How to Choose the Right Throw Pillows
Throw pillows — even their name implies they’re just a thing to be tossed around without much regard. But au contraire! When it comes to choosing the right accents for your space, throw pillows deserve so much more consideration.
In reality, it’s not uncommon for clients to tell me they’ve just tossed a pillow or two onto the sofa and called it good, especially if accent pillows are already included with their sofa purchase. But I’ve gotta be honest: In many cases, I’d throw those right out. Sure, maybe the prescribed throw pillows match the sofa, but that doesn’t mean it suits a cohesive design for your space, nor that it contributes to how you’d actually like to feel where you dwell.
No matter your style preferences, the throw pillows you choose can make a big impact on the vibe of your space. As an interior designer, I pay attention to even the finer details of furnishing a space. Throw pillows included. You can hire me to tackle that task for you! But if you’d rather curate a pillow collection yourself, this blog is for you – I’ll share some tips for selecting the right throw pillows for your space.
But first! Before we begin…
What's the overall design concept for your space? If you haven't figured that out yet, I highly encourage coming up with a cohesive visual guide. It's arguably the most important step in any design! If you'd like to have a professional handle that task (it's one I absolutely love!), you can book our Mini package and use your personalized design concept to inform all your purchasing decisions. (Seriously, it'll save you from overwhelm, decision fatigue, and buyer’s remorse!)
Once you have a cohesive design vision, consider these tips!
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT THROW PILLOWS
Consider size, shape, & placement
As you're determining which sizes to pick out, first consider the scale/dimensions of your furniture. If you're going for a cozy vibe, try layering mixed-sized pillows in sets of 3 in each corner of a sofa or sectional, and add a lumbar pillow or square-lumbar combo to each accent chair. More formal? Try a lightly-overlapped linear look with pillows of a single size, or skip throw pillows altogether if you have a bold statement-piece sofa. As for accent chairs, consider a round button pillow on each – or no additional pillows at all. Somewhere in between cozy and formal? Consider simple sets of two on the ends of a sofa, and a set of 3 in any sectional corners. Toss in a throw pillow or lumbar for each accent chair, if you'd like.
Studio McGee
Take in texture
Don't overlook the textures of your throw pillows! Layering textures adds depth and interest to a space, and the textures you choose can impact how the space feels overall. If you're going for a contemporary look, for example, consider incorporating a few different textures, like light linen, soft suede, and a chunky crochet/knit or embroidery. Feeling glam? Go bold with faux fur, silk, and some shimmer. For a classic or more formal space, consider textures like velvet, chenille, and linen.
Pottery Barn
Curate complementary colors & patterns
Rely on your cohesive design concept! Draw from the color scheme and patterns of the space as you make your throw pillow selections. For a fan-fave combo, consider a solid tone, variegated textile, and a pattern (one that adds interest without stealing the show). Or, keep things classy with solid colors in a carefully curated scheme. If you're looking to add some more creative character, consider playing with multiple patterns in a single space! There's a balance to be found between clutter and craft, though, so don't go overboard. For example, the perfect plaid and floral throw combo can add a playful touch to a classy coastal vibe. Be careful to consider the furnishings and other key accents in the space before finalizing your selections; if you have a patterned sofa, for example, you might want to stick with solids and textures over bold pillow patterns.
West Elm
Don't forget about function
Form and function are both essential to how your space makes you feel! So make sure your pillow selections are actually practical for your lifestyle. In my own home, I prefer buying throw pillow covers that I can remove and wash as needed (because babies and toddlers will be babies and toddlers). I also love changing up decor seasonally, and changing out pillow covers rather than whole pillows is a simple and space-savvy way to do so. You'll also want to consider any pet-friendly standards, like whether you'd despise fur collecting on velvet throws, for example. Also consider where your guests will sit and whether you might want to set any throw pillows aside when seating is actually in use. Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to have decorative accent pillows that are simply meant to complete a cohesive look when you aren't hosting. Just be sure to have a practical place to set aside any extra pillows as needed.
Have fun!
Have fun infusing your design preferences into the details! I encourage you to try something new and get creative with your throw pillow collection. If you find that you're not having all that much fun, let's connect. For a reasonable fee, I can quickly curate your throw pillow collection for you. And I promise to make sure you love it!
