Like a necklace that takes an outfit to the next level, pillows are the quintessential personality changer for your home. Whether you prefer shabby chic or feverishly funky, pillows are an easy way to give any room a jolt of personality.
1. Straight-up stripes: Stripes are one of those classic patterns that never go out of style. However, this pillow from HomeSense is a bit more edgy with the infusion of sharp apple green in the neutral palette of whites, greys and charcoals. Filled with duck feathers and measuring 52-centimetres square, it is priced at $29.99.
2. Embellished: If you prefer pillows with shine and texture, take a look at these from Pier 1 Imports. This airy 40-centimetre square pillow with crewel-like embroidery has a real summer feel and will help tie together a green and red colour scheme without feeling like Christmas. On the other hand, this 30- by 51-cm pillow, with its bold rust, orange and gold palette, is more majestic and will make a statement against a tan or dark brown couch. The smaller pillow is $39.95, the larger one is $44.95.
3. Bohemian: This green, red and rust 30- by 50-centimetre pillow has Kashmiri, Rangoli and Barmeri patterns that symbolize good luck and fortune. Filled with cotton batting, the pillow has a genuine East-Indian feel and will maintain its shape, unlike its feather and polyester counterparts. It is available at HomeSense for $19.99.
4. Sea shells by the Seashore: Conjuring up memories of the coast or sunny Florida, this 60- by 30-centimetre driftwood-coloured pillow with seashell embellishments is available at HomeSense for $19.99. Pair it with a vanilla-coloured pillow with anemone-like texture from BouClair for $24.99 and you will swear that you were at a beach resort somewhere far, far away.
5. Flirty florals: Some people like romantic florals, while others like quiet understated florals. This floral pattern with its large stylized daisies is just plain groovy. Reminiscent of fabrics from the 60s, this modern interpretation will take you back to summer of love days. Measuring 52- centimetres square and filled with duck feathers, find it at HomeSense for $34.99. For something a little more tranquil, this 46-centimetre square linen/cotton orange blossom pillow from Gluckstein Home Collection offers a zen feeling. It is available at Home Outfitters for $24.99.
-- Canwest News Service
