Ever looked at a beautifully made bed in a magazine and wondered how they get it looking so plush and perfect? While a luxurious duvet and crisp sheets are essential, often the secret lies in the strategic use of decorative pillow coverings called shams. More than just pillowcases, shams elevate the entire aesthetic of your bedding, adding texture, color, and a touch of elegance. But with so many styles, sizes, and purposes, understanding shams can feel overwhelming.
Knowing the purpose and different types of shams can dramatically improve your bedroom's look and feel. They are an inexpensive way to add a unique personal style without buying a whole new bed set. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist haven or a richly layered retreat, choosing the right shams is key to achieving that polished, inviting bedroom look. They provide comfort and enhance the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bed Shams
What exactly are bed shams and what is their purpose?
Bed shams are decorative pillow coverings designed to coordinate with a comforter, duvet cover, or other bedding ensemble. Their primary purpose is to enhance the visual appeal of the bed, adding a touch of elegance and completing the overall aesthetic of the bedroom decor. Unlike pillowcases, which are functional and designed for sleeping, shams are primarily ornamental.
Shams typically feature flanges (a flat, decorative border) and often have closures on the back, such as zippers or overlapping fabric, to conceal the pillow entirely. This clean, finished look distinguishes them from regular pillowcases and contributes to their decorative nature. They come in various sizes and styles, matching the specific bedding sets they accompany, from standard shams for twin and full beds to king shams for larger beds. The term "sham" implies a decorative front, distinct from the pillow within. By using shams, you can instantly transform the look of your bed and create a more polished and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom. They allow for easy customization and seasonal updates, as changing the shams is a quick and relatively inexpensive way to refresh your bedroom's decor. While they are generally not intended for nightly sleeping, they can be removed before bed to avoid getting wrinkled or soiled.What's the difference between a sham and a pillowcase?
The primary difference between a sham and a pillowcase is their purpose: a pillowcase is designed for sleeping on, prioritizing comfort and hygiene, while a sham is primarily decorative, intended to enhance the aesthetic appearance of your bed and bedroom.
While both shams and pillowcases are fabric coverings for pillows, their construction and intended use vary significantly. Pillowcases typically have a simple opening on one end or along the side, allowing for easy insertion and removal of the pillow. They are made from soft, washable materials like cotton, linen, or silk to ensure a comfortable sleeping surface. Shams, on the other hand, often have more elaborate closures, such as zippers, envelope closures, or ties, located on the back. This allows for a neater, more tailored look when the pillow is displayed on the bed. Furthermore, shams are often made from materials that are more decorative than practical for sleeping, such as textured fabrics, embellished materials, or those with intricate patterns or embroidery. They are designed to coordinate with the bedding ensemble, acting as an accent piece. Think of shams as the throw pillows of the pillow world – they add visual interest and complete the overall design of the bed, while pillowcases are purely functional necessities. Typically, people remove shams from the bed before sleeping to avoid damage, and for hygienic reasons, as they may not be laundered as frequently as pillowcases.Are shams meant to be slept on?
Generally, no, shams are not meant to be slept on. They are primarily decorative pillow coverings used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed and are typically removed before sleeping.
Shams serve a different purpose than standard pillowcases. While pillowcases are designed for hygiene and comfort during sleep, shams are all about style. They are usually made from heavier, more durable fabrics and often feature embellishments like flanges, embroidery, or intricate patterns. Sleeping directly on a sham might damage the delicate fabric or detailing, and the coarser materials might not be as comfortable against your skin as a soft pillowcase. The visual arrangement on a bed often includes standard pillows covered in pillowcases for sleeping, placed flat against the headboard, and then shams are leaned against them or arranged in front. This layered look adds depth and visual interest to the bedding ensemble. Shams come in various sizes (standard, queen, king, Euro) to coordinate with different bed sizes and pillow arrangements. Essentially, think of shams as the finishing touch – the decorative element that completes the look of your perfectly made bed. So, when it's time to tuck in for the night, take those beautiful shams off and swap them for your cozy pillowcases.What sizes do bed shams typically come in?
