Decorating with throw pillows is one of the easiest ways to add a stylish touch to your living room or bedroom space. With so many beautifully patterned and coloured options (affordable too), it is probably not best to stick to just one or two solid colours or even just the set that came along with your couch when you bought it.

It does not take designer skills to be able to mix and match your throw pillows to create an aesthetically pleasing and stylish home. There are a lot of different ways to mix and match throw pillows, and it’s true—sometimes it does take a practiced eye. It is possible, though, for a room in which not a single pillow matches another in colour, pattern, or style to still look incredibly polished and modern.

How to mix and match throw pillows to elevate your home style

Start with a solid foundation: Begin by selecting a neutral and versatile colour palette for your larger furniture pieces, such as sofas and chairs. This provides a solid foundation for your throw pillows and allows for more flexibility when experimenting with patterns and textures.

If you choose pillows in different patterns, the look will still be cohesive if they at least share the same colours.

How to mix and match throw pillows to elevate your home style

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A few examples of colour combinations that work well together:

  • Dark blue + deep red + pink
  • Deep red + orange + deep green
  • Magenta + violet + mustard yellow
  • Dark green + gold + magenta
  • Sage green + peacock blue + gold

Play with patterns: Mixing patterns can add depth and interest to your space. However, it’s essential to strike a balance. If you have a patterned sofa, opt for solid-coloured pillows in varying sizes to create contrast. Conversely, if your furniture is more neutral, introduce pillows with diverse patterns like stripes, florals, or geometric designs.

When following the rule of three, choose patterns in three different scales, allowing one pattern to dominate—you don’t want your patterns to compete with each other.

Colourful throw pillows on a couch

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Here are a few pattern-mixing ideas to try:

  • One floral + one geometric + one solid colour
  • One buffalo check + one toile + one ticking stripe
  • One chevron + one dotted + one knit texture

Texture is key: Incorporating different textures can add a tactile dimension to your décor. Combine smooth velvet with chunky knits, or pair embroidered pillows with those featuring a soft, brushed finish. This creates a sensory experience and adds warmth to the overall design.

Decorating with throw pillows

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Stick to odd numbers: When arranging throw pillows, odd numbers tend to be more visually appealing. Consider grouping pillows in sets of three or five to create a balanced and cohesive look. This allows for a mix of sizes, shapes, and patterns without overwhelming the space.

Colour coordination: While mixing and matching, pay attention to colour coordination. Choose a dominant colour from your existing décor as a base and introduce complementary or contrasting hues. This ensures that the throw pillows tie in seamlessly with the overall colour scheme of the room.

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