The Art of Soft Furnishings

A Comprehensive Guide to Styling Your Home with Pillows, Blankets & Covers

By Sarah Mitchell | Senior Home Styling Expert, LIVORA

Transform any space from ordinary to extraordinary with the power of textiles

"A house becomes a home not through its walls, but through the layers of comfort we wrap around ourselves within them." — Sarah Mitchell

Welcome from the Author

Hello, and thank you for choosing this LIVORA guide!

I'm Sarah Mitchell, and I've spent the past fifteen years helping homeowners discover the transformative power of textiles. As LIVORA's Senior Home Styling Expert, I've had the privilege of working with countless clients—from first-time apartment renters to seasoned interior design enthusiasts—all seeking that elusive quality that makes a space feel truly finished.

What I've learned is this: the secret rarely lies in expensive furniture or dramatic renovations. More often, it's found in the thoughtful selection and arrangement of pillows, blankets, and covers—those soft, touchable elements that invite us to sit down, stay awhile, and feel at home.

This guide distills everything I know about soft furnishings into practical, actionable advice you can implement today. Whether you're starting from scratch or simply looking to refresh what you have, I'm confident you'll find inspiration in these pages.

I look forward to sharing more guides with you in the future. Until then, happy styling!

Warmly,

Sarah Mitchell Senior Home Styling Expert, LIVORA

Introduction

Soft furnishings are the unsung heroes of interior design. While furniture provides the foundation and paint sets the tone, it's the pillows, blankets, and covers that breathe life into a room. These versatile elements offer an accessible, budget-friendly way to refresh your space seasonally, express your personality, and create an atmosphere that feels both polished and inviting.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, arranging, and caring for these essential home accessories—whether you're styling a cozy living room, a serene bedroom, or any space in between.

Part One: Understanding the Fundamentals

The Role of Soft Furnishings in Interior Design

Soft furnishings serve multiple purposes beyond mere decoration:

Visual Impact — They introduce color, pattern, and texture, creating visual interest and breaking up large expanses of solid furniture.

Comfort Enhancement — Quality textiles transform a space from simply looking good to actually feeling good, inviting people to sit, relax, and stay awhile.

Acoustic Benefits — Fabrics absorb sound, reducing echo and creating a warmer, more intimate atmosphere.

Seasonal Adaptability — Swapping out textiles is the easiest way to transition your home from season to season without major renovations.

Personal Expression — Your choice of patterns, colors, and textures tells a story about who you are and how you live.

Key Terminology

Before diving deeper, let's establish a common vocabulary:

• Throw Pillow / Accent Pillow — Decorative pillows used primarily for aesthetic purposes
• Lumbar Pillow — Rectangular pillows designed to support the lower back
• Euro Sham — Large square pillow covers, typically 26" x 26"
• Throw Blanket — Decorative blankets sized for draping over furniture
• Duvet Cover — A protective, removable cover for a duvet insert
• Coverlet — A lightweight, decorative bed covering
• Slipcover — A removable fabric cover for furniture pieces

Part Two: The Art of Pillow Styling

Choosing the Right Pillows

Size Matters

Understanding standard pillow sizes helps you create balanced arrangements:

Fill Quality

The insert is just as important as the cover:

Down Feather — Offers a luxurious, soft feel with excellent "chop" (the ability to karate-chop the top for that designer look). Premium option but requires fluffing.

Down Alternative — Hypoallergenic synthetic fill that mimics down. More affordable and easier to maintain.

Polyester Fiberfill — Budget-friendly but tends to flatten over time. Best for infrequently used decorative pieces.

Foam — Maintains shape well but lacks the organic softness of feather options. Good for lumbar support pillows.

Pro Tip: Always choose an insert that's 1-2 inches larger than your cover for a plump, professional appearance.

The Pillow Arrangement Formula

For Sofas and Sectionals

The Classic Symmetrical Arrangement (Traditional/Formal)

Start with your largest pillows at the outside corners, then layer inward with progressively smaller sizes. Mirror each side for a balanced, formal look.

Example for a standard 3-seat sofa:

• 2 large squares (22") at each end
• 2 medium squares (18-20") in front of those
• 1 lumbar pillow centered, or 2 smaller squares (16") flanking center

The Asymmetrical Arrangement (Modern/Casual)

Create visual interest through intentional imbalance. Use odd numbers and vary heights and sizes across the sofa without exact mirroring.

Example:

• Left side: 1 large square + 1 medium square
• Right side: 1 medium square + 1 lumbar
• This creates movement and a more relaxed, collected-over-time aesthetic

The Minimalist Approach (Contemporary)

Less is more. Choose 2-4 pillows maximum in a cohesive color palette with subtle texture variation.

