9 design formulas for piling on the pillows with panache

Don't fret, mastering a throw pillow mix is not rocket science. While I've broken some of these masterful mixes down into some simplified design formulas, don't take them too seriously. There are no hard and fast rules; it's really about switching things up until you find the right combination and arrangement.

Here are a range of throw pillow combinations that run from "I can do that!" to "don't try this at home without a decorator." Remember that sometimes the combinations that cannot be explained or broken down in any way are the best ones around.

1. 1 Pattern + 1 Solid. This is a simple mix that can have a big impact. When using a strong pairing of opposite colors such as orange and blue, all you need for a          backdrop is cream or white. 

Here's a way to try 1 Pattern + 1 Solid in a more minimal room. The patterns are subtle, except for the strong geometric diamond pattern on the pillows. A few solid pillows pick up on the same gray tone from the diamonds to add balance. 

2. 1 Bold Pattern + 1 Small Pattern. This is the next step beyond tip No. 1; the pattern on the cream-colored pillows here is so subtle that it practically reads as a solid.  

3. Base of Primary Colors. Keeping a simple palette allows you to have fun playing with the shape of the pillows (squares, rectangles, bolsters, etc). Primary colors plus a few punches of orange dominate this throw mix. The designer also has played with different sizes and shapes in the ottoman mix

4. All Florals, All the Time. Anyone who has visited a cottage in England knows that there are no two floral prints that clash with one another.  

Tip: When a pair of floral prints appear to be clashing, simply add a third. If those look like they are clashing, add a fourth, and so on, until it all just works. 

This mix has a wide range of floral styles, color palettes and scales, and the result is sophisticated and inviting. Read on here to view full article.