Gift Shop Plus Summer 2022

Cozy Comfort By Debbie Eisele

Overall consumers are embracing a comfortable, cozy feel with a neutral approach for pillow and throws. Yet, there is still a definite nod to the essence of the natural world in terms of patterns and colors. Mother Nature’s hues of brown, greens, and some blues are making a mark in this category.

This year and into 2023, textures are important to shoppers. Lauren Brekke, vice president of merchandise for Mud Pie shared that one of the big trends for fall and holiday 2022 is special finishes — ones with tactile appeal such as embroidery, tassels, pom poms and soft, touchable fabric.

“Some of our pillow offerings include pleated and layered jewel toned velvet, oversized tassels and chunky woven knits. Traditional Christmas colors always perform well during the winter season, but we’ve also incorporated trending plaids for an updated, season-less look. We feel that the end consumers are open to being a bit playful with pillow shape and are looking for round pillows, bolsters, and mini pillows for their everyday and seasonal décor,” Brekke detailed.

Textile options reflecting a cozy-feel are still rising in popularity. Brekke noted that soft chenille throws, and leopard prints and neutral tones are hitting all the right notes with consumers.

Jordain Foster, sales manager for Simply Southern echoed this trend. “Our customers are still in the era of comfort, comfort, comfort!” You will see this trend throughout our upcoming Fall 2022 line,” Foster emphasized.

Shoppers are also taking note of earth-friendly options. “When wanting sustainability, the best fabric options you have are cotton and linen. Most decorative throw pillows are made with synthetic materials and hidden chemicals. Cotton is natural and known for being eco-friendly. What to look for if the label doesn’t say ‘Organic Cotton’? The Oeko-Tex certification,” Gopi Balakrishnan, director of Threadmill Home Linen explained.

Shape and style is also important in pillows and throws. In pillows, there is a distinct nod to the 1970s with round and more bulbous styles on tap. Written sentiments also remain popular, especially those with a nod to family, inspiration and humor.

“People are looking for ways to add personality to their homes. Bold, graphic text pillows are great statement pieces that punctuate any space. Looped textures are a key trend element that is tactile and adds dimension,” Russell Manzano, product designer for Abbott Collection noted.

In throws, look for patterns that range the gamut from solids, to buffalo checks and plaids, as well as floral and striped. Bigger, bolder offerings — ones that can be shared or offer chunky texture and waves — are taking centerstage this year.

“Mud Pie is introducing oversized buffalo check chenille blankets in red and white. Trending trims for throws incorporate poms and tassels, and as far as popular colors, we’re seeing a lot of taupe, cream and chocolate brown,” Brekke shared.

“In 2023, expect to see more muted hues and sophisticated neutrals. Throws with outdoor icons, such as birds, butterflies and dragonflies, are a fun way of bringing the outdoors in and adding a touch of whimsy to any space,” Manzano detailed.

Pillow Trends Showcase

Throw Trends Showcase