Snuggling in style

Sweater-y cable knits, textural weaves, rich faux furs ... this fall, throws are showing up in all the retailers' collections.

Basically small couch blankets, throws set the stage for comfy days spent on a comfy chair cocooned in a comfy -- well, you get the idea.

What makes a throw a must-have is its wrapability. It shouldn't be too weighty and should have a soft, pliant feel. Today's woolens and blends are very different from the scratchy, itchy, heavier versions of the past. And the new synthetics are a tactile wonderland of supple, velvety plushness. In a great color that coordinates with your furniture, a snuggly throw is a functional, stylish accessory.

Elaine Griffin, a contributing design editor to Better Homes & Gardens, recommends restraint when using this decorative element. "Solid colors and discreet patterns add style to living rooms and dens; leave the boldly striped and patterned throws for across the foot of your bed or in children's spaces," she advises.

But she also encourages a little color play.

This undated publicity photo provided by Overstock.com shows a warm-toned beige with brown polka dots cozy throw. (AP Photo/Overstock.com)

"Throws are guilt-free occasions to indulge in the season's trendiest colors," she says. If you can't commit to a burgundy or citron wall, consider a throw in those hues.

Karma Living's got a fun, honeycombed Indian cotton throw with pompom trim, available in a kaleidoscope of playful colors. Homegoods has a big selection of luscious faux furs in chocolate, mink and ivory, sure to get the family pet vying for some cozy real estate. The off-price retailer also has a reversible black and gray fleece throw printed with the invitation "Wrap Around Me." Appliqued flowers add extra flair to a fuzzy confection of organic-hued wool and acrylic. And to evoke the winter cabin vibe, there's a homey reindeer and snowflake patterned throw in cranberry and white.

Those looking for sumptuous, high-end throws might turn to the "Luxe Lodge" fall collection from Schumacher, which includes the Bancroft throw in a windowpane-check Scottish wool, available in sable, malt or oxford gray.