The Ultimate Guide to Accent Pillow Sets: Styling Tips & Where to Buy

Want to easily give your home a stylish upgrade? Accent pillows are your secret weapon! This guide covers everything from finding the perfect fabrics and designs to arranging them like a pro. Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, we’ll help you make your home cozy and gorgeous – one perfectly placed pillow at a time!

Enhancing Your Home with Accent Pillows

Accent pillows are the jewelry of your furniture, adding pops of color, texture, and personality to any space. They offer a budget-friendly way to refresh a room without major renovations. This guide will walk you through choosing, styling, and caring for accent pillow sets, transforming your home into a stylish haven.

Discovering Your Perfect Pillow

Before you start shopping, consider your existing décor. Is your style cozy farmhouse, sleek minimalist, or bohemian chic? This will guide your choices in color, texture, and pattern.

For a farmhouse aesthetic, natural fabrics like linen or cotton in muted tones with simple patterns like stripes or checks work well. Minimalist spaces benefit from solid colors and clean lines in neutral shades. For bohemian style, embrace rich jewel tones, intricate patterns like ikat or paisley, and plush textures like velvet or faux fur.

Beyond style, consider size and shape. Standard square pillows (around 16×16 inches) are versatile, but mixing in rectangular, round, or bolster pillows adds visual interest. Combining different textures, like a chunky knit with smooth velvet, creates a dynamic look.

Sourcing Your Dream Pillows

Finding the right pillows is an adventure! Numerous online and brick-and-mortar stores offer options for every budget.

Retailer Style Price Range Shipping Info
Target Budget-friendly, Trendy, Variety $$-$$$ Usually free shipping over a certain amount, plus in-store pickup
Wayfair Huge Selection, Something for Everyone $$-$$$$ Free shipping is common, and they often have quick delivery options
Pottery Barn Classic, Upscale $$$-$$$$ Check their website for current shipping deals
World Market Unique, Global Finds $$-$$$ Shipping varies, so it’s best to check their site
Bed Bath & Beyond Wide Variety, Home Goods Galore $-$$$$ Look out for their frequent coupons and sales
Home Depot Home Decor, Practical Styles $-$$$$ Might have seasonal sales, worth checking around holidays
Local Boutiques & Craft Fairs One-of-a-Kind, Handmade Varies Often support local artists! Check for shipping options or in-person pickup.
Crate & Barrel High-quality materials, unique designs $70 – $200+ Check their website for current shipping deals and promotions.
Etsy Unique, handmade, supports small businesses $30 – $150+ Shipping times and costs vary by seller.
West Elm Modern, stylish, quality craftsmanship $$-$$$ Check their website for shipping information and any ongoing promotions.
Levtex Home Variety of styles, often found in department stores $$-$$$ Shipping policies may vary depending on the retailer.
JCPenney Affordable, classic styles, wide selection $$-$$$ Look for sales and promotions, especially around holidays.
At Home Large selection, budget-friendly $$-$$$ Check for shipping costs and in-store availability.
Rooms To Go Furniture and decor, coordinated sets $$-$$$ Check their website for shipping information and current deals.
Ann Gish Luxury linens and pillows, high-end designs $$$$ Check their website for shipping details and potential lead times.

Don’t forget to check out air mattress vs folding mattress what is more comfortable for insights on choosing the right sleeping solution and consider the luxurious relaxation of an alcove soaking bathtub.

Look out for sales, especially around holidays!

Styling Your Pillows Like a Pro

Styling your pillows is where the magic happens. Here’s a simple approach:

  1. The Foundation: Start with two larger pillows in coordinating colors or patterns to anchor the arrangement.
  2. Layer It Up: Add smaller pillows in contrasting patterns, textures, or colors to create depth.
  3. Mix and Match: Play with different shapes, sizes, and fabrics, maintaining visual harmony. Start simple and gradually add elements.
  4. Consider Your Furniture: Your pillows should complement your furniture’s color and style.

Using an odd number of pillows (three or five) often creates a more visually pleasing arrangement. Asymmetry can add character.

Pillow Care 101

To keep your pillows looking their best, regular spot cleaning is essential. For deeper cleaning, always check the care instructions. Some pillows are machine washable, while others require dry cleaning. Preventative care will extend their lifespan.

Choosing the Right Accent Pillow Sets

Accent pillows are a simple yet powerful way to elevate your home decor. Choosing the right set depends on understanding your style and how to coordinate elements effectively.

Creating a Cohesive Look

Your accent pillows should enhance your existing décor. Consider the room’s overall vibe – modern minimalist, cozy farmhouse, bohemian chic – and select pillows that harmonize with the theme. For example, geometric patterns suit modern spaces, while plush textures in natural tones complement farmhouse aesthetics.

Color, Pattern, and Texture

Color sets the mood. Monochromatic palettes create a calming atmosphere, while complementary colors energize the space. Accent pillows can introduce pops of color or tie a color scheme together. Patterns add personality. Mixing geometric and floral prints or varying scales creates visual interest.

Texture adds another layer of depth. Consider the luxurious feel of velvet, the breezy lightness of linen, or the cozy warmth of faux fur. Interplay between different textures enhances the design.

Size and Shape Considerations

Larger pillows anchor a sofa or bed, while smaller pillows add accents. A balanced look is crucial. Mixing square, rectangular, and round pillows adds dimension. Too many small pillows can make a space look cluttered.

