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Q: I need help with with my couch. It’s quite different, and I’m having a really tough time finding throw pillows that would work with it’s untraditional look.  Can you help?

A: I see your point—this is definitely an “untraditional” piece!  That said, here are some suggestions for pillows that could play on its unique character:

Colorful Contrast

In the same way that black pants look great with just about any top, a black couch makes a great base for a wide range of hues. Play against the neutral tones by adding a splash of color. Some possible combos include red and turquoise (be sure to include a pillow like this one to pull it all together) or yellow and jade. Looking to splurge? This houndstooth pillow from ABC Carpet & Home would make for an awesome focal point for a blue and purple theme!

 

A Little Bit Rock nʼ Roll

Like bacon and eggs or Sonny and Cher, black leather and rock nʼ roll just belong together. Choose an assortment of cool, rocker-inspired pillows (like this guitar pillow from Little Miss Matched, or a music note pillow like this one from Zazzle). You can even throw in a pillow that pays homage to your favorite musician or band. Round out the mix with a few solid, velvet-covered pillows (red, orange, or green would all be good choices) and get ready to rock!

 

Biker Chic

Instead of fighting the natural quirkiness of your couch, why not embrace it? Black leather and studs scream “biker,” so stick with the motorcycle motif by adding suede, leather, and metallic pillows. Pillow Decorʼs silver throw pillow, Luxe Homeʼs bamboo black leather pillow, or these handmade faux leather pillows would all be great places to start. (Caution: Only recommended for adventurous decorators!)

 

Soften Things Up

Not thrilled with the hard-edged leather look? Deemphasize it by choosing accents in pale grey, dusty blue, and lilac. Bed Bath & Beyond stocks a nice range of pastel-toned pillows (try the DKNY Willow Powder Toss Pillow, as does Crate & Barrel (their lilac Wisteria Sham is especially nice!) Add a feminine touch with lace, floral, or ruffled pillows, like Pier Oneʼs popular series of flounce pillows. Finally, drape the back of the couch with a soft chenille throw (this one from Pottery Barn looks super comfy) to further downplay the leather and studs.

Neutral Territory

Create a cool urban look by limiting yourself to throw pillows in black, white, and grey. Include a mix of stripes and geometric patterns, and be sure to keep the focus on hard edges and lines. (For neutral geometric pillows, CB2 is a great place to start.) Mix in a few black or grey solids, and donʼt forget a nod to your favorite city—a skyline pillow (like this one from Urban Outfitters) makes a fantastic focal point.

 

 

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