Throw pillows are an easy and effective way to bring a coastal vibe to your living room or bedroom. With the right combination of colors, textures, patterns, and layering techniques, you can create a serene, beach-inspired aesthetic. Here are 10 creative ways to style throw pillows for a coastal look that’s both cozy and chic.
1. Stick to a Coastal Color Palette
The foundation of coastal pillow styling is the color palette. Choose hues that evoke the beach and sea.
Color Ideas
- Blues: Sky blue, navy, aqua, or teal.
- Whites and Creams: Clean, crisp tones to balance the blues.
- Sandy Neutrals: Beige, taupe, and soft gray for warmth.
- Soft Greens: Seafoam or sage for a touch of nature.
Pro Tip Use white or cream as your base color and layer in blue and neutral tones for contrast.
2. Mix Patterns and Solids
Combining solid-colored pillows with patterned ones adds depth and interest to your space.
Pattern Ideas
- Stripes: Classic coastal designs reminiscent of nautical themes.
- Botanical Prints: Palm leaves, seagrass, or coral-inspired patterns.
- Geometric: Subtle, modern shapes in soft coastal tones.
- Oceanic Motifs: Shells, starfish, or wave designs.
Pro Tip Stick to a cohesive color scheme when mixing patterns to avoid a cluttered look.
3. Layer Different Textures
Textures add dimension and reinforce the natural, breezy feel of a coastal aesthetic.
Texture Ideas
- Linen: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for a beachy vibe.
- Cotton: Soft and versatile for everyday use.
- Woven Fabrics: Jute, burlap, or macramé for a rustic coastal touch.
- Knits: Chunky or cable-knit pillows for added coziness.
Pro Tip Mix smooth fabrics like cotton with rougher textures like burlap for balance.
4. Play with Sizes and Shapes
Varying the sizes and shapes of your throw pillows creates a dynamic and layered look.
Suggestions
- Use large square pillows (20″x20″) as a base.
- Add smaller square pillows (18″x18″) for layering.
- Include lumbar pillows or bolsters for additional variety.
Pro Tip Use a long lumbar pillow in the center of a sofa or bed for a polished finish.
5. Use Fringe, Tassels, and Pom-Poms
Details like fringe and tassels bring a casual, playful element to coastal decor.
Ideas
- Fringe-edged pillows add a boho-coastal vibe.
- Tassels on pillow corners mimic the relaxed feel of a beachside retreat.
- Pom-poms offer a fun, whimsical touch.
Pro Tip Choose neutral or muted colors for these details to maintain a sophisticated coastal look.
6. Incorporate Nautical Elements
Subtle nautical themes can tie your pillow arrangement to the coastal aesthetic.
Nautical Details
- Rope accents or patterns.
- Pillows with embroidered anchors or compasses.
- Striped designs reminiscent of sailboats or cabanas.
Pro Tip Limit overtly nautical pieces to one or two pillows to avoid an overly themed look.
7. Use Symmetry for a Polished Look
Symmetrical arrangements create a clean, balanced appearance, ideal for formal spaces.
How to Style
- Place matching pairs of pillows on either side of a sofa or bed.
- Use identical patterns or colors for a cohesive effect.
- Anchor the arrangement with a larger or contrasting pillow in the center.
Pro Tip Symmetry works well in living rooms with structured furniture like sectionals or tailored sofas.
8. Create a Relaxed, Asymmetrical Arrangement
For a more casual, lived-in vibe, go asymmetrical with your pillow arrangement.
How to Style
- Use an odd number of pillows for a laid-back look.
- Mix and match sizes and patterns to create a curated feel.
- Arrange pillows loosely rather than perfectly aligned.
Pro Tip Asymmetry works well in informal or boho-coastal settings.
9. Highlight Natural Materials
Natural materials like rattan and jute enhance the coastal aesthetic when incorporated into your throw pillows.
Ideas
- Use pillow covers made of woven jute or seagrass.
- Pair natural materials with soft cotton or linen for contrast.
- Add wooden buttons or ties as decorative details.
Pro Tip Layer natural material pillows with softer, plush options to keep things comfortable.
10. Rotate Pillows Seasonally
Switching out throw pillows seasonally keeps your space fresh and reflective of the changing coastal scenery.
Seasonal Swaps
- Spring/Summer: Use light blues, whites, and botanical prints for a breezy look.
- Fall/Winter: Opt for deeper navy tones, chunky textures, and knits for warmth.
Pro Tip Store out-of-season pillow covers in baskets or drawers for easy access.
FAQs
1. What is the best fabric for coastal throw pillows?
Linen, cotton, and woven materials like jute or seagrass are ideal for a coastal look due to their natural and breathable qualities.
2. How many throw pillows should I use on a sofa?
Use 3-5 pillows on a standard sofa and 5-7 for larger sectionals, balancing comfort and aesthetics.
3. Can I mix different shades of blue?
Absolutely! Layering light, medium, and dark blues creates depth and visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look.
4. What patterns work best for coastal pillows?
Stripes, botanical prints, geometric designs, and oceanic motifs are timeless coastal patterns.
5. How do I arrange throw pillows for a cohesive look?
Start with larger pillows at the back, layer smaller ones in the front, and balance patterns with solids for harmony.
6. Can I use bold colors in a coastal pillow arrangement?
Yes! Incorporate accents of coral, turquoise, or sunny yellow sparingly to add vibrancy while keeping the coastal feel.
7. What’s the easiest way to refresh my coastal pillow arrangement?
Swap pillow covers seasonally or rotate patterns and colors to keep your space updated.
8. Are tassels and fringe necessary for a coastal look?
Not necessary, but they can add a playful and relaxed element that complements a beach-inspired space.
9. How do I store extra throw pillows?
Use woven baskets, storage ottomans, or decorative bins to keep extra pillows organized and within reach.
10. Where can I buy coastal-inspired throw pillows?
Check home decor stores like Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, or online retailers like Etsy for unique and beachy pillow options.