Another caveat I feel the need to disclose is that with a seat that’s 14 inches wide, this chair is likely only ideal for people of certain sizes. These groups include, but are not limited to: children (who I would honestly not trust around the chair), and anyone who can regularly shop at Brandy Melville for their entire wardrobe. All this to say, if you’re looking for a very comfortable reading or lounge chair, the Wiggle is likely not it.
Is the chair suitable for particular decor styles and if so, which?
When you hear “cardboard furniture,” the idea of luxury likely doesn’t come to mind, but I truly believe any space would be instantly elevated with the Wiggle Side Chair. Its sculptural form mimics a ribbon falling onto itself or a frosting technique achieved using a petal piping tip. Though the Bauhaus movement had ended by the 70’s, there’s a subtle nod to the era in the chair’s shape, yet it also has a very contemporary feel that today’s furniture designs possess. I think the piece would definitely feel most at home with furniture and decor that leans a more modern aesthetic, but it’s also versatile enough to be mixed in with more traditional and rustic styles, too.
Is it durable / practical in a modern home?
Is an almost $1,600 cardboard chair the most practical thing you can own? Probably not, but it is quite durable. I’ve moved it around and bumped into it several times and the chair hasn’t worn down in any areas. I was especially nervous that the surface would dull or fray after sitting on the chair so many times but it still looks pristine.
Is the chair kid and/or dog friendly?
While beautiful, I can’t imagine this chair being safe around toddlers and pets. I’d give it a PG-13 rating and would keep it away from furry friends who might be tempted to scratch at the cardboard. (Cats, I’m looking directly at you.)
What are the care and cleaning instructions? Do you think stains could be easily removed?
For an unusual material like cardboard, Vitra strongly advises against using any alcohol-based disinfectants, soap solutions, or abrasive agents. All this to say, keep your food and drink far away. I imagine the most you could do to keep things tidy is a light feather dusting from time to time.
Do the photos do this product justice? Was there anything you were surprised to see IRL?
The Wiggle chair exemplifies that there can be hidden beauty in an everyday material like cardboard. If anything, I’d say the chair is more impressive in person—it brings a certain elegance to the room that would make you think my last name was Roy or Van der Woodsen. And while I was under the impression the cardboard surface would feel scratchy, it’s actually a very pleasant, soft texture—almost velvety.
Chair grades
Comfort: C
Value: B-
Style: A++
Overall chair rating: A*
*Editor’s note: When I said that I think this chair could elevate any space, I meant it. That’s why I’ve graded the chair’s overall rating using my own curve—call it my Tyra Banks circa America’s Next Top Model era. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
