When you think of a plush velvet cushion, you'd expect smart piping or a clean, tailored edge – not a playful frill. And you certainly wouldn't expect to find it paired with classic gingham.
That's because the two fabrics come from opposite ends of the interiors spectrum. Velvet has long been associated with grandeur, luxury and theatrical interiors, while gingham is the humble cotton check synonymous with cottage kitchens, picnic blankets, tea towels and tablecloths. Yet somehow, bringing the two together feels fresh rather than forced.
The luxurious texture elevates the nostalgic pattern, while the gingham softens velvet's formality, creating a look that's both polished and playful. It has our seal of approval.
There's more to love than its unlikely pairing, too. The olive green cushion cover is machine washable, making it as practical as it is pretty, and it's cleverly designed to create that sought-after plump, designer look.
Measuring 43 x 43cm, it's intentionally designed to be slightly smaller than a standard 45 x 45cm cushion pad, allowing it to hug the insert for a fuller, more luxurious finish.
It's a trick our Editor-in-Chief, Torri Mundell, swears by. 'Don't be afraid to supersize,' she says. 'One of the best design lessons I've picked up is that everything instantly feels more luxurious when oversized' and that 'cushion covers stuffed with slightly oversized pads look gloriously plump.'
Whether taking pride of place at the centre of a bed or layered with other cushions on the sofa, this £15 design proves that sometimes the most unexpected combinations make the biggest impact.
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