Throw Pillow Decor Ideas Inspired by These Stylish Interiors
SOS GUIDES
There’s an art to mixing and matching throw pillows, and when it’s done right, pillow decor can add so much character to a space. The problem is – which throw pillows go together? We’ve taken all the guesswork out of it and assembled groupings of throw pillows that look fabulous together — in a broad range of styles. We want to make it easy to add unique colorful, patterned, and textured throw pillows onto your couches, chairs and beds.
Overview of Pillow Decor
Image: @aconsideredspace
To Throw Pillow Or Not To Throw Pillow
Opinions on throw pillows diverge widely – with some believing they are completely unnecessary and that the rest of the decor in a space should do the heavy lifting, or some who believe that a space is never complete without a plump grouping of pillows. Somewhere in between probably makes the most sense — throw pillows don’t have to be all or nothing, and you can decide on a case by case basis given the exact space and your mood.
If there’s enough visual interest in a space already, throw pillows don’t need to be forced just for the sake of it. It’s perfectly fine not to use them, or you can throw on a single accent pillow. It also depends on the vibe you want - if ‘more is more’ is your thing, then feel free to layer pillows in addition to other decorative elements. Comfort is a factor as well – particularly in areas that are designated for hanging out, a nice pile of throw pillows can create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.
Image: Amanda Brooks (via House & Garden UK)
Image: Robert Kime
Picking a Style & Color Palette
Generally speaking, you’ll want to pick throw pillows that fit with the overall style and coloring of the room. This does not mean the pillows have to match the other decor exactly. As an example, if it’s a more formal, traditional space, then the decorative pillows should be in keeping with that aesthetic — for example, pillows that are more luxurious with an ornate detail.
In terms of coloring, start by assessing the overall palette of the room. Are the colors earthy, rich tones, or monochromatic? Stick within this color palette when choosing throw pillows. If there are multiple colors in a room, one trick is to choose one or two of them — even if it’s a less prominent color, in say, the carpet — to pull out in the pillows.
Arranging Throw Pillows
As stated above, the number of throw pillows and how they’re arranged can have a big effect on how the look comes to life. There are many different ways to arrange pillows — from a single centered pillow to symmetrical groupings to random assortment. For each of the groupings below, we suggest some possible arrangements along with inspiration.
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Throw Pillow Decor Ideas
Below we’ve grouped throw pillows by style and coloring. You pretty much can’t go from mixing and matching any pillows from these collections. While there is thought put into how the pillows work together in terms of style and coloring, part of the art of mixing and matching pillows is having an element of surprise — one pillow that’s a little bolder than the others, pillows that might seem to clash but that’s what makes the combination striking. So, we strongly urge you to step out of your comfort zone and take a little risk. A strong throw pillow game can be exponential in terms of adding character and warmth to a room.
Stripes & Florals
While floral and striped throw pillows might seem at odds, they are brought together by a shared color palette and romantic sensibility. Start with stripes and large print florals, then add an accent pillow that’s either a solid, or a floral or stripe with a different color background and/or smaller scale print.
Image: Caroline Irving’s Paris apartment
Image: Caroline Irving
Style
Romantic with a flair for exotic lands (and textiles)
Color palate
Rich, deep colors like burgundy, goldenrod yellow, oxford blue, forest green
How to implement
A single one of these pillows makes a statement on its own. In groupings, we’d suggest laying them out symmetrically, layering the two prints and putting the accent pillow in the center.
Not So Basic Neutrals
Layering monochromatic throw pillows creates a soothing space on a bed or sofa. However, these pillows are anything but basic and boring with interesting textures or simple patterns that add richness and character. Each pillow — or set of pillows — should be unique to create even more visual interest.
Image: Amber Lewis Interiors
Image: Amber Lewis Interiors
Style
Laid-back minimalism
Color palate
Neutrals like cream, beige, accented with indigo blue or mustard
How to implement
For a sofa, group 2-4 throw pillows with varied sizes and shapes in each corner. For beds, symmetry works best — pair two matching pillows with an accent pillow in front.
Luxe & Rich
Thanks to rich tones, luxurious fabrics like velvet and fine wool, and intricate decorative elements like tassels and trim, this grouping of pillows offers a regal, high-end look. Ideal in living rooms or libraries where you want to create a little extra drama. We suggest a mix of solid pillows and subtly patterned pillows with at least one bold print in each grouping.
Image: Beaverbrook Townhouse in London. Design by Nicola Harding and Co. Photo by Paul Massey.
Image: Studio Ashby
Style
Traditional with a polished sophistication
Color palate
Rich jewel tones like mustard, teal, ruby red
How to implement
You can opt to arrange the throw pillows symmetrically layering complimentary prints on top of each other. Or you can scatter a random grouping of throw pillows with a mix of prints and solids.
Boho Textiles
Pairing indigo mudcloth, shibori and ikat dyed textile pillows creates a cool, laid back vibe. Handmade in East Asia and Africa with natural dyes and specialized techniques passed down by generations, these richly colored and textural pillows emit warmth and character. Use individual pillows to add dimension to neutral spaces or a grouping to create cozy nooks.
Image: Amber Lewis Interiors
Image: Amber Lewis Interiors
Style
California boho
Color palate
Denim blues, rich browns, black and white
How to implement
These pillows don’t need to be arranged in any particular way. The less arranged, the better. Just pile together different textiles, shapes and sizes.
Country Charm
This playful combo of prints has a decidedly country chic feel. The look relies on a panoply of classic prints including florals, dashes, cheetah, French lattice stripes, and paisley. The thread that binds them is quite literally the red hue they all share. Pick at least two prints to create a grouping or up to four – a mix of prints with a red background and off-white background will blend most seamlessly.
Image: Cutter Brooks Shop
Image: Bonny Neiman
Style
Traditional with a country feel
Color palate
Deep red with off-white or black background
How to implement
To balance out the business of the prints, we suggest sticking with a symmetrical arrangement, layering the different sets of pillows (with smaller pillows in the front). If there’s a center, this is where you can put accent pillows in a contrasting print.
Brilliant Pattern
Color and print work together to create a classic yet relaxed pillow decor. Each of the throw pillows are printed with flower motifs or other designs. The look really gets its pop from striking combinations of bold colors. The grouping is completed with one or two throw pillows with a larger scale print and contrasting white background.
Image: Lauren Santo Domingo
Image: Jamini
Style
Refined bohemian
Color palate
Clear bold colors, like apple green, pink, golden yellow, cerulean blue
How to implement
A loose arrangement of these throw pillows lends to the look of casual elegance. If you wanted, you could arrange them in a symmetrical fashion as well.
