11 Decorative Pillow Trends to Expect in 2021

It’s safe to say 2020 has been a doozy. The pandemic created one of the most unsettling years in most of our lives. But if one good thing came out of it, we all relearned the simple joys of being home. From spending quality time with our family members, to learning new recipes, to finally getting around to DIY projects and decorative upgrades, we learned how to slow down and enjoy the little things. As we anticipate what’s to come in 2021, we can look forward to fun trends that will allow us to continue the homebody momentum, like putting the finishing touches on decor with pillows.

Decorative pillows have blown up. They offer so much personality in a home. A couch is given new life with a plethora of throw pillows. Seating is extended with floor pillows. The bedroom becomes a cozy-chic escape with natural textiles wrapped around feathered inserts. If you’re ready to dive into 2021 with your best decor foot forward, check out these pillow trends that will be huge.

With mid-century modern ever so popular, it only makes sense to see other nostalgic styles make a comeback. Grandmillennial is your grandmother’s style with an updated twist, like these traditional florals contrasting against a modern gray backdrop. Available on Amazon.

Once a tricky trend to pull off, tropical influence has veered away from tacky florals and moved in a direction of minimalism. Check out this set of four tropical plant leaf throw pillows. The muted yellow and gray hues give the typical tropical look a toned down vibe. Available on Amazon.

Related: The Best Throw Pillows for the Home

Authenticity in home decor will be popular in 2021 as people search for one-of-a-kind decor pieces made of natural materials. Mudcloth prints lend a hand in that desire, and will be especially popular for those looking to ignite a global feel within the home. These hand-painted mudcloth pillows are made in a fair-trade environment by a group of master artisans in Segou. Available on The Citizenry.

Adding a touch of glam to your home without fully committing to the 1920s modernized style can best be achieved with small decor pieces. Add richness to your living room couch by placing graphic symmetrical designs that pay homage to the art-deco trend, like these white and gold pillows. Available on society6.

The resurgence of blue in the home will look a little moodier in 2021. Sophisticated, muted navy will make a statement in small doses, like blue throw pillows on a bright white couch. This velvet option will add a little luxury, too. Available on Pottery Barn.

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Animal print is bigger than ever right now. Fulfilling your love for the trend while not outwardly covering furniture or pillows in animal print can be achieved with funky-chic wildlife designs on throw pillows. Make a toned-down statement with faded cheetahs taking over a cream-color lumbar pillow. Available on The Inside.

The arts and crafts trend will take center stage in 2021, thanks to the growing desire to support small businesses and their emphasis on handmade over mass-produced goods. This throw pillow feels equally minimal as much as it does crafty. The Mackintosh Rose, a well-known design of the American Arts and Crafts era, contrasts with a modern gray backdrop. Available on Etsy.

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From square cushions to poufs, floor pillows extend our idea of comfort throughout the home. With more time spent indoors and in small groups, they allow for intimate gatherings in a laid-back environment. This beige design will transfer easily from room to room. Available on Walmart.

Statement pieces don’t have to be big or bold in color. An orb-shape is the perfect addition to a mid-century home that’s begging for a final addition to the contemporary decor. These off-white orb pillows are sure to be a talking point. Available on Kardiel
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Modern, bold, and yet still minimal in design, this retro-inspired style will make a big comeback in 2021. Go one step further and combine different textures for the ultimate statement, like this linen and velvet throw pillow featuring a dark horseradish hue. Available on West Elm.

With more time spent at home than ever before, styling the exterior of your home to feel like its own oasis has become a popular trend. Adding decadent fabrics and hues to patio chairs with indoor throw pillows is one way to add extra elegance. This cream and gray shag throw pillow feels entirely indoor-worthy, but it’s crafted of soft thread woven from recycled water bottles, so it can be used for outdoor living as well. Available on World Market.