Budget-Friendly Decorating

Creating a stylish space doesn’t require a fortune. Swapping pillow covers seasonally refreshes the look without buying new sets. Look for sales and clearance items.

The Studio McGee Method

For a professional approach to pillow arrangement, consider the Studio McGee method:

  1. Define Your Palette: Choose two to three primary colors.
  2. Foundation Pillows: Start with larger pillows in a solid color or subtle pattern.
  3. Organic Pattern: Add a pillow with a natural design (floral, leafy).
  4. Geometric Pattern: Introduce a pillow with a geometric pattern for contrast.

Key Considerations

  • Harmony with Décor: Pillows should complement existing style.
  • Color and Pattern: Use color and pattern to set the mood.
  • Texture: Mix and match textures for depth.
  • Size and Shape: Choose appropriate sizes for balance.
  • Budget: Stylish doesn’t have to be expensive.

Styling Accent Pillows Like a Pro

Accent pillows can transform a room. Here’s how to style them like a design pro.

Playing with Color and Pattern

Consider your sofa or bed’s color. Neutrals offer a blank canvas for pillows to either blend in or create a bold contrast. If your sofa is vibrant, choose pillows that complement or contrast pleasingly. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, but keep the room’s overall style in mind.

Size and Number

Varying pillow sizes creates depth. Odd numbers often look balanced. The ideal number depends on furniture size. Don’t overwhelm the furniture.

Arranging Your Pillows

Layering is key. Place larger pillows at the back and layer smaller ones in front. Overlapping adds depth. Group pillows in odd numbers and experiment with arrangements.

Showcasing Your Style

Accent pillows express your personality. Whether you prefer bright colors, neutral palettes, bohemian patterns, modern designs, or farmhouse vibes, let your pillows reflect your taste.

Decorating on a Budget

You don’t need a fortune for stylish accent pillows. Explore budget-friendly options, sales, discount stores, and online marketplaces. Pillow covers offer an affordable way to update your look. DIYing covers adds a personal touch.

Pillow Inserts and Covers

High-quality inserts hold their shape and make pillows look plump. Removable covers protect inserts and allow easy updates.

Common Mistakes

  • Pillow Overload: Too many pillows can clutter the space.
  • Ignoring Texture: Mix in textured pillows for visual appeal.
  • Clashing Styles: Be mindful of the room’s overall style.

Key Takeaways

  • Coordinate pillow colors with your décor.
  • Mix patterns and textures.
  • Use varied pillow sizes.
  • Arrange pillows in odd numbers and layers.
  • Decorate affordably.
  • Invest in quality inserts and removable covers.

Caring for Your Accent Pillows

Accent pillows need care to stay looking their best. Here’s how to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Decoding the Care Label

The care label is your guide. Different fabrics and fillings require different care. Check the label before cleaning.

Everyday Upkeep

Regular vacuuming removes dust and dirt. Spot cleaning prevents stains from setting. Blot, don’t rub, stains.

Deep Cleaning

For machine-washable pillows, use a cold, gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry when possible. Delicate pillows may require hand washing in cool water with mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely.

Handling with Care

Avoid tugging or pulling pillows, which can damage fabric and shape. Fluff pillows regularly to maintain plumpness.

Storage Smarts

Store pillows in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Breathable storage bags prevent dust mites and moths.

Pillow Inserts

Choose inserts slightly larger than the covers for a fuller look. Consider fill material (down, feather, synthetic).

Preventing Problems

Rotate pillows regularly to minimize sun exposure and ensure even wear. Address spills promptly.

Key Takeaways

  • Vacuum regularly.
  • Spot clean stains.
  • Check care labels.
  • Handle gently.
  • Store properly.
  • Choose larger inserts.
  • Avoid direct sunlight.

Buying Accent Pillow Sets Online

Accent pillows can transform a space without breaking the bank. Here’s how to find the perfect sets online.

Finding Your Style

Before shopping, determine your preferred aesthetic (modern, farmhouse, bohemian). Consider existing colors, patterns, and textures. Choose pillows that complement your current décor.

Materials Matter

Consider the feel of different materials. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are breathable. Velvet adds elegance. Faux fur adds coziness. Choose durable materials if you have kids or pets.

Size and Shape

Standard square pillows are versatile. Rectangular lumbar pillows offer support. Round or bolster pillows soften a room’s look. Create balance by mixing sizes and shapes. Odd numbers of pillows are often visually appealing.

Where to Shop

Retailer Pros Cons Price Range Key Styles
Crate & Barrel High-quality, unique designs Can be expensive $$$ Modern, sophisticated
Amazon Vast selection, competitive pricing Quality can vary $-$$$ Wide variety
Target Affordable, stylish Limited selection compared to others $-$$ Classic, farmhouse, modern
Wayfair Huge variety, frequent sales Can be overwhelming to navigate $-$$$$ Wide range
Etsy Unique, handmade, supports small businesses Can be pricier, longer shipping times $$-$$$ Bohemian, eclectic, personalized

Pillow Care

Regularly vacuum and spot clean your pillows. Always check care labels before washing. Proper storage will prolong their lifespan.

Final Thoughts

Accent pillows enhance home décor. Consider your style, choose suitable materials, experiment with sizes and shapes, and happy decorating!

Mark Soldy