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View CartHow to Style Throw Pillows
how to style
throw pillows
New pillows are the easiest style refresh we know.
Get the designer look with our throw pillow ideas
and expert advice below. SHOP ALL PILLOWS
styling a sofa with throw pillows
As a good rule of thumb, the larger the sofa, the more pillows you can pile on.
We like to start with a base layer—the larger pillows at the back of the stack.
THE LOOK
balanced & tailored
A symmetrical throw pillow
arrangement keeps things feeling
orderly and polished on a loveseat.
THE LOOK
maximum plush
Lots of pillows in a mix of
patterns and colors for an extra
plush look that’ll comfort a crowd.
THE LOOK
modern texture mix
Create warmth and visual interest
with throw pillows in a mix of
different textures, all in soft hues.
THE LOOK
long & layered
Emphasize the length of your sofa
with a modern pairing of long
rectangular pillows layered together.
styling a bed with throw pillows
Gradually decrease pillow size from the back to the front and keep
at least the top third of your headboard visible above the pillows.
THE LOOK
pop of color
A well-placed pillow in a
vibrant hue can act as a
happy exclamation point.
styling outdoor throw pillows
Outdoor throw pillows bring comfort to your patio or backyard in
performance fabrics that’ll stay bright and true, season after season.
THE LOOK
outside coastal cool
A mix of simple, blue throw
pillows add a casually beachy
look to your outdoor oasis.
SHOP ALL DECORATIVE PILLOWS
FAQ
expert throw pillow styling advice
The most common throw pillow sizes are square throw pillows sized 18 x 18 inches or 20 x 20 inches.
Start with a color story to follow for your throw pillow selection. We recommend using three different colors pulled from around the room, and work from there.
Coordinating throw pillows should be placed on opposite sides of the sofa. We recommend going for a simple print with a busy print and a solid. Pillows can be placed on chairs, sofas and even arranged on the floor to create inviting lounge areas. Try a few different pillow ideas in the same room.
Throw pillows can match, but they don’t have to! Mixing pillow patterns and colors is visually appealing and adds depth and interest to your space. Consider a tonal palette if you want a more monochromatic look. To give your room a wow factor, think brightly colored pillows set against a backdrop of neutral furniture. You can also layer patterned pillows with solid pillows for additional flair.
No matter how you use them, decorative pillows soften the visual edges of a room and almost always make the space more inviting. Not only do throw pillows show off your personal decorating style, they are an affordable way to update decor and make a room look fresh.
If you have to move a mountain of pillows out of the way before sitting down, you probably have one too many. On average, a sectional is decorated with seven to nine throw pillows and a traditional sofa has three to five.
There is a lot of freedom for interesting pillow ideas on sectionals, where you have plenty of room to mix and match patterns and colors. You'll want to choose the right size, generally between 12" to 20", and mix and match pillow colors and patterns to accentuate your room’s decor. As you move towards the inside of the sofa, you’ll want your pillows to get smaller.
As a good rule of thumb, the larger the sofa, the more pillows you can pile on. We like to start with a base layer—the larger pillows at the back of the stack. Your throw pillows should enhance and compliment your furniture, not overwhelm it.
Gradually decrease pillow size from the back to the front and keep at least the top third of your headboard visible above the pillows. Most throw pillows will work, so long as it’s not longer than the length of your bed or taller than the headboard.
You’ll want your throw pillows to stretch the entire length of the bed, leaving at least one-third of the headboard exposed at the top. The bigger your bed, the more pillows you can comfortably fit.
Generally you won’t want more than two pillows on an accent chair, otherwise you’ll risk it looking overcrowded. Go for patterns or colors in a similar or complementary shade as your accent chair or the room around it.
Pick one common color to tie all of your decorative pillows together, but bring in different patterns, styles and shapes to keep things interesting. Consider a tonal palette if you want a more monochromatic look.
It all comes down to budget and comfort level. Typically feather down pillow inserts are softer, perfect for lounging. While down alternatives tend to be more firm and keep their shape—great for formal living rooms. For most throw pillows, we offer both options.
Switching out throw pillow covers is an easy way to refresh your home from season to season. Bright and colorful pillows complement sunny summer days; switch them out for warmer-toned pillows as the season moves into autumn. Try cotton and linen pillows when it’s hot outside, and velvet or embellished pillows during cooler seasons. In winter, you can make your room instantly festive with holiday pillows. Use different pillow ideas to capture the ambiance of the season.
For more throw pillow ideas and styling tips for your space, consult our pros at our Design Desk. Our professional 3D interior design services and tools are free for you to use in stores, at home or online.
Yes. Our indoor throw pillows ship free. Standard delivery only.
