Affordable Throw Pillows in NYC: Where to Start
Throw pillows are the quickest way to refresh a space. They don’t require a renovation budget, they don’t involve power tools, and you won’t need to move out for installation. But many times you walk into a trendy home store in NYC, and you’re staring at a $300 pillow that feels like sandpaper and looks like it belongs in a dentist’s waiting room (no offense to dentists). Not exactly what you had in mind when you set out to find affordable throw pillows in NYC.
The good news? Affordable throw pillows in the city do exist. Our designers rounded up their favorite spots to shop, plus insider tips on how to choose the right inserts, mix patterns, and layer textures so your sofa looks styled by a pro (even if it was styled during your lunch break).
First, How Many Pillows Do You Really Need?
You might have guessed what we’re going to say next: balance is key. Too many pillows and it may look like your furniture is going to float away; too few and it’ll just look sad. So, how many do you really need? Let’s break it down:
- Sofa: 2 to 3 pillows, depending on size and layout
- Sectional: 3 to 7 pillows, depending on size and layout
- Bed: 3 to 5 pillows, max (unless you love making your bed for 20 minutes a day)
- Accent chair: 1 great pillow
Odd numbers tend to look more natural and layered. And mixing up sizes — like a square with a lumbar — adds depth without clutter.
Where to Buy Affordable Throw Pillows in NYC
While this is no means an exhaustive list, we do have some favorite spots for throw pillows. Here are our go-tos:
H&M Home: Linen blends, minimal patterns, on-trend palettes that run about $10–$35.
World Market: They’re actually located in New Jersey, but it’s worth the drive. Boho textures, earthy tones for around $15–$99.
West Elm: Modern designs with zip-off covers in natural fabrics, most within the $39–$109 range.
TJ Maxx: Variety, natural fabrics, down inserts from around $12.99 to $129.99.
Target: Layering textures, seasonal updates. Most pillows are priced between $15 and $75.
Brooklinen: Washed linen and matelassé lumbar pillow covers for $69-$89.
Brooklinen
Don’t Forget the Insert
If the pillow feels like it was stuffed with packing peanuts, skip it. The insert makes a huge difference in how the pillow sits, feels, and holds up over time. Look for:
- Down or down-alternative inserts
- Inserts that are one size larger than the cover (a 22″ insert for a 20″ cover = full, plump look)
- Removable covers for easy cleaning
Trust us, a good insert can make a $15 pillow cover look high-end. We like Pottery Barn and West Elm inserts best, although you can find some good ones on Amazon, too.
Pottery Barn
Styling Tips from Our Designers
- Stick to a palette: Choose one or two colors that work with your room and repeat them across patterns and textures.
- Mix materials: Velvet, linen, cotton, knit—layering texture keeps things interesting.
- Play with pattern scale: Combine a bold print, a small pattern, and a solid or stripe.
- Try asymmetry: Not every side of the sofa needs the same number of pillows. Offset for a more relaxed, designer look.
Why Pillows Matter
They may be small, but throw pillows pull way more weight than their size suggests. The right ones can make your sofa look styled, your bed feel intentional, and your space suddenly read as designer. And here’s the beauty: affordable throw pillows in NYC make it easy to get that look without emptying your treat-yourself fund to pay for a single cushion.
So if you’re tired of sandpaper-textured, overpriced options and want pillows that actually deliver style and comfort, let us help. Book a complimentary consultation, and our designers will build you a mix that’s high on impact, low on stress, and tailored to your space.