Rugs, Pets & Pro Styling Tips: The Ultimate Q&A with the Experts at Fabulive

Whether you’re a lifelong rug enthusiast or just beginning to explore how the perfect rug can elevate your home, we’re so happy you’re here. This series is your go-to source for answering your biggest, boldest, and most curious questions—from understanding rug sizes and materials to figuring out how to layer like a designer. With Fabulive, you’ll gain all the insight you need to create a space that’s as functional as it is fabulous.


Each month, the Fabulive team, in collaboration with talented interior designers, digital creators, and real-life rug lovers, shares answers to your most frequently asked questions. Whether it's the latest trends in washable rugs, how to style rugs in open-concept homes, or tips for picking a rug that can stand up to kids and pets, we've got you covered. At Fabulive, we believe design should be accessible, inspiring, and—most of all—reflective of you.


We’re Making Rug Advice Personal—and Practical

Let’s face it: with so many sizes, weaves, textures, colors, and materials on the market, choosing the right rug can feel like navigating a maze. Should you go for a natural jute rug or a plush, patterned one? Will your rug be durable enough for a busy hallway? Is it worth getting a machine-washable rug for your entryway?


That’s exactly where Fabulive steps in.


We’re not just about selling beautiful rugs—we’re committed to educating and empowering you through the design process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned home decorator, our Q&A series is here to break down the choices, simplify the process, and bring clarity to every step of your journey.


Our advice goes beyond design trends. We’re answering questions like:


How do I choose a rug that works for a small apartment?


What’s the best rug material for allergy-prone households?


Can I put a rug over carpet?


How do I clean high-pile rugs without damaging them?


Every question comes from you—our readers, shoppers, and followers—and we love digging deep to provide expert-backed, easy-to-implement tips that work for real homes and real lifestyles.


What Makes the Fabulive Q&A Series So Unique?

This isn’t just another home decor blog. It’s a community-driven platform built around real conversations, real people, and real homes. Our inboxes are full of heartfelt questions—from renters making the most of limited space to families seeking comfort and durability in high-traffic zones.


And we’re listening.


Each Q&A installment is crafted around these conversations. You’ll find honest, thoughtful advice on everything from how to pick the perfect hallway runner to layering rugs under dining tables to styling a rug with a bold velvet couch (yes, we’ve got a post for that, too!).


Want your question featured in an upcoming post? Just follow Fabulive on Instagram, tag us in your rug dilemmas, or drop a comment under one of our styling reels. Our team actively reviews your questions and gathers feedback to help shape our editorial calendar.


Why Rugs Matter (More Than You Think)

At Fabulive, we know that rugs are more than just home accessories—they’re foundational pieces that impact the feel, function, and flow of every room. A well-chosen rug can define a space, introduce color or texture, soften hard floors, and even absorb sound in noisy households. For renters especially, rugs are one of the few ways to personalize your space without breaking lease agreements or making permanent changes.


They can turn a cold corner into a cozy reading nook, a blank dining room into a statement-making gathering area, and an open floor plan into an organized and welcoming home.


And best of all? Rugs are flexible. You can roll them up, move them, restyle them, or even wash them—especially if you opt for one of our Fabulive washable rugs, loved for their easy-care convenience and designer aesthetic.



Q: What Are the Best Rug Options for Homes with Shedding Dogs?


This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Fabulive—and we totally get it. Life with a furry friend (especially those lovable shedding champs like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Labradors, or Pugs) can be full of joy—but also fur. Lots of fur. And dander. And muddy paw prints.


But here’s the good news: You don’t have to compromise on style, comfort, or practicality. With the right Fabulive rug, your home can be both polished and pet-proof. Our curated collection of family-friendly rugs is made for real life—designed to handle messes while looking gorgeous underfoot.


The key? Choosing smart, stylish pet-friendly rugs that are beautiful, durable, and easy to clean. Here’s how to find your perfect match.


Step 1: Match the Rug Color to Your Dog’s Fur

This may seem simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to make your home look cleaner—without constantly reaching for the vacuum. Choose a rug color that matches or blends with your dog’s fur.


At Fabulive, we always recommend starting here when browsing our designer washable rugs.


If your dog has light-colored fur (think cream, tan, or white), look for rugs in soft shades like oat, ivory, beige, or pale gray. These tones blend beautifully and help mask shedding between cleaning sessions.


If your dog has darker fur (black, brown, gray), opt for richer tones like charcoal, espresso, rust, or warm taupe. These shades do a great job of hiding dark hair and keeping your floors looking cleaner, longer.


