A Compendium of Cushiony Comforts

Thinking of investing in some new throw pillows to liven up the old homestead? A capital idea! But before you go throwing your hard-earned shillings at every plush square that catches your eye, let’s have a little tête-à-tête about the importance of choosing the right materials and textures. Why, the very feel of a pillow can make or break the entire ambiance of a room!

• First, ask yourself this: what’s the message you’re trying to send with your décor? Are you aiming for a look of refined elegance, the kind of room that wouldn’t be out of place in a Park Avenue penthouse? Then, my friend, you’ll want to drape your furniture with pillows of only the most luxurious materials: velvets so smooth, they make a baby’s cheek look like sandpaper, and silks that shimmer and shine like a debutante’s tiara!
• But perhaps you’re more of a homebody at heart, seeking comfort above all else? Then, by all means, embrace those cozy textures that practically beg you to sink in and stay awhile. Think soft, breathable cotton, nubby linen, or even a touch of fuzzy wool for those chilly winter evenings. And if a bit of faux fur tickles your fancy, well, who are we to judge?
• Now, a word to the wise: even the most aesthetically pleasing pillow is useless if it falls apart after a week! So, if those pillows are destined for a room that sees a lot of action – a bustling family room, perhaps, or a child’s room where pillow fights are practically a daily occurrence – you’ll want to select your materials accordingly. Look for sturdy fabrics that can stand up to a bit of roughhousing: durable canvas, perhaps, or even rugged leather.
• And speaking of roughhousing, let’s not forget about texture! Why settle for a monotonous sea of smoothness when you can create a veritable symphony of textures? Imagine running your hand across a collection of pillows: soft velvet next to nubby linen, a bit of chunky knit alongside a smooth silk. The possibilities are endless, my friend, and each combination tells a different story.