Decorative Pillow Covers

A decorative pillow cover is more than just an accessory—it’s a quick and elegant way to elevate your bedroom style with ease.

Key Takeaways

• Decorative pillow covers enhance bed aesthetics and offer a polished, designer look
• They differ from regular pillowcases in purpose and construction
• Modern bed designs pair beautifully with decorative pillow covers
• Proper care ensures longevity and fresh appearance

What is a Sham Comforter?

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.

Definition and Purpose

The primary purpose of a decorative pillow cover is decoration. They are designed to coordinate with comforters, throws, and duvets to give your bed a cohesive, luxurious look. They’re not typically meant for sleeping use, which helps preserve their aesthetic longer.

Sham Comforter vs. Pillowcase

While both cover pillows, a decorative pillow cover and a pillowcase serve different functions. Pillowcases prioritise comfort and hygiene for nightly use. Decorative covers, on the other hand, focus on visual appeal and bedroom ambiance. They open in the back, often with hidden zippers or envelope closures, making them ideal for display pillows.

How to Use a Sham Comforter

To use a decorative pillow cover, insert a standard or Euro-size pillow through its back opening, fluff it, and place it atop your bedspread or quilt. For visual balance, align these pillows against the headboard and layer with smaller accent pillows.

Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Washing: Launder every few weeks or as needed, following care instructions on the label.
2. Proper Storage: Store in a clean, dry space to avoid mildew or odors.
3. Fabric Care: For delicate embellishments, hand wash or use a gentle cycle and air dry flat.

Modern Bed Designs

Modern bed designs offer a sleek backdrop to showcase your decorative pillow covers. With clean lines and functional design, these beds help emphasise your bedding choices.

Contemporary Elegance

Contemporary beds lean into minimalism. Think monochrome palettes, streamlined headboards, and natural textures. This setting enhances the visual impact of your decorative pillow cover by providing contrast and sophistication.

Popular Modern Bed Designs

• Platform Beds: Minimalist and low-profile, often featuring storage drawers below.
• Canopy Beds: Updated with slim metal or wood frames, perfect for showcasing airy bedding styles.
• Storage Beds: Designed with built-in compartments, combining function and form for smaller rooms.

Design Tips for Modern Beds

1. Choose Neutral Colors: Use soft whites, beiges, and charcoals to create a calming base.
2. Incorporate Natural Materials: Woods and metals introduce warmth and contrast with soft textiles like sham comforters.
3. Minimalist Decor: Keep clutter minimal; let your textiles—like the sham comforter—be the visual hero.

Modern Bed Styles

A decorative pillow cover complements various modern bed styles, bringing personality and texture to your sleep sanctuary.

Sleek and Stylish

From Scandinavian simplicity to mid-century flair, decorative pillow covers effortlessly align with today’s trending styles.

Types of Modern Bed Styles

• Scandinavian Style: Emphasises bright spaces, natural wood, and minimal decor. Decorative pillow covers with subtle patterns fit perfectly.
• Industrial Style: Think exposed metal frames and reclaimed wood. Use textured sham comforters for softness and contrast.
• Mid-Century Modern: With tapered legs and bold shapes, pair with geometric or vintage-style decorative covers for a retro touch.

Styling Your Modern Bed

1. Layer Your Bedding: Mix textures—linen shams, quilted covers, and chunky throws—for depth.
2. Add Accent Pillows: Vary pillow sizes and covers for dynamic dimension.
3. Incorporate Art: Anchor your bed’s style with wall art that complements your sham comforter’s palette.

Fun Facts and Tips

• The term “sham” originally referred to a “false front”—a perfect metaphor for these decorative covers.
• Swapping out shams seasonally is a simple, low-cost way to refresh your bedroom vibe.
• Use a single bold-colored sham on an otherwise neutral bed for a chic focal point.

FAQ

Learn more in how to elevate your bed with textures, our guide to bedding types, and cozy modern bedroom styling tips.

External Resources

• Types of Pillows – Sleep Foundation
• Make the Perfect Bed – Architectural Digest
• Healthy Bedroom Tips – EPA

Whether you’re redecorating or starting fresh, a decorative pillow cover brings flair and finish to your bed. Its elegant simplicity makes it a favourite in modern bedroom designs.

Learn more about the Sham Comforter in our other articles.