It’s a simple styling hack that makes a huge difference—especially in homes with multiple pets or high traffic.


Step 2: Choose Patterned Fabulive Rugs to Conceal Fur

When it comes to managing visible shedding, patterns are your best friend. Rugs with subtle prints, distressed finishes, or tonal variation are incredibly effective at disguising fur, dust, and pet messes. Plus, they add depth and dimension to your space.


Why do patterned rugs work so well in pet-friendly homes?


They break up the visual space, so stray fur blends in instead of standing out.


They hide paw prints, crumbs, and minor stains better than solid-color rugs.


They suit a wide variety of interior styles—from boho and farmhouse to modern and transitional.


Fabulive’s collection of patterned rugs includes abstract motifs, medallion designs, vintage-inspired looks, and more—giving pet owners plenty of stylish options.


Avoid solid-colored rugs, especially in white or black, which show hair and dirt more easily. Similarly, sharp geometric or striped designs can sometimes emphasize fur rather than hide it.


Step 3: Say Yes to Machine-Washable Area Rugs

Let’s face it—life with dogs can get messy. From accidents to muddy paws and spontaneous zoomies, things happen. That’s why machine-washable rugs are an absolute must.


The beauty of Fabulive’s washable rug collection is that you get both form and function. You don’t have to sacrifice beauty for practicality. You can simply roll up your rug, toss it in the washer, and enjoy a fresh, clean space with minimal effort.


Here are some of our most-loved machine washable rugs for pet owners:


The Paddle Rug – Sleek and modern, this rug offers a clean look with durable construction and a soft feel.


Rosette Medallion Washable Rug – A fan favorite, this rug features a faded pattern that beautifully disguises fur, dust, and foot traffic.


Marbled Texture Rug – With its painterly swirls and soft undertones, this one is great for busy homes with pets and kids alike.


Perfect for entryways, living rooms, kitchens, or play zones, these rugs are low-maintenance lifesavers that bring comfort and ease to your everyday routine.


Bonus Tips for Pet Parents

Here are a few more insider tips from the Fabulive team to keep your home feeling fresh and fur-free:


Invest in a Rug Pad

A rug pad provides extra cushioning, keeps your rug in place (especially important for energetic pets), and extends the life of your rug. Plus, it prevents curling edges and makes vacuuming more efficient.


 Keep a Pet Cleaning Kit Handy

Have a stash of quick-clean tools nearby: a handheld vacuum, pet hair roller, microfiber cloth, and an enzymatic cleaner for any surprise messes.


Rotate Rugs Regularly

Rotating your rugs every few months helps distribute wear evenly and prevents one area from becoming overly worn or discolored due to pet activity.


Choose Low-Pile or Flatweave Rugs

These are easier to clean and less likely to trap fur than high-pile or shag styles. Many of Fabulive’s washable rugs are flatwoven for exactly this reason—easy maintenance, maximum style.




Q: How Do I Choose a Rug That Feels Calm and Not Overwhelming?

If you’re someone who loves a calm, clean aesthetic, you’re not alone. At Fabulive, many of our shoppers and followers express the same desire: to maintain a serene, neutral interior while still adding warmth, personality, and style through rugs. But let’s be honest—finding a rug that adds charm without visual chaos can be a challenge.

Some rugs may feel too loud, with bold prints, heavy textures, or clashing color palettes that overwhelm your space. Especially in open-concept or high-traffic homes, the wrong rug can quickly dominate the room. But don’t worry—Fabulive rugs are designed with both style and simplicity in mind. Here’s how to choose one that enhances your room without disrupting your peaceful vibe.

Embrace the Power of Textured Neutrals

Texture is your secret design weapon. If you’re trying to avoid overly “busy” looks but still want depth and interest, start with a rug in a neutral color that features rich material details. Instead of busy prints, go for woven or looped textures, braids, or nubby wool blends.

Some of our favorite low-maintenance rugs for a minimalist look include:

Veronica Wool Braided Rug – offers soft, braided texture in gentle neutral tones

Chunky Jute Tasseled Rug – adds warmth and grounding through natural jute fibers and fringe detail.

Aisha Monochrome Texture Rug – brings subtle monochromatic patterning and softness perfect for cozy, modern spaces.

These durable rugs for busy homes are not only soothing to look at but also incredibly versatile. They match beautifully with wooden furniture, light upholstery, and soft metallics, and they age gracefully with evolving decor.

