not-square pillows (and how to style them!)
pillow styles and shapes for every space.
Published Sep 9, 2016 5:00 AM
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Looking to give your sofa or bed a little oomph with new pillows? Step outside the box and buy something…well, not square! Whether you fancy a lumbar or a bolster, a neckroll or an organic-shaped throw, we’ve got the tricks to ensure you style and layer your pillows to perfection.
the neckroll
Structured and sophisticated, a neckroll pillow is the perfect way to anchor two sides of a sofa.
Tucked on either end of a structured or tufted sofa, two printed neckrolls add a bit of charm to your living space.
When a neckroll is upholstered in the same fabric as the sofa, you create a chic pattern-on-pattern look that’s both put-together and classic.
the bolster
A bolster, usually pulled tight on each end with drawstrings, is an easy way to create a focal point on your bed.
Small and centered on a neutral bed, this soft cheetah print bolster plays off the pattern on the zebra-striped headboard.
If you’ve got beautifully monogrammed Euro shams, why cover them up? To add another layer of pillows without hiding your bespoke bedding, add a large printed bolster that spans the entire bed.
For a neat but playful look, place a velvet bolster in front of standard shams on a twin bed.
the lumbar
This rectangular-shaped pillow, most commonly available in 14″x26″ or 16″x20″, is possibly the most versatile style in your not-square repertoire.
Style a small agate-print lumbar on an animal print statement chair for eye-catching detail tucked in a corner.
A printed yet neutral lumbar can be styled on a sofa or bed.
Toss a neutral-print lumbar in front of two monogrammed Euro shams for a touch of preppy pattern.
Color blocked in pink and white, this lumbar from Frog Hill Designs makes a graphic statement.
Styled with blue and white chevron and palm print, the pop of pink creates a fun focal point.
A navy silk lumbar mixes well with others. The subtle polka dot design adds a touch of pattern to a collection of throw pillows.
Mix a darker lumbar with several square (and not square!) pillows on your sofa. By mixing in rectangular shapes, it keeps your sofa grounded.
A graphic blue and white Otomi lumbar is an ideal pillow to center on a bed or sofa. This one comes in five colorways!
A lumbar in an Ikat or
Otomi printis the perfect statement pillow to center on a sofa. With bold patterns like this one, it’s best to not clutter your sofa with too many throws. Two square pillows create balance on either side of the lumbar.
the standard sham
A crisp white standard sham is the key to keeping your bedding simple but fresh.
Stack white standard shams for an effortlessly chic and non-fussy look.
Bold color and pattern isn’t reserved for throw pillows alone! Try a bright and printed standard sham to give your bed a little pop.
On sheets and matching standard shams, this small-scaled pattern creates fun and subtle contrast with the other patterns at play in this cozy bedroom.
A standard sham with a thick black border is just what your master bedroom’s been looking for.
Prop the pair at the head of the bed and toss a faux fur blanket at the foot for a glamorous and easy update.
the boudoir
They may be tiny, but a stylish, sweet boudoir pillow can add the finishing touch to your bedding.
A sweet embroidered boudoir brightens up this muted blue and pink bedding.
There’s just something about this mini pillow in chic leopard print that has us smiling.
Toss one on all white monogrammed bedding for a touch of animal print.
the circular throw
A circular cushion adds an unexpected element to any cozy corner.
Place a circular pillow in one of two matching chairs for subtle and stylish asymmetry.
Prop a spotted cushion on a neutral covered twin bed for a crisp, contemporary feel.