Who has two thumbs and scored a fun new crisscross pillow for $2.63? This girl.
A recent trip to Bed Bath & Beyond ended in one of my best scores to date. I dug through the discount pillow bin and pulled out a beautiful lattice pillow that had been marked down twice—first by 50% and then again by 75% off the sale price. For just $2.50 plus thirteen cents tax, this eye-catching pillow came home with me. It brightened the bed instantly and blends surprisingly well with my existing pillows. It’s always a thrill to find something that looks expensive but wasn’t.
This little find also makes a great example for anyone learning how to mix patterns and prints in a bedroom. One of the most useful guidelines I follow is to have one pattern that is larger in scale and more graphic, and another that’s smaller and subtler. In this case, the lattice pillow is the bolder, larger-scale element, while the duvet cover provides a finer, more understated pattern. That contrast creates visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Another simple rule that’s helped me time and again is keeping patterns in the same color family. When the tones are related, different patterns can coexist harmoniously instead of competing for attention. The pillow and duvet here share similar blue and neutral tones, so they feel cohesive even though the motifs are different. Color unity gives permission to play with scale and texture more freely.
Here’s a closer look at the pillow’s texture and pattern—see how the lattice stitching catches the light and adds a tactile element to the bedding ensemble? Textural contrast is another useful tool when mixing patterns: pair smooth fabrics with nubby weaves, glossy finishes with matte textures, or raised embroidery with flat prints to create depth and a layered, curated look.
If you’re building a pillow collection on a budget, clearance and discount bins can be treasure troves. When hunting for bargains, look for pieces with classic shapes and colors that will work with multiple beds or sofas. A neutral base with one or two accent colors can adapt to seasonal updates or larger decor changes. Also inspect items for construction quality—seams, zippers, and closures—to make sure the deal is truly worth it.
And yes, here’s the receipt to prove it. There’s nothing quite like that small, satisfying rush when the cashier rings up a ridiculous markdown and you realize you just scored a designer look for pocket change. The cashier was amused and surprised by the final price, and I was equally delighted by my luck.
Whether you’re new to pattern mixing or a seasoned decorator, keep these practical tips in mind: choose one dominant pattern and one secondary pattern, stay within a shared color palette, and introduce varied textures for dimension. Shopping clearance racks with a plan can yield high-impact pieces at low cost, and small additions like a standout pillow can refresh a room instantly.
Here’s to major markdowns, thrifty finds, and digging through clearance bins. Happy hunting—and may your next bargain discovery make you smile as much as this one made me.