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Beyond ChiavariEvent Rentals · Chicago

Chair comparison

Wishbone vs Mid-Century Shell: Which Chair to Rent?

Wishbone Chair is scandinavian lines with a woven cord seat. Mid-Century Shell Chair is molded shell, wood legs, modern and comfortable. Here is how they compare on cost, comfort, weather and where each looks best.

Wishbone Chair for rent in Chicago: scandinavian lines with a woven cord seat. Shown in natural oak; also available in natural oak, black.
Wishbone Chair
Mid-Century Shell Chair for rent in Chicago: molded shell, wood legs, modern and comfortable. Shown in white; also available in white, terracotta, sage, black.
Mid-Century Shell Chair
Side by side: the Wishbone Chair (left) and the Mid-Century Shell Chair (right).

Side by side

FeatureWishboneMid-Century Shell
Estimated price$14–18 per chair$9–12 per chair
StylesMinimalist, Modern, BohoModern, Minimalist
Best forReception, Head tableReception, Corporate, Cocktail & lounge
CushionNoneNone
StackableNoYes
Outdoor friendlyIndoor or tentedYes

Choose the Wishbone if…

  • you want a boho look
  • it is for the head table

Choose the Mid-Century Shell if…

  • your budget matters: about $550 less per 100 chairs
  • you are outdoors or under a tent
  • fast setup and teardown matters, because it stacks
  • it is for the corporate or cocktail & lounge

What each looks like with the table

Wishbone Chair: pairs with loft venues, white linen, bud vases, neutral palettes.

Mid-Century Shell Chair: pairs with lofts, galleries, colorful florals, corporate dinners.

You can also mix them: use the more decorative chair at the head table and the lower-cost one for guests. That keeps the room photo-ready without paying premium rates on every seat.

Estimated rental cost for 100 chairs: Wishbone vs Mid-Century ShellBar chart: Wishbone Chair $1,400 to $1,800; Mid-Century Shell Chair $900 to $1,200 for 100 chairs.Wishbone$1,400–$1,800Mid-Century Shell$900–$1,200
Estimated rental for 100 chairs, from our per-chair estimates. Delivery and setup are quoted separately.

Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, the Wishbone or the Mid-Century Shell?

The Mid-Century Shell Chair ($9–12 per chair, estimated) costs less than the Wishbone Chair ($14–18). For 100 chairs the midpoint difference is about $550.

Which is better outdoors?

Mid-Century Shell Chair is the outdoor-friendly one. Ask about ground protection on soft lawn.

Can I use both in the same room?

Yes. Mixed sets are common, for example one style at the head table and another at guest tables. We will help you balance the look and budget on a free call.

Keep planning

Figures are planning rules of thumb and our own estimates, last reviewed 2026-11-01. Your venue's posted capacity, fire code and final quote always take precedence.

Free 15-minute planning call

Not sure what you need, or how much?

  • Quantities for your guest count and floor plan
  • Which chairs, tables and linens suit your venue
  • An honest estimate with delivery and setup itemized