The art of styling a throw on your beds and sofas

There’s finally a slight chill in the air, and you know what that means—pumpkin spice everything, hot chocolate, Christmas movies, oversized sweatshirts, and, of course, cosy blankets and throws. As the cooler weather sets in, it’s the perfect time to make your home feel warm and inviting. And nothing says cosy quite like a perfectly styled throw. While some might think there’s no “right” way to drape one, your Type-A friend would strongly disagree. For them, every fold, tuck, and angle needs to be just right. 
 
If you’re looking to master the art of styling a throw—whether it’s over a sofa or a bed—keep reading. We spoke to experts Swati Gupta, furnuture designer and founder of Bluedot Design, Shreya Mantri, founder of Altrove, and Sarah Sham, principal designer at Essajees Atelier, to bring you the ultimate guide to getting it just right. 

Layer for texture and warmth

Swati Gupta believes layering is key to creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Mixing throws of varying textures—think chunky knits, soft fleece, or smooth cashmere—adds both depth and warmth to a room. For example, pairing a knitted throw with a plush blanket or draping one over the arm of your sofa doesn’t just look inviting, it feels great to the touch too.

Play with colours and patterns

To get that snug, winter vibe, Shreya Mantri recommends using warm, rich colours like deep reds, mustard yellows, and forest greens. These shades instantly make a space feel more comforting. Patterns like plaids, subtle geometrics, or herringbone can add charm and character. For a bit of fun, experiment with tassels or textured patterns to bring a playful touch to your space. Throws are also a great way to introduce pops of colour and personality, especially in neutral rooms.

Pleating throws on sofas

For that quintessential cosy winter vibe, Sarah Sham recommends styling throws on your sofa in several ways. “You can casually crumple or pleat it across the length of your sofa, then layer cushions on top for a relaxed, lived-in look,” she explains. Alternatively, for a cleaner look, neatly fold and drape the throw over the armrest of your sofa for a more sophisticated feel.

Experiment with functionality

Throws aren’t just for decoration—they’re practical too. Gupta suggests layering throws over your duvet for added warmth or using them as a table runner or on your coffee table for a cosy, homely feel. She highlights their versatility, recommending you fold one over the arm of a chair for an instant style boost or use it to soften a minimalist sofa. She also suggests switching to heavier fabrics like wool, cashmere, or fleece for winter, as these will elevate both the look and the comfort of your space.

The placement matters 

Where you place your throws can completely change the vibe of a room. Swati Gupta suggests draping them over the back of your sofa, the arm of your favourite chair, or even at the foot of your bed. To keep it looking casual yet chic, try loosely folding or scrunching the throw rather than laying it flat. For added depth, you can layer a second throw with a neater fold. Not only does this make your space feel cosy and inviting, but it also keeps your throws within easy reach while doubling as a stylish decorative element.

Laying them horizontally at the foot of a bed

When it comes to the bedroom, Sham suggests throws are a great way to add warmth and style. “You can lay a throw horizontally across the foot of your bed, either neatly folded for a polished look or crumpled for a more relaxed vibe,” she advises. This simple styling trick instantly adds texture and comfort, making your bed the perfect winter retreat.

Lead image credits: Bluedot Design 

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