Pro Advice: What Color Throw Pillows Go with a Gray Couch?
Kalina Todorova describes styling a grey sofa best when she says, “a gray couch is like a white canvas: it can be styled in many ways.”
One of those ways, according to Robin DeCapua, is using neutral throw pillows to make a soft statement. “Our favorite colors to use are ochre, orange, blue, blush or teal,” says DeCapua. “These colors stand out and contrast with the cool neutral tones of light, medium, and dark gray.”
DeCapua also suggests keeping your sofa’s shade of gray in mind while deciding on your throw pillow color scheme. “A very light gray can read almost white, so you’ll want your throw pillows to contrast. So choose either richly hued or darker accent pillows with a light sofa,” she said. “Similarly, a dark grey couch can read as charcoal, so light and bright colors will best complement it. If you must go with neutrals, try a warm neutral on the cool neutral of a gray sofa.”
Sharlene Davis-Henry, on the other hand, prefers using decorative throw pillows in bold colors like reds or oranges to make a statement, neutral colors to create a classic look, or light shades of blues and greens for a calming atmosphere. “It all depends on the mood you’re trying to create with pillows,” says Davis-Henry.
While there’s no color throw pillow cover that you should avoid outright, Davis-Henry recommends being mindful of wall color, rug color, and living room decor when making your selection. “All of these bring the design together to add texture and depth, so you’ll want to ensure that the colors you choose coordinate with the rest of the room.”
Once you’ve selected the color scheme you’d like to work with, consider the materials and patterns of the throw pillows. Kalina Todorova recommends “Coordinating patterns and designs and mixing them up with solid color pillows… by choosing soft, tactile textiles like boucle, chenille, linen, or velvet throw pillows you’ll uplift the look and feel. Contrast creates interest, so go with darker or lighter tones than the couch, and avoid tones that are too similar to the couch.”
Gray Couch Throw Pillow Color Suggestions and Combinations from Pro Designers
Black and white

While there are many different throw pillows that work well with a gray couch, black and white pillows are a classic choice to create a traditional vibe. Heather Mastrangeli agrees, adding that “cream, black, and white are always good neutral colors to use.”
Mustard Yellow

For a warm and inviting color that stands out against the neutral gray of the couch, try mustard yellow. “It adds a pop of color and creates a cozy atmosphere,” says Mike Semegen.
If you’re interested in trying mustard but are nervous about using such a bold shade, start small. A muted shade of mustard adds a little pop of color without being too overwhelming.
Multi Texture

With different textures, and often different colors, multi texture pillow cases add depth to any space. For those wanting to experiment with texture without committing to doing so through the purchase of a large furniture item, throw pillows are a great way to start.
Many like to weave in colors from existing patterns throughout the room into their throw pillow color scheme. For example, if the coffee table in your living room has blue or green accents, choosing a pillow of the same tone can tie the room together.
Blue and Gold

A classic color combination that evokes traditional style while adding a bit of color, blue and gold is a combo many forget about. Try adding these complimentary colors– often referred to as the “power couple” of the color wheel– to your space for a hint of sophistication.
Coastal

The coastal color scheme is widely known to evoke a sense of relaxation. According to Paige Garland, throw pillows in “light colors like cream, blues, taupe, beige, and light greys” create the perfect coastal vibe. Additionally, “mix it up with some tassels, pompoms, and leaf prints” for added texture, says Garland.
Neutrals

You can never go wrong with pairing neutrals. Throw pillows in cream, white, or beige, such as the pillows featured above, pair well with the gray sofa while evoking a minimalist vibe and sense of calm throughout the space. Neutral shades are known to work well with wood furniture as well.
Shades of Gray
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While one might think that shades of gray would create a monochromatic look, gray is a spectrum that evokes different feelings depending on the shade. In the space above, light and dark gray throw pillows placed on a gray sofa create contrast and depth.
Try placing the darkest shades towards the back corners of the sofa and the lightest towards the center. This will create that feeling of depth.
Glam and Textured

Throw pillows make it easy to create a space with layers and dimension. In the space above, Paige Garland uses white faux fur to create a “pop of contrast” to modernize a retro-style sofa.
For those unsure if they’re interested in committing to the faux fur look, opt for a reversible sham. This will allow you to experiment or play it safe, depending on your mood.
Pink and Orange

For a classic color combination for those looking to brighten up a space, try pink and orange throw pillows. These colors never fail to make each other shine, and bring in a summery feel all year round.