Want an instant makeover for your bedroom?

Throw pillows!

Want to change up the vibe of your living room?

Throw pillows!

Want to make your family room feel brighter and lighter?

Throw pillows!

I have a healthy obsession with throw pillows. So as you can tell this post is all about decorating with them! I’ve done some research on this topic and put together 6 tips to help you decorate with throw pillows like a BOSS! Plus, I’ve put the Refined Ambiance touch on it, you won’t see any $150 throw pillows here! All my links to throw pillows are under $80!

By the time you’re done reading this, you will have the tools necessary to set off on a fearless pursuit to make your space look cohesive, brighter and full of life.

Let’s get started!

Tip 1: Pick a dominant color

The first tip on decorating with throw pillows is sourced from a post on My Domaine. If you have a piece of furniture or rug that is the dominant color, select pillows that mirror that color. In the photo above from Glamy E-Design Studio, the pillows echo some of the colors in the accent chair and artwork.

Bonus Tip: Follow the rule of 3. If a color is repeated three times, it becomes a pattern. So if the color is duplicated in the artwork, pillow pattern, and accent chair; it will create a cohesive look to your space.

Tip 2: Select Your Color then change up the texture (or pattern)

This tip sourced from Architectural Digest favors multiple textures over multiple colors. The picture below shows how you can take one solid pillow, then mix patterned pillows of the same color.

Bonus Tip:This is probably one of the easiest methods to pull off when decorating with throw pillows.

Tip 3: Pillow Size Matters

Go big or go home is my motto! Pictured below are 24″ throw pillows from Modish Decor Pillows. 24″ is not necessary. You can still get a polished look when decorating with throw pillows, that are at minimum 20″.

Bonus Tip: Having varying sizes, by throwing in a lumbar pillow with a cool material like leather/faux leather helps create visual interest.

Tip 4: Mix and Match

Now this is an area where I struggle, but I am actively working to step my mix and match game up! According to Studio Mcgee you should do the following:

1. Start with the Organic print – This pattern has movement, curves and is inspired by nature. This print is often multi-colored (but it doesn’t have to be).
2. Move to the Geometric – Lines, grids, and repetition. This balances out the movement of the organic print.   
3. Pick something with contrasting Scale – Really large or really small, just make sure the size of the print is a stark contrast to one of the others selected. 
4. Texture – This is something we see a lot of pillow schemes missing! Velvets, metallics, furs, and embroideries add much needed warmth to any design.

Below is a great visual of how to mix and match!

Tip 5: Make A Vision Board Before Purchasing

If you are tech savvy and can handle it, try making a moodboard of your space prior to purchasing your throw pillows. Doing this avoids buyer’s remorse and returns. I like to make mine with user friendly apps like Morpholio. The picture below is a great example.

Tip 6: Be Budget Conscious

Below are some of the best sources for reasonably priced throw pillows and covers:

• Discounters stores like Marshalls’s, TJ Maxx, Ross, & Homegoods.
• Target– They have pillows for every design esthetic and some of the most amazing inserts for cheap!
• IKEA – They have tons of pillow covers from $3 to $12 along with super affordable inserts.
• Modish Decor Pillows -Small Business Black Owned, Huge selection of pillows or options for just the covers under $79.
• Wal-Mart – huge selection of both pillows and covers, many under $25
• World Market – they have some great pillows for under $10.
• At Home– They have great pillows under $40.
• Lah Lah Land Home Decor ShopSmall Business Black Owned, nice selection of pillows or options for just the covers under $70.

I hope you walk from this post feeling confident that you have the tools necessary to elevate your space. I have provided you with tips from experts, my own advice, and some options to source affordable throw pillows.

Do you have any tips for buying throw pillows? I would love it if you shared. Comment below!