It shipped faster than expected, and is better than I expected, too (a rare occurrence in these days of online purchases). The carpet covering the base, levels and top seat are covered in a soft, speckled tan and darker brown shag; the vertical posts are wrapped in tight-weave tan carpet, and the rope is not simply wound around the pole (as in Wayfair's photo). Instead, it's braided in an attractive checker board pattern of light brown and medium brown rope. --- With that said, I have a feeling that the carpet combinations are the luck of the draw. Also, it will take a few days for the 'new carpet' smell to dissipate (no big deal, really).