Whether redecorating an Alpine chalet, a rural Montana ranch or a countryside cottage, a cowhide rug provides a rustic-glam home aesthetic.
Beloved for a romantic rodeo feel and nostalgic charm, the eye-catching rugs have been coveted by decor enthusiasts for centuries to add a Western touch to any room.
North American and African native tribes traditionally used the skins as protective coverings for their homes, in addition to clothing, accessories and general body decoration. Today, the hypo-allergenic hides have taken on a new cachet in the world of interiors, adorning the abodes of textile aficionados and luxury lovers across the globe. After all, Rihanna reportedly requests an animal print rug in her rider when she tours.
However, for many, cowhide rugs are difficult to wrap one’s head around. In today’s political climate, the use of animal skin for decoration isn’t the most couth. With an increased interest in animal rights and sustainability, it’s hard to know where animal skins slot into the ethical equation.
Cue faux cow hides, which have been slowly but surely cropping up on websites from Ruggable to Dunelm. A fraction of the cost of their real counterparts with no abattoir action required, the so-called ‘vegan’ rugs are gaining popularity among budding home decor enthusiasts.
Real or not, the pieces are highly versatile. Cowhides come in a wide range of prints and colourways, spanning light caramel tans to distinct black and white designs. Faux options also tend to replicate the realistic silhouette of a cowhide, ensuring the chic nature of the rugs isn’t sacrificed in the name of ethics.
Discover the best faux cowhides and transform your space into a timeless Western-style wonder.
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Ruggable Brown & Black Faux Cowhide Rug (75cm x 215cm)
Perfect for smaller spaces, Ruggable’s faux cowhide runner comes in five colourways to elevate your home interior.
Buy now £209.00, Ruggable
NativeSkins Faux Cowhide Rug (140cm x 200cm)
Available for rapid next-day delivery, NativeSkin’s faux suede rug comes with a non-slip backing and a striking cow print design to command attention in your living room.
Buy now £62.99, Amazon
Dunelm Faux Cow Print Rug (130cm x 155cm)
Inject some faux fur funk into your space with Dunelm’s realistic cowhide rug. Featuring a generous size and stain-resistant finish, the piece is ideal for homes where kids and pets reside.
Buy now £55.20, Dunelm
Beliani Faux Cowhide Area Rug (150cm x 200cm)
Add a tinge of rustic romance to your home. Beliani’s uber-realistic rug will recreate the magic of authentic skin, yet ensure your moral compass isn't compromised. Place yours in your bedding or sitting room for a cosy touch.
Buy now £149.99, Beliani
La Redoute Dottie Cowhide Effect Rug (155cm x 190cm)
Water-resistant and hardy, this cowhide effect rug will floor guests. Spread the ranch-ready piece across any room and saturate your home with personality.
Buy now £150.00, La Redoute
Robert Dyas Faux Hide Warm Brown (190cm x 155cm)
Large and luxurious looking, Robert Dyas’ elegant rug is carefully produced using the latest print technology to create a realistic finish. Pair with rattan furniture and a scatter of cushions to create a textured interior that looks magazine-ready.
Buy now £77.99, Robert Dyas
BENRON Premium Cowhide Rug (140cm x 158cm)
Any seasoned rug hunter will know that the household essential doesn’t come cheap, which is why the price of Amazon’s cowhide replica is such a pleasant surprise. For under £50, you can fill your home with retro Western charm. Yeehaw.
Buy now £40.98, Amazon
Gracie Oaks Animal Print Machine Woven Cowhide Area Rug (150cm x 200cm)
Kick back in your cowboy boots and admire your new statement rug. Gracie Oaks’ elegant rug is the perfect blend of novelty and taste. A cream-mocha design will suit a myriad of homes, from student houses to stylish suburban pads.
Buy now £149.99, Wayfair
Asiatic Carpets Texas Faux Cowhide Chromajet Print Rug Grey (190cm x 240cm)
Take your home office to new heights with animal print pizzaz. This digitally printed faux cowhide on a polyester anti-slip base will draw the room together, whether your interior style is mid-century, rustic or modern.
Buy now £171.00, Olivia's