Choose Subtle Patterns That Soothe, Not Shout

If you still want a little pattern without the chaos, opt for gentle, tone-on-tone motifs or soft geometric designs. These patterns give definition and a touch of visual interest—without overtaking the rest of your decor.

Our Fabulive rugs designed for subtle elegance include:

Ripple Waves Rug – soft, flowing lines that mimic movement and calmness.

Moroccan Trellis Rug – a timeless design with geometric repetition that feels structured yet gentle.

Rosette Medallion Fringed Rug – a customer favorite featuring delicate medallions and fringe, perfect for spaces needing warmth without noise.
Subtle patterns are ideal for high-traffic area rugs because they balance larger furniture pieces and help ground the room—especially in open-plan settings.

Make Use of the “Rug in Room” Preview Tool

Still unsure whether a rug will fit into your space without overpowering it? Fabulive’s “Rug in Room” tool is the perfect solution. This visualizer allows you to upload a photo of your room and preview how different rugs will look in your exact layout.

You can see:

How the rug complements your furniture

Whether the pattern feels balanced

How the color plays with lighting and other textures

This tool takes the guesswork out of shopping and ensures you choose a rug that fits your definition of calm and stylish.

Bonus Tip: Go Washable for Peace of Mind

Even minimalist spaces need practicality. If your home includes pets, kids, or frequent guests, washable rugs for pets and high-traffic areas are a must. Many of our Fabulive machine-washable rugs are crafted with soft textures, elegant neutrals, and subtle patterns—ideal for keeping your serene space clean without constant worry.

When it’s time for a refresh, just toss your rug in the wash. No stress, no heavy-duty cleaning—just beautiful, low-maintenance rugs that support your lifestyle.

Our Rug in Room feature lets you upload a photo of your actual room and see how different rugs will look in your space before you commit. It’s an easy, no-risk way to visualize scale, tone, and pattern in context, and it’s a customer favorite for a reason.


Q: How Do I Layer Rugs the Right Way?

We love this question—because at Fabulive, layering rugs is one of our favorite design strategies for transforming any room with minimal effort. Whether you're designing a cozy nook, a polished living space, or a trendy boho bedroom, rug layering adds a stylish, thoughtful look that feels curated and inviting.

Best of all? You don’t need to be a professional interior designer to master the technique. With a few simple tips, layering Fabulive rugs can completely elevate your space and reflect your unique style.

Step 1: Start with a Neutral Base Rug

The foundation of a successful rug layering setup is a neutral area rug that acts as your base. This rug should be larger in size and laid down first to anchor your furniture and define the space.

At Fabulive, we recommend natural textures for the base, such as:

Handspun Jute Rug – Durable, eco-friendly, and full of earthy charm, perfect for grounding a space.

Sutton Solid Chevron Rug – Low-pile and subtly patterned, perfect for adding quiet texture and visual interest without distraction.

These Fabulive rugs bring a warm, grounded feel to your room while giving your top rug a clean stage to shine. The neutral tones and natural weaves complement any interior style—from modern farmhouse to coastal minimalism to Japandi aesthetics.

Pro Tip: The base rug should be large enough to support your furniture layout. Ideally, place at least the front legs of your sofa, bed, or chairs on the rug. This trick ties your layout together and enhances flow in the room.

Step 2: Add Personality with a Top Rug

Now comes the fun part—selecting your top rug! This is where you get to showcase your personality, style, and creativity. The top rug is typically smaller and layered on an angle or directly centered over the base rug.

Here are some Fabulive favorites for layering:

Tasseled Medallion Rug – Ideal for boho lovers, this rug features rich patterns and playful fringe that add character.


Rosette Medallion Fringed Rug – A great transitional piece with vintage flair and ornate detailing.

Clouded Impressionism Rug – A soft, abstract style that offers painterly contrast and a touch of modern art.

Wild Fern Rug – A nature-inspired piece with a muted color palette, great for layering in wellness-inspired spaces.

Layered rugs work well for showcasing accent rugs that might otherwise feel too small. By giving them a larger base, you create visual harmony while drawing attention to your favorite textures and prints.

Step 3: Get the Sizing Just Right

Balance is everything when it comes to layering. Your top rug should always be smaller than your base rug to allow contrast and definition. As a rule of thumb, leave at least 8–12 inches of the bottom rug showing around the edges of the top rug.

Some tried-and-true combos:

A 5’x8’ patterned rug layered over an 8’x10’ jute rug

A 3’x5’ accent rug layered over a 6’x9’ flatwoven rug

A faux cowhide or irregular-shaped rug on top of a neutral rectangle rug for organic, free-form appeal

This sizing trick helps avoid visual clutter and ensures the layering effect looks intentional and artfully styled.

