What Is a Sham in Bedding Fully Explained
Wondering what that fancy pillow cover with frilly edges is called? It’s a sham—and it’s the secret to a cozy, stylish bed.
Key Takeaways
- A sham is a decorative pillow cover designed for visual appeal, not sleep.
- Shams come in various sizes—standard, king, Euro, and boudoir.
- They add layers, color, and texture to elevate your bedding aesthetic.
What Is a Sham in Bedding?
A sham is a decorative cover for a pillow, available in standard, king, Euro, or specialty sizes. The key difference between a sham and a regular pillowcase is that a sham isn’t meant for sleeping. It’s opened in the back—often with an envelope-style closure or hidden zipper—so that the front can show off decorative fabrics, trim, embroidery, or embellishments.
Whereas pillowcases are utilitarian and typically part of your everyday sleep setup, shams are for show. They help you create a designer-inspired look, turning your ordinary bed into a luxurious focal point of the room. Want to switch up your decor without repainting or redoing everything? Swap in new shams for a quick, budget-friendly refresh.
This decorative role makes shams ideal for staging and real estate listings, where a styled bed often makes a dramatic first impression. Plus, since they cover your everyday pillows, they help keep them clean and extend their life.
In summary, a sham is like a stylish jacket for your pillow—meant to be seen, not slept on.
Why It Matters
Shams do more than just make your bed pretty. They help create a sense of completeness in your bedroom decor. When combined with a quilt, duvet, or comforter, matching shams can tie the entire color palette together—giving your bed that layered, thoughtful look often seen in interior design magazines.
They also serve a protective function. By shielding your everyday pillows from dust, sun, and oil from your hands, shams help preserve their cleanliness and structural integrity. Think of it like protective fashion—pretty, but with purpose.
And let’s talk ambiance. Walking into a bedroom with a perfectly made bed—flanked by beautifully arranged shams—instantly promotes calm. It’s like your personal invitation to relax. Want to take it up a notch? Pair them with textured throws or a well-placed piece of wall art to complete your oasis.
In short, shams are the unsung heroes of a styled and serene sleep space.
Types of Shams
Standard Sham
Standard shams fit pillows that are 20″ x 26″—the same size as your everyday sleeping pillow. These are usually displayed in pairs and are ideal for full and queen beds. Place them in front of your sleeping pillows or layer behind decorative cushions for added depth.
King Sham
Designed for pillows that are 20″ x 36″, king shams offer full coverage across wider bed frames. They work best on king or California king beds, and they give a clean, expansive feel to the bed’s headspace.
Euro Sham
Euro shams are square-shaped at 26″ x 26″ and are often the backdrop in pillow arrangements. Their size makes them ideal for providing height and structure. You’ll commonly see them resting against the headboard, offering a luxe, layered look. Learn how to integrate Euro shams in our bed pillow styling guide.
Boudoir Sham
Boudoir shams are smaller at around 12″ x 16″. They’re strictly decorative and often the final touch in a layered arrangement. Picture a petite accent pillow with rich embroidery or tassels, sitting front and center like the bow on a wrapped present.
Together, these options let you mix and match to suit your bed size and design taste.
How to Use Shams
Integrating shams into your bedding routine is both an art and a science. Here’s how to do it with flair:
- Layering: Begin with Euro shams at the very back (against the headboard), followed by king or standard shams, then your sleeping pillows. For added elegance, place boudoir shams or lumbar pillows in front.
- Color Coordination: Choose a palette that complements your duvet or quilt. Neutral bedding with brightly colored shams adds a playful pop. Or try tonal layering—light and dark versions of the same hue—for a subtle gradient effect.
- Texture Play: Use a mix of materials like velvet, linen, and embroidered cotton to add dimension. A matte linen sham next to a shiny silk cushion creates a tactile contrast that feels curated.
- Seasonal Switch: Rotate shams with the seasons. Cool, breathable linen or cotton for summer; heavier fabrics like velvet or flannel for the colder months.
Need more inspiration? Don’t miss our full guide on how to layer your bed like a designer.
By layering thoughtfully, you can achieve that lush, luxurious bed setup worthy of any high-end hotel.
Myth Buster: Are Shams Just for Show?
While shams are primarily decorative, they do offer functional benefits beyond aesthetics. Need extra back support while binge-watching or reading in bed? Prop up a couple of Euro shams. Hosting guests? Shams make a spare bed feel inviting and complete.
However, most shams aren’t built for sleep. Decorative details like beading, embroidery, or buttons can make them uncomfortable against your skin. Use them during the day, and move them aside at night—just like you would decorative throws or quilts.
