Pastels get a bad rap. Somewhere along the way, they became synonymous with nursery rooms, Easter decorations, and cupcake shops. But here's the truth—when used the right way, soft hues can be just as sophisticated as bold, moody tones. It all comes down to choosing the right shades, textures, and balance!
Our experts at Howard King know exactly how to style pastels in a way that feels refined, not overly sweet. Whether it's a blush velvet sofa or a powder blue accent chair, the right approach can make all the difference.
Choose the Right Pastel Furniture
Not all pastels are created equal—some can feel fresh and modern, while others might look like they belong in a 1950s ice cream parlor. The key is picking the right shades and styles to keep your space looking sophisticated, not saccharine.
- Stick to muted, dusty, or earthy pastels like blush, powder blue, sage green, or lavender gray for a more refined look.
- Avoid overly bright or neon pastels, which can feel juvenile—softer tones bring warmth without overwhelming the room.
- Consider larger statement pieces, like a pastel sideboard or bed frame, to create impact without needing excessive décor.
Balance Pastels with Neutrals and Moody Tones
Soft colors need strong partners. On their own, pastels can float away into overly sweet territory—but anchor them with neutral or dark tones and they suddenly feel grown-up and grounded.
- Neutrals like white, beige, taupe, and gray help pastels pop without overwhelming the space.
- Rich shades like navy, charcoal, or forest green create bold contrast that makes pastels feel more intentional and refined.
- A blush sofa against a dark wall or a sage green chair with neutral accents keeps things balanced and stylish.
- Layering wood tones—especially walnut or oak—adds depth and warmth that plays well with both soft and dark colors.
- Black or dark metal finishes work wonders for grounding pastel pieces and giving them a modern edge.
Incorporate Luxe Textures
Pastels can feel airy and light on their own, but the right textures transform them from simple to stunning. Rich fabrics and high-end finishes give these soft hues the depth and dimension they need to feel sophisticated.
- Velvet, boucle, and linen in pastel tones instantly elevate a space and add a layer of warmth.
- Matte or satin finishes on pastel-painted furniture create a more refined look than high-gloss or plastic-like surfaces.
- Metallic accents—like gold, brushed brass, or matte black—bring contrast and a touch of elegance to pastel pieces.
- Layering different textures, such as a plush pastel or a woven wool throw or a soft-hued cabinet with sleek marble accents, makes the space feel curated and intentional.
Keep It Minimal and Intentional
Too much pastel can make a space feel like you've stepped into a dollhouse, so the trick is knowing when to stop. A few well-placed pieces make a bigger impact than filling a room with soft hues from floor to ceiling.
- Use pastels as statement pieces rather than overwhelming the space—think a single pastel sofa, accent chair, or cabinet.
- To prevent a washed-out look, balance the rest of the room with neutral tones, deep colors, or rich textures.
- Avoid mixing too many pastel shades in one space—stick to one or two for a more curated, intentional feel.
- Let pastels shine by keeping décor minimal; clean lines and uncluttered spaces help maintain an elegant look.
Pastels, But Make It Chic
The secret to making pastels work? Confidence—and a little expert guidance never hurts. With the right styling, soft hues can bring elegance and charm to any space without feeling childish. It's all about balance, texture, and knowing when to go bold and when to keep it subtle.
If you're ready to bring pastels into your home, stop by Howard King and let our experts help you find the perfect pieces. Have questions? We're here to help—whether you need advice on color pairings or just want to see how pastels can fit into your space.