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How to Mix and Match Throw Pillows

Published on:

4/04/18

written by:

Carrie Barker

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I have a confession to make … I used to struggle in the ‘mix and match throw pillows’ department! Coordinating throw pillows just didn’t come naturally to this home décor blogger!

I am still a work in progress, but I am getting much more comfortable with mixing and matching! It certainly helps that I now have some great pillow sources, and I will share these with you below!

Affiliate links are used in this post for your shopping convenience. Click here for my full disclosure policy.

mix and match throw pillows

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HOW TO MIX AND MATCH THROW PILLOWS

I don’t follow exact equations of how to mix and match throw pillows. With any decorating decision, I really just go with what feels RIGHT to me.

However, I imagine that you came here for a simple equation, so I’ve got one for you courtesy of Studio McGee! Shae McGee is a MASTER of throw pillow combos (IMO)! Her equation is the following:

ORGANIC + GEOMETRIC + SCALE + TEXTURE

Organic = nature inspired
Geometric = lines or repetitive geometric pattern
Scale = large or small scale pattern
Texture = velvet, fur, or embroidery

Ironically I put together this roundup of McGee and Co. pillows, and they just happen to fit into her equation! I’m giving myself a little pat on the back!

mcgee and co pillows

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INEXPENSIVE VS. SEMI-EXPENSIVE THROW PILLOWS

I have a new appreciation for higher quality throw pillows. I used to buy only inexpensive stock throw pillows (beautiful: yes … high quality: no), but I am now open to investing in slightly more expensive pillows with high quality fabrics that last for years!

Don’t get me wrong … I won’t buy uber expensive custom pillows, but I do think that mid-range priced pillows are definitely worth the investment!

THROW PILLOW INSERTS 101

Do keep in mind that many of the sources listed below sell pillow COVERS … you need to buy the insert separately. I buy all of my pillow inserts (feather or synthetic) through Williams Sonoma.

I prefer feather inserts because they are more flexible, but synthetic inserts are a great option if you are allergic to feathers or prefer a firmer pillow.

Make sure to purchase feather inserts one size larger than the pillow cover. Seems odd, but trust me on this one! If you buy a 22” x 22” pillow cover, purchase a 24” x 24” feather insert. You’ll thank me later!

serena and lily pillows

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FAVORITE THROW PILLOW SOURCES

McGee and Co.
Spark Modern
Dekowe Pillow Covers
Etsy (search for designer fabric pillow covers)
Serena and Lily
Sew + Cloth
Anthropologie
Lulu and Georgia
Arianna Belle
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn Teen
Danielle Oakey Shop
Caitlin Wilson
Williams Sonoma

Overall, throw pillows are an inexpensive way to change the look of any room! There honestly is no wrong way to mix and match throw pillows! We aren’t talking about surgery here! You can experiment with combos to see what YOU like … it’s all about trial and error!

I would love to hear what your favorite pillow sources are! Please comment below!

  1. I am VERY picky about matching, but I always have a very hard time matching whites! Sometimes they will be warm toned and sometimes cool toned, and unless I take a cover or swatch with me while looking, I will NEVER get them right. 🙁

  2. […] Learn more about coordinating pillows in HOW TO MIX AND MATCH THROW PILLOWS. […]

  3. […] How to Mix and Match Throw Pillows to learn some great pillow combinations and actionable tips! You can also shop the pillow boutique […]

  4. Thank you so much for including us in your list of favorite throw pillow sources!

  5. […] you still want more guidance on mixing patterns in pillows, this is a great tutorial by Caroline on […]

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I designed my own custom home from the ground up, inside and out. A home that is cozy, comfy, laid out perfectly for the way my family lives, and makes us happy every single day. Oh, and did I mention I did this all without blowing the budget?! 

Yep, it’s true. I’ve been there, done that, and actually lived through it … and you will too. Pinkie promise!

a.k.a. Caroline on Design

I’m Carrie Barker.

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