While we always tout the benefits of switching up your throw pillows to transform your room and give new life to your space, we want to bring you back to the basics and show you just how to go about choosing sofa throw pillows in the first place. Whether it’s weighing your different options in terms of size, shape, texture or color, consider this your guide to choosing the best sofa throw pillows for your room.
Consider Size
When choosing throw pillows, one of the first things you’ll want to decide on is sizing. The size of your throw pillows can be used to create both a style and comfort level that’s ideal for your room. Standard square pillows, typically about 18 inches, sit neatly on sofas with typical dimensions. Oversize pillows, typically 24 inches or greater, create a more casual, lounge-like feel. For a modern sofa with a very low back, most experts suggest 16 inch throws.
Weigh Your Shape Options
While you might gravitate towards a more classic pillow shape—like square, know that you have a ton of different options. Square is a classic choice for sofas and chairs, but don’t be afraid to throw circular, neck roll, boudoir, and double boudoir pillows into the mix as well.
Choose by Concept
If you want a modern look, go for an odd number of pillows, like three or five and opt for a few large pillows instead of a number of smaller ones. Experts suggest one for a chair and three or five for a standard 88-inch sofa. This will create a more uniform, clean feel to your room. You’ll also want to stick to a limited color palette and strategically include a few geometric prints as well as tightly woven fabrics.
For a traditional look, choose four large pillows, two for each side of your sofa, to create a symmetrical look. In terms of fabric, go for something like velvet and silk as these invoke a classic feel.
For an eclectic look, choose three to five mixed fabric pillows to create a bohemian feel. You can play with sizes and colors, but make sure to pick similar size pillows to tie the room together, as well as having one common color throughout to pull things together.
Don’t Forget About Texture
When it comes to texture we love creating tactile contrast. Opt for textured linen against a smoother texture like leather or silk upholstery. Choose shiny pillows for a fuzzy couch; this way you’ll add warmth to the room and the couch will provide traction, so that the pillows won’t slide off the seats. Remember that the textures you choose will add to the ambiance of the room. Textures like velvet and faux fur create a luxe, sophisticated feel, while linen and cotton create a breezy, relaxed feel.
Switch It Up with Patterns, Sizes and Scale
Don’t be afraid to switch things up and mix patterns and sizes! Mixing sizes and shapes will instantly elevate your design and will guide the eye to move from element to element. Instead of styling your room with multiple patterns of the same size and intensity, try pairing a larger solid throw with two smaller printed ones or the other way around. When choosing a solid pillow to complement your textured ones, try and pick up one of the colors in the palette you’ve already created. Creating variety in your textures and sizes will keep you from fatiguing the eye with too many competing patterns and colors.
Choose Just the Pillow Covers
When shopping for throw pillows, remember that you can always swap out your pillow covers with the seasons or when your décor needs a refresh. Oftentimes, people like to choose cozier fabrics like velvet and faux fur for cold winter months, and then switch them out for a linen or cotton cover when the temperatures increase.
