It's always exciting when you get invited to a press preview of an upcoming furniture and homewares collection — especially when it's for John Lewis. For the brand's AW25 drop (most of which is now live), there was a clear trend: rich and cozy as we transition into autumn. And the best case in point of that has to be the new John Lewis Pleat sofa.
While the soft chenille fabric and rich 'ginger' colorway instantly nod to the 70s aesthetic that's back in a big way right now, I couldn't help but also draw parallels to the skirted furniture trend that's been popular again, though the subtle pleated detail is a far more contemporary take on the look.
Throw in a curved 'Lozenge'-inspired silhouette (one of the best-selling John Lewis sofa styles), and we may just have a modern classic on our hands. Better yet, it's available now with delivery in just seven days (is it too early to be planning where you'll be opening presents come Christmas? I don't think so).
The throw pillows (all also from John Lewis) styled on the Pleat Sofa at the press showcase definitely leaned into the 70s aesthetic.
Available as either a three-seat sofa formation (starting a £1,849), or with a left-hand or right-hand-side chaise, the Pleat Sofa can come in 90 different fabrications (though only the soft chenille ginger is available within 7 days — the rest come with a 12 week wait). It's modular design also means the chaise style could be split apart, which makes it easier to move, especially down tight hallways.
In terms of comfort (because when it comes to the best sofas, they should have both: style and softness), this one sits somewhere in the middle. Its medium-comfort rating means that while it does have an element of sink-in-me softness, it is typically a more structured design that will retain its shape and require less 'plumping' over time.
Plus, I honestly see the lack of scatter cushions as a positive — it's less to worry about, and ensures the sofa looks sleek and clutter-free. Or you could see it as an opportunity to add your own little twist. I personally think this verdure-inspired Giardino Cushion, also from John Lewis, would look particularly good.
But really, the strongest selling point is those pleats. Neatly tucked, it feels like a subtle nod to the skirted style, but without the unruly ruffles that can lean a bit too farmhouse, and often look out of place in more contemporary homes. And it's not the first time I've seen pleats lately, either. The formal folds are making their way through the design world, appearing as pleated lampshades, bed covers, and even smaller home accessories. I've listed some of my favorite to shop, below.
This pretty pleat-trimmed duvet cover set is a playful take on the piped bedding trend, another popular look right now that oozes with hotel-style sophistication. The pleats here feel elevated, soft, yet still structured enough to be formal and not too romantic.
Perhaps one of the easiest ways to buy into the pleated look, this placemat from Anthropologie is packed with fabulous folds. Available in four different colorways: green, blue, pink, and this neutral, honey colorway.
When it comes to pleats, the box pleat is perhaps the most traditional style, and one that recently surged in the world of sofas for its classic refinement. On this lovely linen ottoman, it feels playful yet polished; the perfect place to rest your feet.
We've all seen a pleated lamp before, but I find the trick to a more contemporary approach all comes down to fabrication. This style is made from a soft silk that gives it a subtle lightness that playfully bounces light around the room, too.
Corduroy is cool, but a pleated fabric is even cool. Slightly more unexpected, you can get this velvet basket in this box shape, a pleated laundry basket, or a smaller pleated basket that could be styled on sheves or under your bed.
And, of course, you can't talk about pleats and not mention curtains. One of the biggest markers of style comes down to the pleat you choose for your curtain heading, and if you ask me, a pencil pleat feels the most intentional.
But buying a sofa is not an impulse buy (nor should it be), so it's worth doing your research — like working out the best sofa dimensions for your space, the first step in everyone's sofa buying journey. Because the last thing you want to do is invest in something you can't fit down your hallway, no matter how good it looks.