Bed shams are generally sized to coordinate with standard mattress sizes, mirroring the dimensions of pillowcases but with extra fabric to create a decorative border or flange. Common sizes include Standard, Queen, King, and Euro.
Bed shams serve primarily as decorative pillow covers designed to enhance the overall aesthetic of a bed ensemble. Unlike pillowcases, which are intended for sleeping on, shams are meant for display and are often removed before bedtime. The flange, or decorative border, adds visual interest and a touch of elegance to the bed. The Standard sham size is typically around 20 x 26 inches (excluding the flange), fitting standard-sized pillows. Queen shams usually measure 20 x 30 inches, while King shams are larger, at approximately 20 x 36 inches. Euro shams are square, generally measuring 26 x 26 inches, providing a different shape and dimension for layering on the bed. These sizes allow for a coordinated and visually appealing arrangement when combined with other bedding elements like comforters, duvets, and throw pillows.What fabrics are commonly used to make shams?
A wide variety of fabrics are used to make shams, often mirroring the materials used for the coordinating bedding. Common choices include cotton, linen, silk, velvet, and various synthetic blends like polyester and microfiber.
While cotton is prized for its breathability, durability, and ease of care, linen offers a relaxed, luxurious feel and becomes softer with each wash. Silk shams provide a smooth, elegant look, but they are more delicate and require special care. Velvet shams add a touch of opulence and texture to the bed, while synthetic blends like polyester and microfiber are often chosen for their affordability, wrinkle resistance, and durability. The choice of fabric ultimately depends on the desired aesthetic, level of comfort, and budget. The specific weave and finish of the fabric also contribute to the look and feel of the sham. For example, cotton shams can be made from percale, sateen, or flannel, each offering a different texture and drape. Similarly, linen shams can range from lightweight and airy to heavier and more textured. Embellishments like embroidery, quilting, and ruffles can also be added to enhance the visual appeal of the sham, regardless of the underlying fabric.How do I choose shams that match my bedding?
To choose shams that match your bedding, consider coordinating color, pattern, and style. Opt for shams in a complementary color from your bedding set, introduce a subtle pattern that echoes the bedding's design, or select shams with a similar texture or fabric for a cohesive look. Your goal is to create visual harmony and complement the overall aesthetic of your bed.
Choosing the right shams involves a few key considerations beyond simply liking the way they look. First, assess the existing colors and patterns in your bedding. If your duvet cover or comforter features a bold pattern, consider solid-colored shams that pull out one of the accent colors. Conversely, if your bedding is mostly neutral, shams offer an excellent opportunity to introduce a subtle pattern or texture, like quilting or embroidery, for added visual interest. Think about the overall style of your bedroom as well – modern, traditional, bohemian, etc. – and select shams that align with that aesthetic.
Beyond color and pattern, think about the type of sham you want. Standard shams, Euro shams (square), and boudoir shams (small and rectangular) all contribute differently to the overall bed presentation. Using different sizes and types of shams adds depth and layering to your bed. Finally, consider the maintenance. Choose shams made from fabrics that are easy to care for and that complement the materials in your bedding to ensure they age gracefully together and maintain a consistent look over time.
How do I clean and care for my bed shams?
Cleaning and caring for your bed shams is similar to caring for your other bedding. Always check the care label for specific instructions, but generally, you'll want to machine wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low or hang to dry to prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric's integrity. Iron as needed, following the fabric's heat tolerance.
Different materials require slightly different approaches. For example, delicate shams made of silk or linen may benefit from hand washing or a delicate cycle with a specialized detergent. Embroidered or embellished shams should be turned inside out before washing to protect the details. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can damage the fabric and fade the colors. To extend the life of your bed shams, consider using pillow protectors underneath them to shield them from body oils and sweat. Regularly fluff them to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming flat. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Proper cleaning and care will ensure your shams remain beautiful and comfortable for years to come, enhancing the overall look of your bedroom.So, there you have it! Hopefully, this has cleared up any confusion about shams and how they can add that extra touch of style and comfort to your bed. Thanks for stopping by, and we hope you'll come back again soon for more tips and tricks to create your perfect cozy space!