Neutral Pillows: They Don't Have to Be Boring!

Find out my three tips for adding interest when you decorate with neutral pillows. Neutral throw pillows don’t have to be boring…they are soft, cozy, and so versatile!

I told you the story of why I love neutral decor a few years ago…and I’m happy to say that I am still very much in love! I took our home from bright colors and large patterns, to soft, neutral tones and very subtle patterns. One of the best decorating tricks for adding neutral colors to your decor is to use them as accents. Introduce neutral window panels, a neutral rug, or my favorite way, neutral pillows. Once you invest in a neutral pillow cover collection, you will basically be set for life. If you don’t ever wish to change it, you will be fine, because neutrals go with everything! Neutral pillows can travel from room to room to create a fresh look, and they can be mixed and matched with ease. Read on for my three best tips for adding neutral pillows to your decor.

How to Add Neutral Pillows to your Decor

Mix the Textures

So…what is texture? Texture is the feel or appearance of an object. In regards to fabrics and home decor, texture refers to whether or not a fabric is smooth, nubby, canvas-like, or furry. Other examples are rough and rustic wood, thick wicker, or smooth metals. When decorating with neutral pillows, it adds amazing interest to vary the textures. Mix a smooth linen fabric with rough burlap. Pair a thick chenille with a heavy cotton. Another thing that adds texture is trim. Think of fringe, tassels, or buttons as accessories for your pillows. By mixing up the textures, you can add your own personal style and charm to your space.

Vary the Neutral Tones

The definition of neutral is: without color. Most people think of neutrals as soft and soothing, which they are, but they have other positive traits as well. Neutral tones are classic, and they will never go out of style. Some examples of neutrals are beige, ivory, white, gray, taupe, or black. Each of these neutral colors comes in a variety of tones, or shades. When deciding on your neutral pillow covers, choose different tones, so there is contrast and appeal. Use a light ivory along with a dark beige. Pair white with gray or khaki. Another idea for varying tones is to use a subtle, neutral pattern. A tone-on-tone stripe or plaid really makes the solid neutrals pop.

Use Different Sizes

One of the easiest ways to add charm to a neutral pillow cover collection is to use different sizes. Make sure to include lumbar pillows, square pillows in multiple sizes, and if possible, a round pillow. I know round pillows are hard to find…so if you see one, make sure to grab it! By combining different sizes, you will easily present a layered effect, which is not only pretty, it’s functional. At this point, you are probably asking how can pillows be functional? If you think they are just for show, listen to this! Lumbar pillows are helpful for back support, and square pillows offer a soft place to lay your head. I use a pillow under my feet when they are propped up on a footstool. Pillows soften hard lines of furniture, and they provide comfort. They are the perfect mix of form and function.

Bonus tip for sofas and sectionals:

To add a touch of the unexpected, use an odd number of pillows on your sofa and/or sectional. If you are a pillow minimalist, use a pair of pillows, one on each end, along with a third pillow in a different size and color tone. If you enjoy lots of pillows, include two sets, along with a fifth pillow as an accent. I follow some crazy talented home decor bloggers on Instagram, and what they do with their pillows is truly stunning. Here are some accounts to follow if you are interested:

@onsuttonplace (of course!)
@adventuresindecorating1
@savvysouthernstyle (Kim has retired from blogging, but she’s very active on Instagram, so if you have missed her blog posts, head over there!)
@citrineliving
@designthusiasm

*Affiliate links included. Click HERE for my disclosure statement.

Neutral Throw Pillows for Your Home

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Final Thoughts

Pillows sometimes get a bad rap, but this is a post for everyone, whether you enjoy pillows or not. Even if you think they are ridiculous, the tips included here apply to all soft furnishings, no matter what color they are. If you decorate with reds and greens, it’s still important to vary the tones and textures. So take the ideas and inspiration, and apply them to your own home. Let them help make your home the perfect reflection of you. Because at the end of the day, that’s what is most important.

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14 Comments

Hi! Where can I find the 3 pillows in the images in this post? I love the 3 pillows and have tried to find them everywhere. Thanks in advance.

I have neutral colors too. But I recently read that neutral colors are out and color is in. I intend to keep my red and navy pillows on my white sofa for winter. Color is cheerful, especially during the gray days of winter.

I love color and can’t imagine my life without it. I miss the color from your early blogs. I am excited for you in your new home and anxious to see new material and new pix from it.

Love when you include where you purchased the items you are featuring. Would you please share where the neutral pillows were purchased from that you show in your sofa.

Thank you.

I love reading your blog. I love your decorating tips and recipes. Thanks for sharing your home with us.

Ann Drake says:

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You are very welcome…thank you for taking the time to comment!

Reply

Thank you for this lovely post! My love of neutral pillow information was just validated 😉

Hi Ann, what neutral color(white) is good for walls? The undertones scare me!

Sorry but I love colour- our ceilings -windows -skirtings -door frames are always white- I am married to a painter lol

I love pillows. I purchases the pillow inserts and then that way I can just change them with the season. In order to get neutrals and texture, I sometimes check out sweaters at thrift stores. I enjoy making the envelope pillow cases, so that is why I purchase sweaters and sometimes flannel. I enjoy your newsletters and blog. Always something to learn.

For the past 2 years I have been transitioning my home to neutrals.Pillows and throws are great ways to add neutrals or a pop of color accenting neutrals.Love your neutral living room with the blue accents.

Very helpful ideas. I enjoy using pillows as accents and I like to use throws with them. However, I’m never sure of the placement for throws, folded, tossed, next to pillows, under pillows. Do you have any suggestions?

Great ideas. Decluttering and decorating this new year. Fun ideas to follow. Thanks.

I am in the process of taking my home from very bold color scheme to more neutral, and I love it! Using pillows with different tones, textures and shapes has added another element to the overall beauty. On occassion I will add a seasonal pillow with a pop of color. Thanks for the great article. I am so glad I found your blog.

Neutral Pillows: They Don’t Have to Be Boring!