One Sofa - (3) Different Looks

I found this helpful little spread via Real Simple, which demonstrates how you can update your look in an instant by adding throw pillows to your sofa. I happen to be (a little) obsessed with pillows and am constantly adding, switching out and re-arranging the ones on my giant sectional. It's the easiest way to freshen up your decor when you're craving change! Here are some helpful tips straight from Real Simple's interior design experts...

For a Modern Look: Go for an odd number of pillows, like three or five, rather than traditional pairs. Use larger pillows, around 18" to 24" in size, to really showcase a pattern or solid color. Keep the color palette simple and select large geometric patterns.

For a Traditional Look: Two or four large pillows arranged on either side of the sofa is key for balance and symmetry. The right size depends on how big your sofa is, but try pairing square pillows measuring 20 to 22 inches across with smaller squares or circles. Layering a variety of textures, patterns, and colors keeps things lively. A print and a coordinating solid will work, too.

For an Eclectic Look: Aim for three or five pillows to create a pleasing asymmetry without cluttering the sofa. You want your pillows to look "as if they just happened to be there." Try two pillows in one corner with a third at the opposite end. Aim for sizes of 18" - 24." For pattern, you can have a couple of pillows that match or five pillows in five different fabrics, but make sure there's at least one color in common to give the arrangement some unity.