What should I pay attention to when purchasing decorative cushions?

Home / Interior / Home textiles / Decorative cushions and cushion covers

Are you looking for new decorative pillows to brighten up your interior, but don’t know what to look for? Whether you’re going for a bohemian, modern or classic design, there are a few key factors that will determine which decorative pillows will best suit your space. In this blog, we’ll share some helpful tips and considerations for buying decorative pillows, so you can make an informed choice that suits your style and comfort needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Choice When Buying Decorative Cushions

  • Decorative cushions are an essential part of interior design. They not only add comfort to your living space, but also style, color , and texture. They give a room a boost and add a personal touch. They create atmosphere in your living room, but also on the bed in the bedroom and in every other room in the house. But how do you buy the perfect decorative cushions for your interior? Which colors can you combine with each other? When buying decorative cushions, there are many factors to consider. From choosing the right fabric and color to determining the ideal size and filling — each choice can have a huge impact on the overall look and comfort of your interior. In this guide, we will discuss what you should consider when choosing decorative cushions , so that you can buy the perfect cushions for your space.
Discover all decorative cushions and decorative cushion covers
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens

1 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to style and design

  • The first thing to consider when buying decorative pillows is the style and design. Decorative pillows come in different styles, from modern and minimalist to classic and bohemian. The style of your decorative pillows should match the rest of your interior and the theme of the room. Here are some tips:
    1. Modern Style :
    o Choose solid colors or graphic prints with clean lines. Materials such as velvet or imitation leather can give a luxurious and modern look.
    o Mix and match decorative pillows of different sizes and shapes to add depth and interest without straying too far from the modern aesthetic.
    2. Classic Style :
    o Go for timeless patterns such as stripes, checks or damask. These patterns go well with traditional furniture and rich fabrics such as silk or linen.
    o Combine neutral tones with rich colors like deep blue, burgundy or emerald green to create an elegant look.
    3. Bohemian Style :
    o Opt for colourful ethnic prints, fringes and embroidered details. Combine different textures such as cotton, jute and wool for an eclectic, boho look.
    o Use a mix of bright colors and earth tones to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
    4. Minimalist Style :
    o Minimalist interiors call for simple, plain decorative cushions in neutral colours such as white, grey, black or beige. Keep the lines clean and the designs simple.
    o Use only a few well-placed pillows to maintain a calm and streamlined look.

2 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to materials

  • The material of decorative pillows is a crucial factor that determines both the look and comfort. Here are some popular materials to look for when buying decorative pillows , with their pros and cons:
    1. Cotton :
    o Benefits: Breathable, durable, soft, and easy to clean.
    o Disadvantages: May shrink after washing and is prone to staining.
    2. Linen :
    o Benefits: Natural look, lightweight, breathable and perfect for the summer months.
    o Cons: Wrinkles easily and can be pricey.
    3. Velvet :
    o Advantages: Luxurious appearance, soft and comfortable. Perfect for a warm and elegant atmosphere.
    o Disadvantages: More difficult to clean and prone to wear and tear.
    4. Wool :
    o Benefits: Warm, durable and a natural choice for the winter months.
    o Disadvantages: Can itch and is more sensitive to stains and dirt.
    5. Faux Leather or Suede :
    o Advantages: Easy to clean, modern and cool.
    o Disadvantages: Less breathable and may feel cold.
    6. Silk and Satin :
    o Advantages: Very luxurious and shiny appearance. Perfect for a chic and classic interior.
    o Disadvantages: Very delicate and difficult to maintain.

3 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to colours and patterns

  • Color and pattern are crucial in determining the overall look and feel of your interior. Here are some tips for buying the right colors and patterns:
    • Color scheme : Choose colors that complement your existing color scheme. If you have a neutral interior, you can add an accent with colorful throw pillows. In an already colorful room, neutral throw pillows can bring peace.
    • Contrasting and Complementary Colors : Use contrasting colors to create a dynamic effect. For example, a dark blue sofa with yellow cushions creates a lively look. Complementary colors, such as green and red, can also create a pleasing visual effect.
    • Mix of Patterns : Mix and match different patterns such as stripes, flowers and geometric shapes. Make sure that the colours stay within the same palette to maintain harmony. For example, combine a large floral pattern with a subtle stripe or dot.
    • Seasonal Colors : Match your throw pillows to the season. Choose warm tones like ochre, burgundy, and olive green for fall and winter, and light colors like pastel blue, soft pink, and mint green for spring and summer.
    Learn more about using colors in your interior in our blog about the color wheel .

