PILLOW BASICS

Make your bedroom look magazine worthy with these tips for arranging bed pillows.

1) Stack four white pillows at the head of the bed for a clean simple look.

2) For another look, place normal size pillows against the head board and then a pair of big size pillows (shams) covering them. Build upon this basic look by adding accent pillows. Place two identical accent pillows in front of the shams. Cram the look with another printed accent pillow. Asymmetrical arrangement like this creates a traditional, more formal look.

3) For a more relaxed look, start with standard pillows in patterned pillow covers and add plain colored big size pillows (shams). Then add in a few accent pillows. They don't need to be perfectly arranged and can overlap at casual angles.

To dress up a Sofa with Pillows:

1) Ditch the pillows that came with your sofa in favor of a more personal arrangement. Pair a large square plain colored solid pillow with along small patterned pillow for an ensemble without fuss. Place another pillow and throw for balance. Varied shapes and patterns keeps it look interesting and simple.

2) Create the same arrangement on both sides of the sofa for a traditional look, layering in large pillows with small pillows in front. Play with different shapes, textures and patterns to create a look that's fresh and relaxed. Mixing in at least one pair of pillows in the arrangement pulls it all together.

- Prathyusha