Decorating with pillows is one of the simplest yet most transformative ways to enhance the aesthetics of a living space. West Elm, a front-runner in home decor, offers a diverse selection of pillow covers that can instantly elevate any room’s design. Mastering the art of mixing and matching these covers can lead to an intriguing aesthetic. Let’s delve into a variety of style tips and tricks that will help you leverage West Elm’s pillow cover options for maximum decorative impact.
Fundamentals of Fabric and Texture
Choosing the Right Materials
Fabrics can dictate the mood of a room – velvets and silks imply luxury, while cotton and linen evoke a casual, laid-back feel. West Elm offers pillow covers in a range of fabrics to cater to different tastes and design objectives. When selecting pillow covers, consider the room’s existing textures and choose fabrics that complement or contrast them effectively.
Playing with Textures
Texture variation is critical for a dynamic mix-and-match pillow arrangement. With options like smooth leather, plush faux fur, and chunky knits, West Elm’s range allows you to create depth and interest. Try pairing a nubby, woven pillow cover with a sleek, embroidered option to strike a balance that engages the senses.
Color Coordination Techniques
Building on a Color Theme
Color is a powerful element in styling with pillow covers. Select a color palette that matches the mood you want your space to reflect. Whether you opt for a calm monochrome scheme or a bold, multi-colored collection, ensure your choices harmonize with the room’s overall color theme. West Elm pillow covers come in various hues and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect match for your palette.
Incorporating Patterns and Prints
Don’t shy away from patterns and prints; they can add dimension and character to your space. If your furniture is solid-colored, patterned pillow covers can serve as striking accents. Alternatively, for patterned upholstery, choose solid pillow covers or those with a subtle print to avoid visual overload. West Elm’s graphic prints and delicate motifs offer a chance to introduce visual rhythm and pops of color.
Size and Shape Considerations
Mixing Sizes for Visual Interest
Size matters when it comes to pillows. A mix of large, medium, and small pillows can provide a layered look that feels luxuriously abundant. Consider starting with larger pillows at the back and layering forward with progressively smaller ones. West Elm’s collection includes pillow covers in standard, euro, lumbar, and other sizes, so you can easily achieve a varied yet cohesive pillow-scape.
Selecting Shapes beyond the Square
Move beyond square pillows and introduce a variety of shapes. Rectangular lumbar pillows support the back comfortably and add a contrasting shape to the mix. West Elm also offers unique shapes like bolsters and round pillows that can serve as focal points within your arrangement.
Balancing Quantity and Quality
Curating the Right Pillow Count
When mixing and matching, the quantity of pillows is just as crucial as style. Too few may look skimpy, while too many can overwhelm a space. Aim for a balanced look—enough pillows for visual impact and comfort but not so many that they take up all the seating space. West Elm’s curated collections can inspire the right combination of quality and quantity for any room.
Choosing Pillows with Purpose
Every pillow should serve a purpose, whether it’s adding a splash of color, providing extra support, or introducing a new texture. Invest in high-quality covers that not only look beautiful but also feel comfortable and are durable. West Elm’s pillow covers are designed to deliver on both aesthetics and function.
Style Refresh Strategies
Rotating Covers Seasonally
One significant advantage of using pillow covers is the ease with which you can change them to suit the season or your mood. Rotate your West Elm pillow covers to transition from cozy winter textiles to lighter, brighter spring and summer fabrics. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your decor fresh and engaging throughout the year.
Keeping Timeless Classics and Trendy Twists
Balance your pillow cover collection with both timeless neutrals and trendy accent pieces. Classic, high-quality neutrals form the backbone of your arrangement, while accent pillows with current design trends from West Elm inject excitement and freshness. Mix favorite staples with a few of the latest designs to keep your space current but enduring.
Creating a Cohesive Atmosphere
Crafting a Story with Your Pillows
Each pillow cover you select can contribute to the overall narrative of your space. Think of your living area as a canvas and your West Elm pillow covers as elements of a story you are weaving. Consistency in theme—be it coastal serenity, urban chic, or bohemian rhapsody—can be achieved by choosing covers that are thematically aligned. Aim for a collection that reflects your personal style and complements the existing decor to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
Anchoring with Neutral Tones
While mixing patterns and colors can be exciting, grounding your design with neutral tones is a key to achieving balance. Use neutral-toned pillow covers from West Elm as the foundation for your mix-match magic. These can act as a calming counterpoint to more vivid or textured pieces, ensuring your space retains a sense of unity and doesn’t become visually overwhelming. A subtle backdrop of greys, beiges, or soft whites can provide a soothing continuity amidst more vibrant pillow accents.
Emphasizing Comfort and Functionality
Selecting for Comfort and Longevity
In the pursuit of style, don’t overlook the primary function of pillows: comfort. Opt for West Elm pillow covers that feel as good as they look. High-quality, soft, and inviting textures encourage relaxation and lounge-worthy comfort. Additionally, consider the durability and upkeep of the covers. Opt for materials that withstand frequent use and are easy to clean, ensuring your curated collection remains both stylish and practical over time.
Balancing Aesthetics with Ergonomics
When selecting pillows, ergonomics plays as important a role as aesthetics. Consider the seating area and the role each pillow will play. A variety of firmness levels among your West Elm pillow covers can support different postures and activities well, from sitting up to read to reclining during a movie night. Choose firmer lumbar pillows for support and softer, squishy pillows for nestling, ensuring your living space isn’t just beautiful but also truly livable.
In conclusion, the art of mixing and matching West Elm pillow covers can turn an ordinary room into an inviting, stylish haven. By understanding the play of fabric and texture, mastering color coordination, considering size and shape diversity, balancing the number of pillows, and employing strategic style refresh tactics, you can creatively and confidently style any space. Pillow covers are an accessible and effective way to update your home decor. With these guidelines, your use of West Elm’s diverse offerings can thoroughly transform your interior design game.