  • To buy the perfect colours, it is useful to pay attention to basic colours such as beige and grey, and accent colours, such as red and blue. Basic colours provide peace while accent colours provide striking liveliness. It is best to combine a few colours with each other, without exaggerating. A combination of two or three different colours provides harmony. You can choose plain colours but also patterns and prints. Pay attention to the repetition of the colours and patterns used.
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?

4 - Buying decorative cushions = pay attention to number, size and shape

  • First, you need to ask yourself where you want to place your decorative pillows . The size and shape play an important role in determining the balance and proportion in your interior. Here are some popular sizes, where and how to use them:
    1. Square Cushions ( 45x45 cm , 50x50 cm ) : These are the most common and versatile sizes. They fit well on most sofas, in normal to slightly larger sizes, and chairs and can easily be combined with other shapes. For the smaller sofas and chairs, it is best to buy slightly smaller sizes.
    2. Large Square Decorative Cushions ( 60x60 cm , 65x65 cm) : These are ideal for larger sofas or as decorative elements on a bed
    3. Rectangular Decorative Cushions ( 30x50 cm , 40x60 cm ) : Perfect for extra lumbar support on a sofa or chair. They also add variety to a cushion arrangement.
    4. Round and Oval Cushions : These shapes are less commonly used, but can add a playful and unique element to a cushion arrangement.
    5. Lumbar Cushions : Specially designed for back support, ideal for armchairs or accent chairs.

  • You can create a playful effect by combining pieces in different sizes, shapes and textures. Create depth by not laying them all in a row next to each other, but in layers. Place the larger ones in the background and the smaller ones in the foreground.

  • Regarding the number, it is important to consider the place where you want to place the decorative cushions. On a chair or armchair, one is usually enough. A large sofa can have five, while on a smaller sofa, two are enough. It is an unwritten rule that an odd number is the most beautiful, but the most important thing is what you like yourself. The only thing you have to pay attention to is that you do not put exactly the same ones in a row next to each other on the sofa. This would rather have a boring effect.

5 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to fillings

  • The filling of a decorative cushion is essential for both comfort and durability. There are different types of fillings available:
    1. Down and Feathers :
    o Advantages: Soft, comfortable and gives a luxurious look. Pillows filled with down and feathers retain their shape well and are easy to fluff.
    o Disadvantages: Requires regular maintenance and is less suitable for people with allergies.
    2. Polyester fiber :
    o Benefits: Affordable, hypoallergenic, comfortable, sturdy and holds its shape well. This filling is ideal for cushions that are decorative .
    o Disadvantages: Less luxurious than natural fillings.
    3. Foam :
    o Benefits: Firm and provides excellent support, ideal for lumbar pillows.
    o Disadvantages: Less soft and less pliable than down or fiber fillings.
    4. Kapok and Cotton :
    o Benefits: Natural, breathable and hypoallergenic. An eco-friendly option.
    o Disadvantages: May compress over time and has less resilience.

6 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to maintenance

  • The maintenance of decorative pillows is an important factor to consider, especially if they are used often or if you have pets or children. Here are some tips:
    • Removable covers : Choose decorative pillows with removable covers that are machine washable. This makes it easier to keep your pillows clean.
    • Stain-resistant fabrics : Consider stain-resistant materials such as microfiber, leather or outdoor fabrics, especially if the cushions will be placed in a high-traffic area.
    • Regular maintenance : Shake pillows regularly to maintain their shape. Down pillows may require weekly shaking to prevent clumping.
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?