For Beds

The Layered Hotel Look

Working from back to front:

1. Euro shams against the headboard (2 for queen, 3 for king)
2. Sleeping pillows in shams standing in front
3. Standard decorative squares (2-3)
4. One lumbar or bolster at the very front

The Relaxed Organic Look

Fewer pillows, more casually arranged:

1. Sleeping pillows stacked or leaning
2. 2-3 throw pillows in varying sizes
3. Pillows slightly overlapping rather than perfectly aligned

The Modern Minimal Look

Just the essentials:

1. Sleeping pillows (covered or with simple shams)
2. 1-2 accent pillows for color
3. Clean lines, plenty of visible bedding

Color and Pattern Mixing

The key to mixing patterns successfully lies in understanding scale and maintaining a cohesive thread:

The 60-30-10 Rule

• 60% dominant color/pattern (typically your largest pieces or solid foundations)
• 30% secondary color/pattern (medium-sized pillows, complementary tones)
• 10% accent color/pattern (smallest pieces, boldest statements)

Pattern Mixing Guidelines

1. Vary the scale — Combine large-scale patterns with medium and small-scale prints
2. Maintain a common color — All patterns should share at least one connecting hue
3. Mix pattern types — Pair geometric with organic, stripes with florals
4. Include solids — Solid pillows give the eye a place to rest
5. Limit to three patterns maximum — More than this risks visual chaos

Texture as Pattern

Don't overlook texture as a design element. Combine:

• Smooth velvet with nubby bouclé
• Sleek linen with chunky knit
• Embroidered details with plain weaves

Part Three: Blankets and Throws

Types of Throw Blankets

Knit Throws — Chunky, cozy, perfect for casual spaces. Available in cable knit, waffle weave, and various textures.

Woven Throws — More structured, often featuring patterns like herringbone or plaid. Suitable for both casual and formal settings.

Fleece and Sherpa — Maximum warmth and softness. Best for family rooms and bedrooms rather than formal spaces.

Faux Fur — Adds instant luxury and texture. Use sparingly as an accent.

Lightweight Cotton or Linen — Ideal for warmer months or purely decorative purposes.

Blanket Sizing Guide

Styling Techniques for Throws

The Casual Drape

Fold the blanket lengthwise into thirds, then drape it over one arm of the sofa or across a corner of the sectional. Allow it to puddle naturally on the floor or cushion for an effortless look.

The Neat Fold

For a more tailored appearance, fold the throw into a rectangle and place it:

• Over the back of a sofa (centered or off to one side)
• Across the foot of a bed (full width or folded narrower)
• On the seat of an accent chair

The Artful Toss

Gather the blanket loosely in your hands, then "toss" it onto the furniture, adjusting just enough to look intentional but not fussy. This works best with lightweight, flowing fabrics.

The Ladder Display

A decorative ladder leaning against a wall makes an excellent blanket storage solution that doubles as decor. Drape 2-4 throws over the rungs at varying heights.

The Basket Collection

Roll or loosely fold throws and arrange them in a large basket near the sofa. Functional, accessible, and visually appealing.

Seasonal Blanket Rotation

Spring/Summer

• Lightweight cotton, linen, or bamboo
• Light colors: whites, creams, soft pastels, natural tones
• Breathable weaves

Fall/Winter

• Chunky knits, wool blends, sherpa, faux fur
• Rich colors: burgundy, forest green, navy, mustard, rust
• Heavier weights for actual warmth

Part Four: Covers and Slipcovers

Duvet Covers

Selecting the Right Duvet Cover

Material Considerations

• Cotton — Breathable, durable, easy to wash. Look for long-staple varieties (Egyptian, Pima) for softness.
• Linen — Naturally temperature-regulating, develops beautiful patina over time. Wrinkles are part of its charm.
• Sateen — Silky smooth with a subtle sheen. Drapes beautifully but can be warmer.
• Percale — Crisp, cool, matte finish. Ideal for hot sleepers.
• Microfiber — Budget-friendly and wrinkle-resistant but less breathable.

Thread Count Truth

Thread count isn't everything. Quality of fiber matters more than sheer number. A 400-thread-count long-staple cotton will outperform a 1000-thread-count short-staple cotton. Generally, 300-600 thread count indicates quality without excessive marketing inflation.

Styling Your Bed with Duvet Covers

The Classic Pulled-Up Look

Pull the duvet up to cover all pillows, then fold back the top third to reveal the pillows. Clean, simple, hotel-inspired.

The Layered Look

Fold the duvet down to the lower third of the bed, revealing a flat sheet, blanket layer, and arranged pillows. More complex but visually rich.

The Casual Unmade Look

Leave the duvet pulled up but not perfectly smooth. Add a few natural wrinkles and folds. Works beautifully with linen.

