Orange and blue is the most common complementary color pairing. Red and green are opposites on the color wheel. Yellow and purple is the boldest combination of complementary colors. Use black and white if you already have a lot of colors going on in your space. You can also choose your pillows according to the time of the year, with darker and earthy tones for winter and paler tones for summer and spring. [2] X Expert Source Karen ParzialeHome Stager & Interior Designer Expert Interview. 21 April 2020.
Warm neutrals are in the brown family with undertones of red, orange, and yellow. Cool neutrals are in the gray family with undertones of blue and green. Neutrals can include natural fiber pillows, like jute, and navy blue.
Your favorite painting features a large tree. Choose pillows in shades of green to draw your guests’ eyes to that same painting. The rug under the coffee table has a deep color of plum that you’ve always wanted to bring out. Choose pillows in shades of that same plum to give your rug its due. Use a color that’s already in your space to make the room feel cohesive. They don’t have to exactly match as long as they are the same hue.
Use a variety of solid colors or keep it monochromatic. For example, use various shades of blue.
Large prints have bolder designs and less repetition. Small prints have small to tiny designs and have more repetition.
Look for pillows that have different textures, such as ropes or beads. Have a focal pillow based on the season. You may have a Christmas-themed pillow in the winter or a flowery pillow for spring.
Velvet is classic and regal in bold primary colors and can soften a look in pastels. Cottons and linens are crisp and modern. Faux fur gives the room a cozy den-like feel. Oblong, rectangular, and circular pillows can add whimsy to your look.
Use an even number of pillows for a traditional look, 1, 2 or 3 on each side. If you are after a more eclectic look, choose an odd number of pillows and have different amounts on each side of the couch.