7 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to price and quality

  • Price is often a consideration when buying decorative pillows . While inexpensive pillows can be attractive, it is important to invest in quality for long-term use and comfort.
    • Cheap Decorative Cushions : Suitable for temporary use or if you want to change the cover regularly. With cheap cushions you often have to make compromises in terms of material, filling, and durability. These cushions can quickly lose their shape or wear out, especially if they are used intensively. Therefore, it is good to weigh the benefits of a slightly higher investment against the costs of regular replacement.
    • Higher-end Cushions : Higher-end cushions , often made with natural materials such as down, wool or linen, offer greater comfort, durability and aesthetic value. They retain their shape longer and often feature high-end finishes and details, such as embroidered patterns or unique fabrics.
    • Value for money : When buying a decorative pillow, look at the value for money. Ask yourself if the pillow offers a good combination of aesthetics, comfort, durability and ease of maintenance. Read ratings and reviews from other customers to get an idea of ​​the quality.

8 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to the seasons

  • A trend that is becoming increasingly popular is the use of seasonal throw pillows . This means changing your pillow arrangement based on the season to give your interior a fresh look.
    • Summer and Spring : Opt for light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen in fresh, bright colors like white , light blue , mint green and pastels . These colors and materials create an airy and light atmosphere that is perfect for the warmer months.
    • Fall and Winter : Use warm and cozy fabrics like velvet, wool, and faux fur in rich colors like ochre , deep red, olive green , and dark blue . These materials add warmth to your interior and create a cozy atmosphere during the colder months.
    • Benefits of seasonal cushions : By changing cushions with the seasons, you can easily change the look of your interior without making big purchases. In addition, you can take advantage of seasonal discounts and collections that are specially designed to match a particular season.

9 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to sustainability and environmentally friendly options

  • Sustainability is becoming increasingly important when choosing interior products, including decorative pillows . Many consumers prefer environmentally friendly materials and production processes. Here are some tips for making sustainable choices when buying decorative pillows :
    • Choose natural materials : Materials like organic cotton, linen, wool, and kapok are sustainable options that are environmentally friendly and use fewer chemicals during production. They are biodegradable and often hypoallergenic.
    • Look for recycled materials : Some brands offer throw pillows made from recycled materials, such as recycled polyester or repurposed fabric scraps. These options reduce waste and give old materials new life.
    • Support ethical brands : Buy from brands that are committed to ethical manufacturing practices. This includes fair wages, safe working conditions and transparent supply chains.
  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?

    By working with decorative cushions in different layers, shapes, sizes and materials, you add depth, which creates a playful effect.

  • Waarop letten bij de aankoop van sierkussens?

10 - Buying decorative cushions : pay attention to special functions and applications

  • Throw pillows aren't just decorative; they can also provide functional benefits depending on their design and placement. Here are some special uses to keep in mind when buying throw pillows :
    • Ergonomic support : Some decorative pillows , such as lumbar pillows, are specifically designed to provide back or neck support. This can be especially helpful in home offices, reading nooks, or TV rooms where prolonged sitting is common.
    • Outdoor and Garden Cushions : Cushions specially designed for outdoor use are made of water-resistant and UV-resistant materials such as acrylic and olefin. They are ideal for gardens, patios, and balconies because they can withstand the elements.
    • Allergy-friendly options : For people with allergies, hypoallergenic pillows are available, filled with synthetic fibers or natural cotton, which repel dust and allergens.

11 - Buying decorative cushions : Where can you buy the best ones?

  • You can easily buy the most beautiful decorative cushions online at Julien Deluxe. Buying decorative cushions may seem like a small decision, but it can have a big impact on the look, comfort and functionality of your interior. By paying attention to factors such as style, material, colour, size, filling, maintenance, price and durability, you can make a well-considered choice that suits your needs and taste. Whether you are looking for something timeless, modern or unique, there is a decorative cushion for every room and every budget. By buying smart, you can create a comfortable and stylish atmosphere that really makes your house feel like home. Do you need help or advice to make the perfect choice? Do not hesitate to contact us. You can do this via the chat on the webshop, via the contact form or via email info@julien-deluxe.com .
    Remember to regularly change, clean and combine your decorative cushions to keep your interior fresh and exciting. Have you found your perfect decorative cushions yet? Share your experience, tips and pictures by sending us an email at info@julien-deluxe.com ! We would love that!

Even more blog articles about decorative cushions in your interior

Discover our extensive collection of decorative cushions and decorative cushion covers here