Dakota Johnson doesn't understand karate-chopped pillows | Homes and Gardens

This actress has sparked a debate: to chop, or not to chop? Interior designers weigh in on what they think about the styling trend

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To chop, or not to chop? The latest trend in decorative pillow styling is to 'karate chop' them down the center using your arm. Proponents say the method creates a relaxed atmosphere

However, not all are on board. In a recent interview for Vanity Fair, Dakota Johnson revealed her skepticism of the interior design trend. In a segment about decor hot takes, the interviewer asked her how she feels about karate-chopped pillows. Dakota responded noncommittally, with a laugh: 'Sure, but like, why? You know?'

Though Dakota doesn't see the benefits, interior designers are divided on the pillow arrangement. Some think it is essential, while others feel it looks messy. Let's explore both sides of the argument.

Classic

A simple, recognizable design like this geometric pillow is the perfect finishing touch to add personality to your sofa this summer. Something like this would look perfect paired with solid colored pillows, or something with a lot of texture.

Decorative edge

With a stylish pom pom edge, this piece is a fun twist on the classic pink pillow. It's designed to look chic and feel soft, meaning they deserve a place on every sofa, accent chair or bed

Embroidered Detail

Floral pillows add a stylish, country chic feel to any sofa. This embroidered chambray pillow looks so delicate and luxurious. No one would guess it only costs $12 at Walmart.

David Harris, Design Director at Andrew Martin and self-proclaimed decorative pillow expert, represents the proposition for the pillow trend.

He explains: 'Cushion arrangements shouldn’t look too formal or overly plumped. Whilst thought does go into arranging cushions, they should look casually arranged to feel relaxed and inviting. I’m all for a chop. It makes them effortlessly plump out more, rather than looking flat and square.'

Carlin van Noppen, who has spent over 20 years in the throw pillow industry as owner of Fig Linens and Home isn't so sure.

She tells Homes & Gardens: 'Though I love casual decorative pillow styling, I think "the chop" can look a bit messy, as if you've spent all day sitting on your pillows. Instead, I prefer adding texture and coziness to your sofa with a carefully draped throw pillow. I also think choosing the right cushions that fit cohesively into your scheme can go a long way in making sure your space doesn't feel overly formal.'

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In a world where even the much-emulated Dakota Johnson shares that she 'doesn't know' if she would consider herself a trendsetter, everyone's opinion matters. Now that you've heard all sides of the debate, where do you land? Should throw pillows be karate-chopped? Let us know in the comments.

Sophie is a writer and News Editor on the Celebrity Style team at Homes & Gardens. She is fascinated by the intersection of design and popular culture and is particularly passionate about researching trends and interior history. She is an avid pop culture fan and has interviewed Martha Stewart and Hillary Duff.

In her free time, Sophie freelances on design news for Westport Magazine and Livingetc. She also has a newsletter, My Friend's Art, in which she covers music, culture, and fine art through a personal lens. Her fiction has appeared in Love & Squalor and The Isis Magazine.

Before joining Future, Sophie worked in editorial at Fig Linens and Home, a boutique luxury linens brand. She has an MSc from Oxford University and a BA in Creative Writing and Sociology from Sarah Lawrence College.

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