Imagine that masterpieces of layered, textured, colorful pillows are covering your bed after a long, hard day.
It’s not just a lumpy place to sleep. It’s a work of art and a haven. How did you get there, you ask? The answer is pillow shams that make a statement.
Pillow shams can make your space come alive by adding depth, personality, and warmth. Whether you lean toward bold designs or pastel hues, understanding how to mix and match pillow shams can change the way you approach your bedroom decor.
The Power of Contrast
Layering patterns and colors can be nerve-racking, but mixed patterns and colors are why we stare at a beautifully composed bed; it’s visually interesting. We get dressed every day and put thought into what we wear because we love looking well put-together. The way your bed combines patterns and colors shouldn’t be any different.
Patterns and textures can be mixed in an approachable way without being feared. The key? Contrast. The more contrast you have, the more interesting your bed will be. Just remember that your pillow shams are the focal point and your comforter or duvet is the middle child, which is why they should always be grounded and minimal. Then, the rest can be mixed and matched somewhere in between.
To get started, choose a solid foundation – crisp white bedding or a solid neutral – on which you can place fun, bright pillow shams. Stripes and florals? Sounds wonderful. Geometric and linen? Great, too. Think of juxtapositions and how you can surprise people and, more importantly, impress yourself.
Color Coordination Made Easy
If you’re unsure about mixing colors, try the 60-30-10 rule. Choose:
- 60% as your dominant color (like your duvet or sheets)
- 30% as your secondary shade (accent pillows, throws)
- 10% as your bold pop (statement pillow shams)
For the ultimate coastal inspiration, Serena & Lily has you covered in shades of ocean blue, sandy beige, and sea salt. Trying to have more fun? Combine pillow shams in jewel tones for a rich, varied finish.
Texture: The Secret Ingredient
Your bed is as much about feel as it is about looks, and combining textures brings it to life. It allows the product to feel purposely and elegantly executed as opposed to the “I just threw that together” look, even though that works sometimes. Here are great examples:
- Crisp cotton paired with soft velvet
- Chunky knits next to smooth sateen
- Woven linen combined with plush faux fur
Layering textures creates a more luxurious, luscious feel to the bed, as if you’ve had those linens forever, surrounding you with the feeling of a loving, stylish embrace.
Patterns that Work Together
The trick to mixing patterns without overwhelming your space? Balance.
- Shake it up a bit. Counterbalance a bold print with something simple. If you love a floral pillow, pair it with a neutral or high-contrast stripe.
- Stay in the family. Feel free to layer more than one piece using a similar color. It can create a rich and lush look.
- Just want one floral pillow? Great, but make all other elements be in the same color family. It will look completely intentional and flawless.
Layering Like a Pro
Pillows aren’t meant to be plopped. They’re meant to be placed with care: the largest in the back (usually the sleeping pillows), a smaller, beautifully woven pillow sham, and a decorative throw pillow to bring it full circle.
A foolproof formula?
- Two large euro pillows in a neutral shade
- Two standard-sized pillow shams with color or pattern
- One or two decorative pillows for the finishing touch
Your Bed, Your Style
At the end of the day, your space should be an expression of who you are. Whether your vibe is soft and easy or vibrant and bold, enjoy playing with your pillow shams until you find the perfect mix. A well-made bed is about more than just good looks. So mix and match. Get creative. Your dream bed awaits, and it’s just a few pillow shams away!