get by with one. get the highest thread count you can afford for the greatest comfort. and stick to natural fibers, cotton or linen. they breathe and will give your body better rest. and they are soft.
pillows are a matter of personal preference. some people like down pillows, some prefer down and feather. there are people who like pillows that are one solid piece of foam and people who are devoted to cotton batting. you can spend a lot of money on pillows, but you can get good ones at your favorite discount department store.
to add that touch of luxury to your pillows, get quilted covers for them. these go 