We love a mixed and matched pillow combination look… 

but choosing patterns, textures, and colors for the perfect pillow combination can be easier said than done.  

After curating hundreds of pillow combination looks, we’ve learned that it all comes down to identifying a color scheme, mixing pattern type and scale, and adding dimension with textural solids.  

In this post, we’re breaking down each step and sharing a few of our favorite examples to help you create your own. 

No. 1: Identify a color scheme  

Identifying a color scheme for your throw pillow combination will make the rest of the process much easier. We like to start by considering which accent colors we want to pull out or bring into the space. Throw pillows are a great way to introduce colors into a neutral space, create a new palette for changing seasons, or draw visual attention to complementing pieces throughout the room, like artwork or rugs.  

If you don’t have a specific color scheme in mind, take inspiration from your favorite patterned pillow and pull out colors from there to use as a jumping-off point.  

No. 2: Choose an organic print 

Organic pillow prints are often the most difficult to pair with others, so we like to choose them first. Organic prints have movement, curved, and are inspired by nature. This print is often multi-colored, but it doesn’t have to be! 

Organic printed pillows  

No. 3: Choose a geometric print 

Geometric printed pillows come next. Characterized by lines, grid, and repetition, geometric prints balance out the movement of an organic print and create dimension and interest. When choosing geometric printed pillows, pulling out at least one color from your organic print is a simple rule of thumb.  

Geometric printed pillows 

No. 4: Choose a print with contrasting scale 

Once you have your first few pillow patterns and prints, it’s time to play with scale! Look at the scale of your current pillows and choose something contrasting. Whether the pattern is significantly larger in scale or significantly smaller, choosing something with stark contrast will make the look feel more curated and interesting.  

 Large scale printed pillows  

Small scale printed pillows  

No. 5: Add in solids and incorporate texture 

Solid pillows help balance out a pillow combination and allow the patterns to speak for themselves. We use solids in pillow combinations as an excuse to incorporate texture and elevate the look. Whether it’s a subtle silk fringe or a cozy sweater knit detail, textural solids will add warmth and complete any pillow combination. 

Solid textural pillows 

Keep scrolling to see some of our favorite pillow combination looks in action!