A nicely styled bed can make your bedroom feel like a luxurious spa, but one of the sneakiest ways to cozy up your bed may just be by that workhorse of bedding, the sham. They’re not just fancy pillowcases; shams add color, shape, and color to your bed and make the whole thing look more “done” and more inviting.
If you’re looking to elevate your space and create a peaceful, vacation-like retreat, it’s just one more tool to help you create a space you love. And with retailers like Serena and Lily selling a wide range of fabulous options, it’s easier than ever to get them right where you want them. So, how do you get the most out of those shams?
What Are Shams, and Why Do They Matter?
What are shams on a bed? Shams are decorative pillow covers that can sometimes provide a bit of extra comfort while sitting up in bed. They are different than pillowcases because of the fabric and design of the sham itself.
When used correctly, shams add a lot of visual interest and depth to a bed. They can make your bed look cozy and styled when you layer different types of shams and fabric.
Start with a Neutral Base
When dressing your bed, we suggest starting with neutral bedding on the duvet or quilt. Neutral bedding makes it easy to use stately or colorful shams as a decor element.
Say you go for some white bedding aka sheets and duvet as your base, the clear white bedding provides a backdrop that highlights the bold, graphic pillows. Great for older and modern interior spaces because the shams are so eye-catching.
Play with Patterns and Textures
Shams are a great way to play with pattern and texture in your bedding. They allow you to introduce a pop of color or an interesting design without committing an entire set of patterned sheets and pillowcases.
Spice up your room by pairing some patterned shams with solid-colored bedding. Timeless and classic materials or textures such as linen and velvet compliment subtle, classic patterns like stripes and florals, whereas a pop of color can be added to more daring geometrical patterns with deep, rich colors of solid shams.
Layer for Depth and Dimension
Layering is the best way to get a bed to look and feel like you can’t wait to dive in. Once you have your sleeping pillows in place, you can arrange your shams for decorative purposes.
For a queen-sized bed, we recommend two or three shams. For a king bed, you can even do four. You can stack them in a straight line or overlap them in front of your sleeping pillows for structure. If you prefer a more nonchalant look, you can have them lean casually on one another.
Including euro shams in your pillow mix will also make your bed look more luxe and balanced. On a bigger bed, they help to make the whole thing look more grand and put-together.
Match Your Room’s Palette
Shams should accent your bedroom’s whole color story, creating a cohesive, visual whole. If you like a quieter backdrop, keep your shams in the same vein with a soft, supporting palette. Blush, sage, and grey all work wonderfully when things are kept subdued.
Love to go a little brighter? Look for shams that call back to the other colors you’re using around the room. For instance, navy shams paired up with gold or mustard will fit right in. Perfectly knitting the whole room together. Serena & Lily has you covered (literally) with several shades and prints to choose from.
Don’t Forget Seasonal Swaps
One of the simple pleasures of decorating with shams is how they can be changed for each season. In summer, choose light, breezy fabrics like cotton or linen in fun, vibrant hues.
In cooler months, replace those with heavier materials such as velvet or wool in warm, cozy colors: jewel tones, earthy reds, forest greens, and soft creams. It instantly refreshes your sleep space and makes it a touch more seasonally appropriate.
Caring for Your Shams
Taking proper care of your shams will help to ensure that you keep them looking great and lasting a long time. Some may be machine-washable. Read the care label on those that you bring home to ensure that you know how to maintain the fabric.
If the fabric is more delicate (velvet or silk), then dry cleaning is a useful way to prevent damage. Regular fluffing is needed to ensure that the shams do not become permanently misshapen and flat, and frequent rotation provides for a fresh and full appearance.
Shams For a Gorgeous Bedroom
Shams are anything but ordinary decorative throw pillows and are a versatile way to add depth, sophistication, and — possibly even — luxury to your bed. In playing with texture, color, and layers, you can find a design that is at once current, interesting, and totally you, all while being anchored by a key focus of comfort and livability. With such beautifully made options available from Serena & Lily, it’s easier than ever to complete your room with the sham(s) of your fantasies.
