The traditional Papasan, bought by the U.S. military men in 1970s-80s during the Vietnam War to the states as a gift for their wives, has undergone a tremendous change fitting to a more contemporary world now. Papasan, a bowl-shaped, cushioned chair having a definite 1970s feel to it, is admired by many for its quirky aesthetic though plenty are put off by its precarious-seeming nature having woken up stiff and contorted sleeping in it, in an unassuming fatal position for eight hours. The chair spells chic to some and uncomfortable for others. All said and done, reformed Papasan chairs have found place in households.

Lindsey Shook, editorial and brand director of “California Home + Design Magazine” says that she has noticed that the original Papasan shape has undergone a change and brands like Bend Goods and Baxter, are transforming it by playing more with metal finishes, cords, installing smaller pillows and changing the shape of the chair. The new Papasans are lightweight and easy to move about, having endless re-styling opportunities due to this new avatar. The cushions can be replaced and a colourful blanket can be added to the vintage change to give it a fresh face. The saucer-shaped Papasan chair have regained popularity due to its boho-chic style. The reinvented Papasan is modern, earthy while being comfortable and casual fitting to the youthful spirit at the same time.

Papasan goes by various names- the bucket chair, the saucer chair, the bowl chair, the moon chair, amongst others. Its name is a mixture of Japanese and English words though the chair was advertised by the Philippines for the first time.