a living room and dining room. — (Image credit: Nordic Knots, Mango Home, Soho Home)

If you really want to invest in one nice thing for your home — something that will instantly elevate it — then let it be a rug. A quality rug is a standout feature in an interior, if not just a pleasant and plush place for your feet to land. Plus, it's like investing in a good piece of art, especially when you opt for a fun color or print. And the rug style currently dominating the design sphere? Border rugs.

As far as rug trends go, this one is simple in concept: a border rug is a rug defined by a strong decorative pattern, color, trim, or tufting around the edge. Simple, but effective. A playful border is like a taste of pattern without committing to something overly maximalist; it's color with a little more definition. Dare I say, border rugs might be the best rug to invest in, thanks to the timelessness of the style.

They are at least a dependably stylish choice with a certain contemporary edge. So, if you're looking for a cozy, tufted layer to finish off your living, dining, or sleeping space, I've done most of the hard work for you (you're welcome).

Image of a mint green bedroom with a modern bed that has a silver frame and white bedding. The floors are tan with a tan rug that has a caramel and pink border. — A border rug is just playful enough without taking over the design scheme of the room.

The thing I am really drawn to with border rugs is that they allow for naturally thoughtful styling. Rather than hiding the main part of a patterned rug under your furniture, a border rug means you can still easily see the most exciting part of the design. The border peaks into view, while the centerpiece (like a coffee table) sits on the simpler part of the design.

And there are ample options when it comes to shopping this style. I spent a day browsing the best places to buy rugs, and I've put together a curated list of the most fashionable border rugs I could find. Here are 24 styles I've got in my shopping cart. Now to decide on just one...

If you couldn't tell by this extensive list of stylish floor coverings, border rugs are having their moment in contemporary design. However, I'm still loving the cut-out rug look — maybe I can find a piece that does both?

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Olivia Wolfe is a Design Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated from University of the Arts London, London College of Communication with a Masters Degree in Arts and Lifestyle Journalism. In her previous experience, she has worked with multiple multimedia publications in both London and the United States covering a range of culture-related topics, with an expertise in art and design. At the weekends she can be found working on her oil paintings, reading, or antique shopping at one of London's many vintage markets.