Cost Effective Sofa Options

Recently, a couple of people asked me for some options on cost effective sofas, so I decided to put together a quick post on where I would look.  As far as websites/ retailers go, I would check:

West Elm
CB2 (very modern with low profiles, minimalist designs)
Pottery Barn - has a "Sofas $999 and lower" section
Crate and Barrel - narrow down your options according to price, fabric options, and size
Ballard Designs - although you can't visit the store...
Macy's - there's also a Macy's Home location in Costa Mesa, and the Midtown location in NYC has an entire floor dedicated to furniture

Other options:
Plummers
Costco - if you have a membership
Ikea

Here are some options I thought were nice:
West Elm - Henry Collection.  76" sofa starting from $699, and 86" sofa starting from $899.  Very classic, can't go wrong with any decor.

West Elm - Essex Collection.  84" sofa starting from $1,299.  Very chic, sophisticated.

West Elm - Lorimer Sofa.  81" sofa starting from $899.  For those seeking a sleek, minimalist decor.

Crate and Barrel - Petrie Apartment Sofa.  76" sofa starting from $1,499.  Mid-century modern look, bonus:  the fabric is stain resistant.

Crate and Barrel - The Nines Sofa.  85" sofa starting from $1,099.  Sleek and contemporary.

Pottery Barn - Buchanan Sofa.  87" sofa starting from $899.  Another classic sofa, not as contemporary because of the rolled arms.

Pottery Barn - Dylan Sofa.  83" sofa starting from $899.  Another sleek and contemporary sofa.

My thoughts:
1.  I usually don't like slipcovered sofas because once you wash the cover, it will no longer fit like a glove due to shrinkage, regardless of what the sales associate says.  Plus, upholstered sofas look so much nicer and tailored.
2.  Down wrapped cushions are slightly more in terms of cost, but very comfortable.
3.  Faux suede/ Microsuede is a great fabric option, I highly recommend it if you have children, pets, or a husband.  It is very durable, stain resistant, and small spills will bead on the surface allowing you to wipe it right off.
4.  Some fabrics have a stain resistant coating, it's probably best to ask the sales associate about the wear.
5.  Rolled arms lean towards the more traditional.
6.  Straight arms and lines lean towards the contemporary/ transitional.
7.  Low profiles lean towards the modern.
8.  Purchasing a big item such as a sofa in a neutral color allows you to design your home around other focal points instead of your eyes drawn straight to the sofa when you walk into the room.  If you want a brighter color, decorative pillows are a great option!  Plus you can change out the covers according to the season.
9.  If the smaller retail stores don't work for you, try Macy's.  They have a huge selection, great promotions... worth a try.
10.  Go to the store and sit on it!  Sofas are a huge investment, if you're like me, you have to touch and feel the real thing so you don't regret your purchase for years to come.

Happy hunting, and good luck!