Black and White Striped Outdoor Pillows for a Bold Patio

Outdoor living spaces are hugely popular these days. Homeowners are turning their patios, porches, and decks into outdoor oases perfect for relaxing and entertaining. One of the easiest ways to elevate an outdoor space is by adding decorator pillows. Black and white striped outdoor pillows are especially trendy right now. Their bold geometric pattern makes a dramatic style statement. Keep reading to learn all about using these iconic pillows to create a chic outdoor retreat.

Black and white stripes have been a classic home decor motif for generations. They lend a fresh, graphic look to both traditional and modern spaces. When used outdoors, the bold contrast makes quite an impact. Striped outdoor pillows pop against colorful furniture and greenery. They provide the perfect punch of pattern for solid colored cushions and rugs. Black and white stripes feel timeless yet always on-trend.

Where to Use Black and White Striped Outdoor Pillows

One of the great things about decorative pillows is their versatility. Black and white striped outdoor pillows can be used in all sorts of exterior spaces to add visual interest.

• Outdoor patio furniture - Striped pillows are ideal for sectionals, loveseats, chairs, and loungers. Play with mixing solid and striped pillows for a collected look.
• Poolside loungers - Make a cabana area more inviting with striped pillows on pool chairs.
• Front porch rocking chairs - Accent traditional rockers with some graphic pattern.
• Balcony seating - If you have an apartment balcony or rooftop terrace, add pillows to outdoor chairs or benches.

Anywhere you have an outdoor seating or lounge area is fair game for these pillows. Use them to tie together eclectic furnishings with a repeating design motif. Black and white stripes work particularly well in small exterior spaces, as they have a widening effect.

Tips for Styling with Black and White Striped Pillows

When decorating with black and white striped outdoor pillows, keep these tips in mind:

• Mix solid and striped pillows - For a layered look, combine striped pillows with solid white, black, or bright colored pillows.
• Add pops of color - Try turquoise, red, yellow, or emerald green solid or patterned pillows.
• Layer different stripe widths - Wide and narrow stripes layered together add dimension.
• Incorporate various textures - Don't be afraid to mix stripes with floral, nautical, or tribal patterns.

The beauty of these iconic striped pillows is they complement both traditional and contemporary design schemes. Feel free to embrace your eclectic side by mixing colors, patterns, and textures. The overall graphic motif will pull the look together.

Selecting the Best Fabric for Outdoor Pillows

Since black and white striped outdoor pillows live outside and withstand the elements, it's important to choose ones made from durable, weather-resistant fabrics:

• Solution-dyed acrylic - This colorfast, fade-resistant fabric can handle sun, rain, and humidity.
• Olefin - Extremely colorfast and stain-resistant, olefin dries quickly and resists mildew.
• Polyester - Fade- and stain-resistant polyester is machine washable for easy care.
• Canvas - Sturdy and naturally mold-resistant, canvas is a classic outdoor fabric.
• Sunbrella - This popular brand makes fabrics engineered specifically for outdoor use.

Natural fibers like cotton or linen are typically not the best choices, as they absorb moisture and degrade more quickly. For outdoor pillows that can withstand the weather, opt for solution-dyed synthetics.

Caring for Your Outdoor Pillows

While designed for outdoor use, decorative pillows will last longer if properly maintained:

• Washing - Check manufacturer instructions, as most can be machine washed and air dried.
• Storing - During rainy or cold seasons, store pillows in a dry place indoors.
• Preventing fading - When not in use, keep pillows out of direct sunlight.
• Maintaining shape - Fluff and rotate pillows regularly so they maintain their loft.

Be sure to bring pillows inside during extremely wet or windy conditions. A periodic wash is a good idea to remove accumulated dirt and stains. With proper care, high-quality outdoor pillows can last 2-3 seasons.

DIY vs Store Bought Outdoor Pillows

You have two options when acquiring your black and white striped outdoor pillows:

• DIY - Make your own pillow covers from outdoor fabric purchased in a craft store. Stuff with polyfill.
• Store bought - Purchase finished decorative pillows from big box stores, boutiques, or online.

Making your own is easy, customizable, and budget-friendly. However, store bought pillows tend to be higher quality and more durable. Weigh factors like cost, time, and longevity when deciding whether to DIY or buy pre-made.

Where to Buy Black and White Striped Outdoor Pillows

• Big box stores like Target, Walmart, and Cost Plus World Market
• Specialty home decor stores such as Pier 1, Home Goods, and At Home
• Online retailers like Wayfair, Overstock, Amazon, and Etsy
• Local boutiques and specialty shops

Comparison shop to find the best price and widest selection. Be sure to closely inspect product details like materials, construction, filling, and measurements before purchasing.

Prices and Budgeting

What can you expect to pay for black and white striped outdoor pillows? Here are some price guidelines:

• Mass market options cost $10-$30 per pillow on average.
• Higher end designer pillows run $50-$100 per pillow.
• Watch for sales and markdowns, especially at the end of season.
• Coupons and online promo codes can offer significant savings.
• DIY pillows cost $15-25 in supplies depending on size.

Determine how many pillows you need and set a decorating budget. With some deal hunting, you can find trendy striped outdoor pillows at nearly every price point.

Outdoor Pillow Inspiration and Examples

• Transitional style - Mix traditional furniture shapes with modern black and white striped pillow accents.
• Coastal decor - Nautical stripes paired with roped and driftwood elements.
• Modern farmhouse - Crisp graphic pillows contrast nicely with rustic wood furniture.
• Eclectic mix and match - The stripes tie disparate furniture and colors together.

Search sites like Pinterest and Instagram for patio images using the hashtag #blackandwhitestripes to find endless inspirational photos. Let your personal style shine through in choosing and arranging patterned pillows.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

While resilient, outdoor pillows are still vulnerable to certain issues. Be aware of these potential problems and solutions:

• Bleached or faded stripes - Store pillows indoors when not in use.
• Mold or mildew - Wash and thoroughly dry pillows. Store in a dry place.
• Sagging shape - Routinely fluff and rotate pillows.
• Split seams - Avoid overstuffing. Mend or replace damaged pillows.

Check pillows frequently for signs of wear, damage, or discoloration. Address any issues promptly to maintain their appearance and durability.

Additional Outdoor Decor Ideas

• Accent rugs
• Lanterns
• Planters
• Wind chimes

Use repeats of the classic black and white color scheme for a pulled-together look. Mixing in wood tones and greenery helps soften the graphic stripes. For maximum impact, display the bold pattern on surfaces of various shapes and sizes.

Black and white striped outdoor pillows provide timeless style and visual interest to porches, patios, and poolsides. Their classic pattern works with any design aesthetic, adding a graphic punch of contrast. Be sure to select pillows made with durable, weather-resistant fabrics. With proper care, these iconic striped cushions can enhance outdoor spaces for years of changeable seasons.

Outdoor living continues to be a popular home trend. By adding chic black and white striped pillows to your exterior furnishings, you can create a relaxing and inviting oasis for entertaining or everyday enjoyment. Let the versatile stripes become a signature element of your personalized outdoor retreat.