So, no—they’re not *just* for show. But they do their best work when not used as your primary sleeping pillows.
Where to Find the Best Shams
Shopping for shams can be fun and easy when you know where to look. For timeless, elegant choices, explore the Pottery Barn sham collection. Their curated sets offer coordinated color schemes and luxe materials perfect for upgrading your bedroom look.
On a budget? Target’s sham selection includes trendy designs at wallet-friendly prices, making it easy to switch up your style by season or mood.
For eco-conscious shoppers, look for brands that offer organic cotton or recycled fabrics. And for custom touches, consider browsing Etsy shops that offer handmade or monogrammed options.
Wherever you shop, choose quality over quantity—two to three well-made shams can have more impact than a dozen mismatched pillows.
Internal Pro Tips
Want to dive deeper into styling strategies? Our guide on how to layer your bed like a designer breaks down everything from pillow counts to texture pairings. You’ll learn how to turn your bed into the showpiece of your room.
If you struggle with nighttime overheating, check out our curated list of the best bedding for hot sleepers. Pairing breathable sheets with decorative but functional shams can give you the best of both worlds—cool comfort and style.
These resources are a great way to elevate your bedroom setup, whether you’re starting fresh or refining an already beautiful space.
Adding shams to your bedding is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to level up your bedroom’s look. With a little creativity and coordination, these decorative covers can create a polished, comfortable space that feels both relaxing and put-together. Whether you go bold, neutral, or textural, shams let your personality shine through every layer.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of a sham in bedding?
- Shams serve a decorative purpose, improving your bed’s visual appeal and offering light protection for sleeping pillows. They’re designed to be seen and styled as part of your bed’s overall look.
- Can you sleep on a sham?
- Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Most shams aren’t designed for comfort due to decorative features like embroidery or buttons that may irritate your skin.
- How do you clean pillow shams?
- Follow care instructions on the label. Many shams are machine washable, but some—especially those with intricate embellishments—may need hand washing or dry cleaning.
More Expert Insights
A decorative pillow cover, often referred to simply as a “sham,” adds charm and sophistication to your bedding setup. Unlike regular pillowcases, these covers feature stylish design elements such as flanges, trims, or embroidered details, and they typically open at the back.
Contemporary beds lean into minimalism. Think monochrome palettes, streamlined headboards, and natural textures. This setting improves the visual impact of your decorative pillow cover by providing contrast and sophistication.
From Scandinavian simplicity to mid-century flair, decorative pillow covers effortlessly align with today’s trending styles.
Standard shams fit standard pillows (20″x26″), while Euro shams are designed for Euro pillows (26″x26″). Always check the label before buying.
Whether you favor classic, modern, or eclectic styles, sham bedding offers a simple yet striking way to personalize and elevate your bed’s appearance.
To build an inviting space, think beyond color matching and experiment with material contrasts. Combine crisp cotton sheets with a velvet sham, or pair a linen duvet cover with satin-edged pillow shams for an upscale, boutique-hotel feel. This layering technique isn’t just about looks — it also offers seasonal flexibility. Add or remove layers depending on the climate, making your bed not only stylish but also highly functional throughout the year.
The edging of a sham is more than a finishing detail — it’s a design element. Popular styles include:
One clever tip: use symmetrical arrangements if you prefer a balanced and calming look, or try asymmetrical pillow placement for a more modern, editorial feel. You can even rotate your shams seasonally — heavier textures like faux fur in winter and breezy linen in summer help keep your decor fresh and functional.
Still curious? Dive into Tuft & Needle’s guide to bed shams for another perspective.
Your bedroom should feel like a cozy retreat, not a confusing mess of bedding terms. Understanding what is a sham helps you style your bed like a pro without overspending or overcrowding. If you deal with allergies or value a tidy sleep space, a proper pillow layout can improve both aesthetics and well-being. Dive deeper with our guide on bedding materials and their benefits. For health tips on allergy-proofing your bedroom, visit Sleep Foundation.
Euro shams add a plush, luxurious look. Their larger square shape helps anchor the bed visually. Interior designers often use euro shams to add balance, especially when using headboards or bold wall art.
Want to avoid pillow overload? Here’s a layout that keeps things stylish and simple:
Experiment with textures and patterns. Try mixing velvet euro shams with cotton standards for a high-low look. Or coordinate shams with wall colors or area rugs for a well-rounded design. For additional ideas on affordable and effective bedroom upgrades, see WebMD’s sleep environment guide. For more on bedtime habits and emotional wellness, don’t miss our post on the psychology of bedtime.
If you’re navigating sleep challenges like insomnia or snoring, consider reading our guide to sleep disorders and their effects—because comfort starts with understanding your sleep health.
