How to get the styled throw pillow look

Throw pillows are the final touch that can make or break your couch or bed look. Too many and it looks cluttered, too few and the look is incomplete. Learn how to match the right colours, textures and patterns to create an inviting, styled feel in your home in three steps.

Decide on a number

What style are you going for? If eclectic, boho chic is your vibe, opt for odd numbers. Go for even numbers to create a more formal feel. Now take a look at the size of the couch, for example, and decide how many pillows you can work with. Generally three to five is a good number if you are going the uneven route or four to six for the more luxe look. When placing the pillows, work your way in from the corners.

Play with colours and textures

Let your creativity go wild here! If you are feeling overwhelmed by the choices, start by deciding on a colour palette. Take your favourite, pattern pillow and look at the colours featured. Try to find a one-tone, velvety plain pillow, for example, to accentuate a colour in the busy pillow. Generally it’s wise to go for one-tone, textured pillows (think cream fluffy shag, tan leather or emerald green velvet). Pattern and texture on the same pillow can be a bit much. Add another pillow with a gentle pattern (maybe small polka dots or soft shapes) to create more interest.

Size matters

When combining throw pillows, you want to create visual interest, not just with colour and patterns, but also with different sizes. Start by looking at the size of the furniture. If the throw pillow is too big, it will look unbalanced, if it is too small for the chair, couch or bed, it will look lost. Working with three different sizes is a good start. Start with the largest, suitable pillow and work your way down. Bring in different shapes for a touch of fun – start with two different sized rectangular shapes and add a little round pillow or a rectangular one.