Let’s talk pillows: Designer Edition

By Jami Campbell, Jami Campbell Interiors

Introduction: The Importance of Pillows

Let’s talk pillows. Pillows are a finishing detail to every design. They are a great way to add color, texture, and character to a space. It doesn’t matter if you are styling a great room or a nursery, you are going to need pillows. There are tips and tricks specific to pillows that designers follow to give them that “designer look.” This post is going to delve into some of those things to note. 

Choosing Pillow Covers and Insert Sizes

I tell my clients, sometimes you can get away with a budget friendly pillow cover. Note I said pillow cover, not just throw pillow. I always recommend using pillow covers that allow you the freedom to put your own insert in them. For square pillows, I always use an insert that is at least one size bigger than the pillow cover itself. For example, for a 22x22 pillow cover size, I will use an insert that is a minimum of 24x24. This will give you that full designer look and not leave you with a droopy pillow that looks like it has lost all of its “umf.”  This rule only applies to square pillow sizes. For lumbar pillow sizes, you use the same size insert as the size of the color. 

Types and Advantages of Inserts

Speaking of inserts, opt for the feather down inserts and not the down alternative. The feather down inserts are not only more comfortable for lounging, but allow you to fluff them and give them that designer karate chop. 

Pillows combinations can give you a curated look when you mix and match colors, textures, sizes and patterns. Don’t throw 5 velvet pillows all the same size on your velvet sofa. Instead, maybe select two 22x22 linen pillows, a 20x20 stitched cotton pillow, and a 12x20 velvet lumbar. Pull your pillow colors from the rug or the art in the room. Start with a couple of solid color covers, maybe add a floral pattern, and a stripe or geometric pattern. Have fun and mix it up. 

Sometimes though you can accomplish a cool monochromatic moment when you layer similar tones in your pillows. I also love changing it up at times and going for an unexpected xl long lumbar on a sofa. 

Sizing and Practical Tips

When it comes to sizing, the size and shape of your furniture drives this. On large sectionals I love to place 24x24 large pillows on each end and in the middle. Then I will add a 22x22 in front of those and a lumbar to the middle section. On a bench sofa, I might put a 22x22 on each end, a 20x20 in front on one side and then a lumbar on the other end to give us that playful asymmetrical look. Don’t forget you can also add a throw pillow to any accent chair for an extra dose of comfort and style. 

Throw pillows are some of those pieces you get to have fun with! Don’t be afraid to go bold. These are easy things to swap out if you get tired of them and they aren’t as large as an investment or as hard to replace as some things. 

*All photographs credit: Jami Campbell

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