Fabulive’s Layering Ideas by Room Type

Not sure where to start? Here are a few room-specific layering scenarios to spark inspiration:

Living Room: Try an 8’x10’ Handspun Jute Rug as your base with a 5’x8’ Rosette Medallion Rug on top. This setup grounds your seating area while adding visual richness.

Bedroom: Layer a plush runner at the foot of the bed over a large area rug that spans beneath the bed. It adds texture and a boutique-hotel feel.

Home Office: Use a neutral flatwoven rug as your base, and top it with a patterned accent rug beneath your desk or reading chair for a cozy, styled workspace.


Entryway: A washable jute rug layered with a small patterned top rug gives your entry both structure and flair—and is practical for catching dirt and paw prints.

Try Before You Style: Fabulive’s Room Visualizer Tool

Still unsure what combo works best in your space? Use the Fabulive Rug Visualizer Tool—a free, interactive resource that lets you upload a photo of your room and test different rug layering options in real time.

You’ll be able to:

Preview patterns and sizes

Experiment with color combinations

Choose the right scale for your furniture and layout

Gain confidence before making a purchase

It’s an easy way to turn your ideas into reality—and make sure your layered rug setup looks just right.

Q: What’s the Best Rug to Pair with an Olive Green Velvet Sofa?

This is one of the most popular design questions we’ve been seeing lately—and for good reason! The olive green velvet couch has officially taken over as a staple in modern interiors. It’s rich, luxurious, earthy, and endlessly stylish. Whether your space leans classic, boho, modern, or eclectic, an olive green couch makes a bold design statement.

But the next big question is: What rug do you pair with it?

At Fabulive, we believe rugs aren’t just floor coverings—they’re styling tools that can transform your space, bring balance, and ground your furniture. Whether you want a look that’s neutral and natural, boldly contrasting, or richly textured, we’re breaking down the best Fabulive rugs to pair with your olive green velvet couch.


Option 1: For a Grounded, Natural Look – Choose Neutral Area Rugs

One of the easiest and most timeless ways to style around an olive green sofa is by keeping the rug simple and neutral. Creams, beiges, oat tones, and soft greys help create a calming foundation while letting the green velvet take center stage.

Top Fabulive Picks for Grounded Neutrals:

Gothic Rosette Medallion Tassel Rug – With its delicate ivory tones and soft patterning, this rug brings just enough visual interest without overpowering the richness of your couch. The fringe adds movement and charm.

Eldorado Rug – Featuring a washed-out vintage Persian-inspired pattern, this rug adds texture and subtle history to your space while staying light and airy.

Handwoven Jute Jagged Chevron Rug – For texture lovers, this jute piece is a win. Its chevron pattern adds energy, while the natural fibers ground the room and bring out the earthy undertones in olive green.

Why it works: Neutral rugs create a serene, cohesive space. They work particularly well in minimalist, Japandi, Scandinavian, or modern farmhouse interiors where light and balance are key. Pair with wood accents, linen drapes, and light-colored cushions for a breezy, collected look.

Option 2: For Bold Contrast – Embrace Color and Pattern

If you want to make your olive green velvet couch pop, consider choosing a rug that contrasts with it. Bold, saturated tones such as rust, burgundy, terracotta, blush, and mustard can create dynamic, curated spaces full of personality.


High-Contrast Rug Picks from Fabulive:

Tasseled Medallion Rug – Available in vibrant rust and burgundy hues, this rug has global flair with its medallion design and playful tassels. Perfect for boho, eclectic, or vintage-inspired homes.

Clouded Impressionism Rug – This abstract piece combines warm pinks, soft golds, and taupes for an artistic, modern vibe. It complements green velvet with painterly contrast.

Distressed Persian Rug in Red or Gold – If you love that layered, lived-in aesthetic, a distressed Persian design in a warm jewel tone will enhance your space with timeless elegance.

Why it works: Green and red are complementary colors on the color wheel. By leaning into jewel tones or warm hues, you create a rich, inviting atmosphere that feels layered and intentional. Add brass lighting, velvet throw pillows in coordinating tones, and gold-rimmed decor for a high-style look.

Option 3: For Texture and Charm – Add Layers of Tactile Beauty

Maybe your goal isn’t bold color or a dramatic contrast, but instead, you’re looking to soften the space with tactile appeal. Textured rugs can add coziness, depth, and personality without relying on color. They also work great in rooms with sleek furniture, minimalist lines, or industrial finishes.

