When it comes to home decorating, contrast isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it creates visual interest and beauty and allows for greater versatility in home decor. Many shoppers become overwhelmed by the various choices when they peruse pillow selections, but with the assistance of this short guide there is no reason to be.

How to Create Stylish Contrast

It is entirely possible for rooms to be too harmonized. When everything matches and nothing pops, the room has a tendency to become boring and disengaging. While the solution may be more challenging, it can sometimes simply call for a little controlled contrast. The easiest way to accomplish this is through the use of pillows. Consider the following:

Size: Are all of your pillows the same size and shape? Mix things up by including oversized pillows, lumbar pillows, circular pillows, and other unique shapes. Standard squares are great for comfort, but not always the best stylistic choice.Layering pillows of different size and shape is a great way to soften the look and add depth, especially on large sofas ans sectionals.

Color: Adding unique colors is the easiest way to mix things up. Try using multiple primary colors or a unique palette of closely related shades. Then, in the middle of the sea of continuity, throw in a strong color like red, yellow, or orange. Or try a monochromatic look punctuated by one or two strong accent colors. You'll be surprised at just how stunning the effect can be.

Texture: Many people think size and color are the only ways to mix things up; however, don’t forget about texture. Think of your room’s pillows as a family. They should be related, yet unique. It’s okay to combine things like silky upholstery, smooth leather, fuzzy fabric, and soft cotton. Heavier, courser fabric pillows such as tapestries can be placed behind soft and inviting pillows. It can be a great look.

Pattern: One clever way to create stylish contrast is to work with different patterns using the same color palette. For example, the pillows in your living room may be a brown cream color, but some might have stripes, others a floral design, and others plaid. These pairings create a subtle and controlled contrast that’s still noticeable. (The opposite can also be true; you can use pillows of the same pattern, but with different colors.)

At Pillow Décor, we offer unique and stylish pillows to meet all of your design needs. Whether you’re looking for contrast or continuity, we can help. Feel free to shop around, and please let us know if you have any questions!