Elevate Your Home for Summer with Pillows

Ready to refresh your home for summer without the overwhelm? As an E-Designer and Stylist, I believe achieving a high-end look doesn’t mean buying more. It's about choosing smarter. One of my favorite ways to create a luxurious seasonal shift is through pillows. Yes! Just pillows. But here’s the catch: don't keep buying entire pillows every time the seasons change. That just creates clutter. The key is in the formula, and I’m sharing it with you right here.

The Pillow Insert Formula

Start with the right inserts. These are the foundation of your year-round look. For each main piece of furniture (like your sofa, bed, or sectional), here’s what you’ll need:

• (2) 24x24" inserts

• (2) 20x20" inserts

• (2) 12x20" lumbar inserts

  
  

Once you have these basics, all you’ll need to swap seasonally are the pillow covers. Trust me, your storage space (and your wallet) will thank you.

PRO TIP*: Buy pillow covers 2 inches smaller than the insert for a full, luxe designer look.

Spring & Summer Styling: What to Look For

Top: Left to Right: Beige Chenille cover | White Boucle pillow | Sage Chenille cover

Bottom: Aqua Blue Boucle | Khaki Boucle | Light Blue Boucle

For warmer months, keep things light, airy, and full of texture. Here's how to dress your pillows:

Fabrics to Try:

• Linen

• Bouclé

• Lightweight cotton

• Textured silks

  
  

Color + Pattern Tips:

• Keep your 22” covers neutral – think soft beiges, light grays, creams, or even a pale blue or sage.

• The 18” pillow covers are your opportunity to play—try small-scale prints, subtle stripes, or tone-on-tone patterns.

• For your lumbar pillows, add impact with a bold texture, a modern print, or a grounding solid that ties the look together.

  
  

Not a fan of prints? No problem. Create interest through texture. Pair a smooth linen with a chunky bouclé or slub weave for a polished, elevated mix.

Khaki Boucle pillow cover | Black Boucle pillow cover

Linen Cover w/Beige thread | Black, White Beige Pillow Cover | White & Black stripe

Where & How to Style Them

Let’s break it down room-by-room using your new formula:

For Sofas:

Use all six pillows:

• Place (2) 24” pillows on opposite corners.

• Layer (2) 20” pillows in front.

• Center with (2) lumbar pillows or one on each side.

  
  

For Beds (Queen or King):

• Line the back with (2) 24” pillows.

• Add (2) 20” pillows in front of those.

• Center the look with (2) lumbar pillows or a long lumbar across the front.

  
  

For Sectionals:

• Use one full set of six, divided between ends and middle.

• Or double the formula depending on the size of your sectional.

  
  

Why It Works: The Capsule Home Concept

This approach isn’t just about pillows. It’s about curating a Capsule Home. Think of it like a capsule wardrobe, but for your decor:

• Timeless basics

• Thoughtful seasonal updates

• Zero clutter

  
  

It’s affordable, sustainable, and a seamless way to transition your home through the seasons—while keeping it looking designer-level all year long.

Ready to Style Smarter, Not Harder?

Stay tuned for my Fall/Winter pillow styling guide, or sign up for my FREE Pillow Cheat Sheet if you want the formula in your back pocket year-round. I’ll even show you how to mix these with other seasonal decor to build your very own Capsule Home. One that’s luxurious, lived-in, and 100% you.

Need Help Creating a Custom Look in Your Home?

Let me help! Purchase one of my E-Design Packages to receive a personalized, step-by-step styling guide delivered straight to your inbox. Your design guide includes a clickable shopping list, expert layout tips, and visuals to help you pull everything together with ease. Whether you’re styling a single room or an entire home, I’ll work with you to create a plan that reflects your unique style, budget, and vision. From bedding to accessories, I’ll help you design a cozy retreat that you’ll never want to leave.

🔗 Design Style Quiz and let’s transform your space with just a few clicks!

Conclusion

In conclusion, styling your home for summer doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. By understanding the pillow insert formula, you can create a versatile and beautiful look that enhances your living space. The right fabrics and colors make all the difference, allowing you to express your personal style effortlessly.

Embrace the concept of a Capsule Home for a chic, clutter-free environment. Remember, it’s all about making smart choices. With this approach, you’ll find that your home is not only stylish but also comfortable and inviting.

Are you ready to take your home decor to the next level this summer? Let's get started today!

Disclaimer

Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you decide to make a purchase through one of the recommended partners. I only recommend products and services I trust and believe will be beneficial to my readers. This helps support my efforts in bringing you valuable content. Thank you for your support!