Fabulive Rugs for a Textured Aesthetic:

Felted Wool Tassel Rug – Crafted from soft wool and finished with tassels, this neutral beauty adds comfort and style without stealing attention from your couch.


Wool Geometric Rug (Multi) – A modern option that combines soft color shifts with subtle geometric shapes, adding interest and polish to any space.

Braided Chunky Wool Rug – All about texture, this rug feels handwoven and organic, the perfect counterbalance to the smooth finish of a velvet couch.

Why it works: Texture plays a huge role in creating warm, welcoming rooms. Layering different surfaces—like plush velvet, braided wool, or nubby knits—brings dimension and makes your space feel lived-in and inviting.

Expert Styling Tips from Fabulive

 Layer Your Rugs

Create editorial charm by layering a patterned rug over a larger neutral base. Try a Chunky Jute Rug underneath a 5'x8' medallion or abstract rug. The layered look adds depth and helps define zones in larger spaces.

 Think Proportions and Placement

For living rooms, an 8'x10' rug is usually the sweet spot under a sofa. Make sure at least the front legs of your couch are placed on the rug to anchor the arrangement. For small spaces or studios, go with a 5'x8', or even layer a 3'x5' accent rug in front for a cozy touch.

 Coordinate Accessories with Rug Tones

Let your rug guide the rest of your decor! If your rug is neutral, bring in soft greens, creams, and natural textures through throw pillows, wall art, or curtains. If bold, pick up its colors in velvet cushions or metallic accents.

 Add a Rug Pad

Don’t forget a rug pad! It keeps your rug in place, protects your floors, and adds extra comfort—especially with layered rug ideas or thinner natural-fiber styles.



Final Tips for Styling Your Olive Green Velvet Couch with the Perfect Rug

Styling an olive green velvet couch isn’t just about matching—it’s about making a statement that feels intentional, layered, and uniquely you. This rich, earthy color is having a serious moment, and when paired with the right rug, it can bring your entire living space to life. Whether you lean minimalist, boho, glam, or traditional, here are a few final tips to ensure your olive green couch and rug combo feels curated, balanced, and oh-so-stylish.


Balance Is Key: Choose the Right Rug Size

An olive green velvet couch already commands attention—it’s bold, elegant, and plush. To make sure your room feels grounded and well-balanced, your rug should hold its own in terms of scale. A rug that’s too small will make the couch feel disconnected from the rest of the space. Aim for a rug that extends at least 6 to 12 inches beyond the sides of your sofa on each end. This not only frames your seating area beautifully but also makes the entire room feel more cohesive and intentional. If your space allows, go bigger. Larger rugs create visual flow and make a room feel more expansive and inviting.


Style Smarter: Use Accessories to Create Harmony

Once your rug is down, the next step is pulling everything together with accessories. Think throw pillows, blankets, curtains, and wall art. This is your chance to echo the tones in both your rug and your couch without making the palette feel too "matchy."


For example, if you’re working with a warm, patterned rug that has hints of terracotta or gold, introduce those colors subtly with accent pillows or art prints. If you’ve opted for a neutral rug to tone down the vibrancy of the couch, use accessories with texture—like nubby knits or linen curtains—to add warmth and dimension. This layering technique makes your space feel complete and effortlessly stylish.


Mind the Lighting: Olive Green Is a Chameleon

Lighting can completely transform the way your olive green velvet couch looks—and how your rug plays off of it. In bright natural light, olive green might take on more yellow or golden undertones. In lower light or artificial lighting, it may read more gray or muted.


When choosing a rug, consider how the room is lit during the times you’re most often in it. If the room gets tons of natural light, you can go for a more saturated or contrasting rug without worrying about the space feeling too dark. If your room leans dim, lighter-toned rugs or those with warm undertones can help lift the look and keep it cozy instead of cave-like.

 Let Your Intuition Lead the Way

At the end of the day, the most successful interiors are those that reflect you. If a certain rug makes you pause, smile, or feel excited—that’s your sign. Trust your instincts. You don’t have to follow every trend or rule. Maybe you love a bold vintage Persian rug with your modern velvet sofa. Maybe you prefer a neutral jute rug that keeps the focus on your couch. There’s no right or wrong—it’s about what feels good in your home.


Final Thought

Pairing an olive green velvet couch with the right rug is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating a vibe. When done thoughtfully, it elevates your entire living space, blending color, comfort, and personality. So go ahead—layer it up, mix those textures, play with color, and most importantly, trust your gut. Your dream room is just a rug away.

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