Furniture Slipcovers

Benefits of Slipcovers

• Protection — Shield furniture from pets, children, spills, and sun damage
• Transformation — Completely change a piece's look without buying new furniture
• Seasonal Updates — Swap covers to refresh your space
• Easy Cleaning — Most are machine washable

Types of Slipcovers

Custom-Fit Slipcovers

Made to measure for your specific furniture piece. Offers the most tailored, professional appearance. Higher cost but superior results.

Semi-Custom Slipcovers

Designed to fit standard furniture sizes with some adjustability (ties, elastic, tuck-ins). Good balance of fit and affordability.

Universal/Stretch Slipcovers

One-size-fits-most approach using stretchy fabric. Most affordable but can look loose or ill-fitting on some pieces.

Achieving a Professional Slipcover Look

1. Tuck deeply — Push excess fabric firmly into crevices between cushions and frame
2. Smooth frequently — Throughout the day, smooth wrinkles and readjust
3. Use foam tubes — Insert foam "noodles" into crevices to hold tucks in place
4. Steam, don't iron — Remove wrinkles without damaging fabric
5. Consider furniture grips — Non-slip pads between slipcover and furniture prevent shifting

Cushion Covers

Replacing cushion covers (on dining chairs, outdoor furniture, or decorative cushions) offers similar benefits to full slipcovers on a smaller scale.

Indoor Dining Chairs

Coordinate with table linens and room decor. Consider performance fabrics if you have young children.

Outdoor Furniture

Choose UV-resistant, quick-drying fabrics specifically designed for outdoor use. Indoor fabrics will fade and deteriorate rapidly.

Floor Cushions

Large floor cushions with removable covers add flexible seating. Choose durable, washable covers for high-use areas.

Part Five: Creating Cohesion Throughout Your Home

Developing a Whole-Home Textile Strategy

While each room should have its own character, a sense of flow throughout your home creates sophistication. Consider these approaches:

The Color Thread

Choose 2-3 colors that appear in varying proportions throughout your home. Perhaps navy and cream dominate the living room, cream and sage lead in the bedroom, and navy and sage accent the guest room—all connected.

The Texture Family

Stick to a consistent texture vocabulary. If your home features natural linen and cotton in the living room, don't suddenly introduce shiny satin in the bedroom.

The Pattern Personality

If you love bold geometric patterns, let them appear (in different scales) across multiple rooms. A home mixing geometrics, florals, and abstract patterns in every room feels chaotic.

Room-by-Room Guidance

Living Room

This high-traffic, high-visibility space typically needs the most polish. Invest in quality pillow inserts and covers. Choose throws that photograph well but also invite actual use. Balance decorative appeal with durability.

Bedroom

Prioritize comfort alongside aesthetics. This is where you can indulge in the softest fabrics and most personal color choices. Consider how textiles look both made-up and in actual use.

Guest Room

Aim for universal appeal and comfort. Provide extra blankets (guests run at different temperatures). Choose bedding that feels welcoming without being overly personal to your taste.

Home Office

A single throw over an office chair adds warmth. One or two pillows can make a desk chair more comfortable for long hours. Keep the look professional if you video conference frequently.

Kids' Rooms

Prioritize washability. Removable, machine-washable covers are essential. Consider patterns that hide stains (small prints, medium-toned colors). Let personality shine through—this is their space.

Part Six: Practical Considerations

Caring for Your Textiles

Pillow Covers

• Wash according to fabric instructions (typically gentle cycle, cold water)
• Air dry or tumble dry low to prevent shrinkage
• Iron or steam while slightly damp for best results
• Store with tissue paper to prevent creasing

Pillow Inserts

• Down and down-alternative can usually be machine washed on gentle
• Tumble dry with clean tennis balls to restore loft
• Air out monthly to prevent musty odors
• Replace every 2-3 years or when permanently flattened

Throw Blankets

• Check care labels—some require dry cleaning
• Shake out regularly between washes
• Store in breathable bags (not plastic) during off-seasons
• Fold along original creases to maintain shape

Duvet Covers

• Wash every 1-2 weeks during use
• Turn inside out and button/zip closed before washing
• Dry completely to prevent mildew
• Fold and store in linen closet; avoid plastic containers

Slipcovers

• Wash before storing (stains set over time)
• Measure before and after first wash (some shrinkage is normal)
• Put back on furniture while slightly damp for best fit
• Touch up with steamer as needed

Budget-Smart Strategies

Where to Invest

• Duvet covers and sheets (you spend 8 hours a day on these)
• Living room pillows visible from your front door
• Quality down or down-alternative inserts
• One statement throw per main room

