Think of cushions as the finishing touch – the final flourish that transforms a room from simply styled to effortlessly curated. Whether you’re refreshing your living room, elevating your bedroom, or simply giving your home a seasonal switch-up, knowing how to style cushions is the secret to a space that feels both curated and comfortable.
From how to mix cushion colours to choosing the right textures and sizes, here’s our guide to styling cushions like a pro – one perfectly fluffed layer at a time.
START WITH A NEUTRAL BASE
Before diving into colour and pattern, anchor your look with a neutral foundation. Whether you’re styling cushions on a modern sofa, vintage armchair or bed, a base of soft, muted tones sets a calm and cohesive tone.
ADD COLOUR WITH INTENTION
Adding colour to your cushion collection should feel considered, not chaotic. The key to how to mix cushion colours is to find a palette that complements the tones already in your room.
Ideas for colourful cushion styling:
- Draw inspiration from artwork, vases, or even the spines of your books.
- Try earthy hues like terracotta and olive green for warmth, or soft blush and sky blue for a serene touch.
- Keep it seasonal - rich rust tones for autumn, gentle pastels in spring.
A handful of vibrant cushions can transform a room, even when everything else stays neutral.
TOP UP THE TEXTURE
While colour catches the eye, textured cushions hold your attention. Mixing textures adds richness and a sense of luxury, whether you’re styling cushions on a sofa or layering them on the bed.
Try combining:
- Smooth velvet with raw linen for contrast.
- Chunky knits beside crisp cotton.
- Embroidered cushions or fringed trims for tactile intrigue.
Layered textiles bring a space to life. It's not just about how it looks - it's about how it feels.
PLAY WITH SHAPE AND SIZE
When it comes to cushion size guide advice, variety is your friend. A mix of shapes and dimensions adds a designer feel and avoids a flat, too-perfect look.
Cushion size styling tips:
- Anchor with large square cushions (50x50cm).
- Add medium-sized cushions (45x45cm) in complementary tones.
- Finish with a rectangular lumbar cushion or a single, eye-catching round shape.
Odd numbers work best - three or five cushions create a relaxed yet polished effect.
STYLING CUSHIONS ON A SOFA
The sofa is your main stage - so cushion styling should feel deliberate, yet effortless. Focus on layering, proportion and a touch of contrast.
Sofa cushion ideas:
- Start with two large square cushions (50x50cm) on either end.
- Add two medium-sized cushions in a complementary tone or subtle print.
- Finish with one lumbar or statement cushion in the centre.
- Mix textures - think velvet, boucle, or washed linen - for depth.
- Stick to a cohesive colour palette, but add one bold accent for interest.
A well-styled sofa feels both curated and comfortable - inviting you to sit (and stay).
STYLING CUSHIONS ON AN ARMCHAIR
A single cushion can completely elevate an armchair. It’s a small styling moment that adds softness and polish.
Try this:
- Choose a cushion that fits the chair’s scale - medium square or lumbar.
- Opt for texture or pattern to make it pop - boucle, embroidery, or velvet.
- Echo colours used elsewhere (on the sofa or rug) for a pulled-together look.
- For a minimal feel, go tonal with a subtle fabric detail.
The result? A refined, inviting corner that feels considered without being overdone.
STYLING CUSHIONS IN THE BEDROOM
Not just for the sofa – styling cushions on a bed is an easy way to add softness and luxury to your space. Whether you’re going for hotel chic or laidback elegance, it’s all about the layering.
Bedroom cushion ideas:
- Start with neatly arranged sleeping pillows.
- Add two large square cushions for depth.
- Layer two medium decorative cushions, and finish with one statement piece at the front.
It’s a simple update with a big impact - and your morning coffee just got a stylish new backdrop.
Now that you know how to style cushions, you’ll see just how transformative they can be. The right combination of colour, texture and size brings warmth, depth and personality to any room. From living room lounging to bedroom layering, cushion styling tips are the secret to a home that feels effortlessly refined.
Looking for new favourites? Explore our latest cushion collection - because the perfect cushion arrangement is only a layer away.
Shop our Cushion Collection.
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