Slipcovers are recommended to lengthen the life of your upholstery. They can be made at several levels of fit, from snug with piped seams (below right), to the loose cover common in the 18th century (pictured below left, in blue and white handwoven linen check.)

Known as a loose cover, typical of 18th century chairs, which does not have piping and can be slipped off without a zipper. Photo courtesy of Randy Wilkinson.

Snug slipcovers with piping and zippers.