Where to Save

• Guest room bedding
• Trendy, seasonal patterns you'll replace anyway
• Kids' room textiles (they'll outgrow the style)
• Decorative pillows in low-traffic areas

Refresh Without Replacing

• Flip or rotate pillow covers seasonally
• Re-fluff inserts regularly
• Steam instead of replacing wrinkled items
• Deep clean before deciding something is worn out

Storage Solutions

Off-Season Storage

• Clean everything before storing
• Use cotton or linen storage bags (breathable)
• Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to prevent mustiness
• Store in climate-controlled areas (avoid attics and basements)

In-Season Organization

• Dedicated basket or bin for throw blankets
• Pillow storage ottoman (dual function!)
• Shelf in linen closet for rotation pieces
• Under-bed containers for extra bedding sets

Part Seven: Troubleshooting Common Challenges

"My pillows always look flat"

Solutions:

• Upgrade to down or down-alternative inserts
• Size up your inserts (2" larger than covers)
• Fluff and karate-chop daily
• Replace old, compressed inserts

"I can't get pattern mixing right"

Solutions:

• Start with all solids plus one patterned piece
• Use a patterned pillow as your starting point; pull solid colors from it
• Stick to two patterns maximum until you're confident
• When in doubt, add texture instead of pattern

"My throw blankets look messy"

Solutions:

• Choose the right weight for your styling technique
• Practice your "toss" to find what looks intentional
• Use blankets with enough drape (avoid stiff fabrics)
• Accept that some casual messiness is part of the aesthetic

"Slipcovers won't stay in place"

Solutions:

• Use foam tubes or pool noodles in crevices
• Apply non-slip rug pads between furniture and cover
• Tuck more fabric than seems necessary
• Consider custom-fit covers for problem pieces

"My bedroom looks too 'done'"

Solutions:

• Reduce pillow count
• Leave the bed slightly imperfect
• Mix pillow sizes less uniformly
• Add one or two linen pieces for natural texture

"Everything looks matchy-matchy and boring"

Solutions:

• Introduce one contrasting texture
• Add a pillow in an unexpected color
• Mix warm and cool tones
• Include something handmade or vintage

Conclusion: Your Personal Textile Journey

The beauty of styling with pillows, blankets, and covers lies in their accessibility and impermanence. Unlike structural changes or large furniture purchases, textiles allow you to experiment, make mistakes, and evolve your style over time without significant commitment.

Start where you are. If you're new to textile styling, begin with one room—perhaps adding two well-chosen pillows to a sofa that currently has none. Notice how it changes the space. Build from there.

Remember that rules are guidelines, not mandates. The "right" number of pillows is the number that makes you happy when you walk into the room. The "correct" blanket placement is the one that invites you to curl up and stay awhile.

Your home should reflect your life—how you actually live, not how a magazine suggests you should live. Use these principles as a foundation, then trust your instincts. The goal isn't perfection; it's creating a space that feels unmistakably, comfortably, beautifully yours.

This guide is part of the LIVORA Home Styling Series by Sarah Mitchell.

Look for more guides coming soon:

• The Complete Guide to Layering Rugs
• Window Treatments: From Basics to Beautiful
• Color Theory for the Everyday Home
• Seasonal Refresh: A Room-by-Room Transition Guide

LIVORA — Designing spaces. Creating homes.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Pillow Formula by Furniture Size

Essential Starter Collection

For a complete textile refresh of a typical living room and bedroom:

Living Room

• 4-5 throw pillow covers in coordinating patterns/solids
• 4-5 quality pillow inserts (sized up 2")
• 2 throw blankets (1 lightweight, 1 cozy)

Bedroom

• 1 quality duvet cover set
• 2-3 Euro shams
• 2-4 decorative pillow covers
• 2-4 pillow inserts
• 1 throw blanket for foot of bed

Seasonal Color Palette Suggestions

Spring: Soft pink, sage green, butter yellow, crisp white

Summer: Ocean blue, sandy beige, coral, natural linen

Fall: Terracotta, olive green, mustard, warm cream

Winter: Deep navy, forest green, burgundy, ivory, metallics

About LIVORA

LIVORA is dedicated to helping you create spaces that reflect your unique style and support your everyday life. Through expert guidance, curated collections, and practical inspiration, we believe that beautiful living should be accessible to everyone.

Visit us at www.livora.com to explore our full range of home styling resources.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell is LIVORA's Senior Home Styling Expert with over fifteen years of experience in interior design and home staging. She has been featured in leading home and lifestyle publications and is known for her approachable, practical advice that helps real people create beautiful spaces on real budgets. Sarah believes that every home has potential—it just needs the right touches to shine.

Connect with Sarah:

• Email: sarah.mitchell@livora.com
• Instagram: @sarahmitchell_livora

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Happy styling!