Plush, fuzzy, and full of personality—shag rugs are making a serious comeback. This retro favorite is being reimagined for modern spaces where comfort and style go hand in hand. With a high pile and irresistible softness, shag rugs instantly bring a cozy feel to bedrooms, living areas, bathrooms, and even home offices.
Ready to sink your feet into something luxurious? Here’s how to layer in next-level comfort with shag rugs.
What Are Shag Rugs?
Shag rugs are defined by their deep pile and classic tousled look, meaning that the fibers are at least an inch long and often irregular in length from fiber to fiber to help create a soft and cushiony surface. Think of sinking your feet into the indulgent softness of velvet, but with the durability to handle daily life.
Available in a range of materials—from budget-friendly synthetics like polyester and polypropylene to the timeless luxury of wool—shag rugs have reemerged as an easy-to-care-for and stylish design choice. Here are a few more reasons why we love shag rugs:
- Acoustics: Plush rugs like shag have excellent sound-absorbing properties, helping to reduce echo and noise levels—making them ideal for spaces where conversation and relaxation are key, such as living rooms and family rooms.
- Long-Lasting Enjoyment: Despite their soft texture, high-pile rugs are built for durability. Many high-quality options are designed to withstand daily wear and maintain their luxurious feel over time.
- Complements All Design Styles: From modern minimalism to bright bohemian, these plush rugs complement a wide range of interior styles. Whether you prefer neutral tones for a sophisticated look or bold colors for a striking statement, they can pair with any decor.
How To Style a Shag Rug
Styling a shag rug is all about balance. Their bold texture and laid-back charm make them a statement piece, so they work best when paired with furniture and accents that let them shine without overwhelming the space. Here’s how to strike that perfect harmony:
- Let Texture Lead: Shag rugs are already doing the most in the texture department—so let them take center stage. Pair them with smoother surfaces like soft linen drapes, wooden accents, or a knit throw to keep it cohesive.
- Keep Your Color Story Simple: When styling with a shag rug, less is often more. Opt for a palette that complements your rug’s tone—whether it’s warm neutrals, moody hues, or bright jewel tones. A neutral shag rug can ground a vibrant room, while a colorful or patterned shag can become the star in a more muted setting.
- Embrace the Modern Retro Vibe: One of the reasons shag rugs feel so current is their versatility. They work just as well with clean-lined, contemporary furniture as they do with mid-century or boho-inspired pieces. Try mixing and matching your pieces for a blended design.
- Consider Size and Shape: Larger shag rugs feel luxurious in open spaces—under a bed, sectional, or dining table—while smaller styles can add a hint of cozyness in tighter areas like reading nooks or bathrooms. Don’t be afraid to go round, either. A circular shag rug under a coffee table can be a perfect touch.
- Layer with Intention: Yes, you can layer a shag rug. If your plush rug features a pop of color or texture, layer it over a flat-weave or low-pile rug in a neutral tone for extra depth. This works especially well in larger rooms or spaces with open floor plans where you want to define a specific zone.
Zoning with Purpose
With a natural shaggy appearance, shag rugs were originally made with goat’s hair, but they’ve evolved over time. Shag rugs are woven or tufted using high-pile techniques that create their signature softness and thickness. Some of the most common materials include:
- Wool: Naturally soft, durable, and insulating, wool shag rugs offer warmth and longevity.
- Polyester: A budget-friendly option that delivers vibrant color and stain resistance.
- Polypropylene: Known for its resilience and easy maintenance, making it great for high-traffic areas.
- Cotton or Cotton Blends: 50:50 cotton wool blends are a popular option for a slightly less expensive, yet soft and comfortable natural fiber.
Where to Place a Shag Rug
Because of their high pile, shag rugs can more easily trap dirt and dust. Because of that, you don’t want to place these rugs in highly trafficked spaces, such as entryways and hallways.
Instead, encourage relaxation by placing these rugs in rooms where you walk barefoot or lounge, such as in your bedroom so you have sinking comfort when you step out of bed in the morning, or under your living room couch for an indulgent and cozy space. You can also try pairing smaller plush rugs in a bathroom to warm up those cold tiles, or in an office to create an inviting vibe.
How To Care For Shag Rugs
To keep your shag rug looking and feeling its best, follow these simple care tips:
- Regular Vacuuming: Use a vacuum with a high-pile setting to remove dirt and debris without damaging the fibers.
- Spot Cleaning: Address spills immediately by blotting with a clean cloth and mild detergent.
- Rotation: Rotate your rug every few months to ensure even wear and prevent flattening in high-traffic areas.
- Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning, consider professional rug cleaning to maintain the rug’s integrity and softness over time.
Invite Cozy Luxury Into Your Home With Jaipur Living
Shag rugs are more than just a design choice—they’re a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re drawn to their cozy appeal, durability, or sink-your-feet-into-comfort, shag rugs are the perfect addition to your bedrooms and living spaces.
Fusing traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance, invite comfort and relaxation into your living spaces with Jaipur Living’s collection of plush, shag rugs.
