Want to add a touch of luxury and polish to your bedroom? Well, pillowshams are the perfect finishing touch. Stylish yet practical, they’re a small detail that can make a big difference to your space. But what exactly is a pillowsham, and how is it different from a regular pillowcase? Let’s break it down and help you style your sleep sanctuary like a pro.
What are pillowshams?
A pillowsham is essentially a decorative cover for your pillows. At first glance, a pillowsham might look like a pillowcase, and indeed both are casings for your pillows, but there’s more to it than that. Unlike standard pillowcases, which are made for sleeping on, pillowshams are for styling, not snoozing. Pillowshams are designed to dress your bed, add layers of texture and colour and elevate the overall space.
A pillowcase is designed to be practical and protective, and is often plain or minimal, made from smooth fabrics suitable for sleeping on. On the other hand, a pillowsham will often have a decorative border or extra detailing like embroidery or quilting, that you wouldn’t want to lay your head on to sleep but that looks absolutely fabulous. They’re used during the day to style the bed and are typically removed before bedtime (though you can absolutely sleep on them if you like – there’s no rule against it). They are also great for added support when reading in bed, making them practical and stylish!
How to style your bed with pillowshams
Whether you’re after a cosy, layered look or a crisp, hotel-inspired finish, pillowshams can help you achieve it. They’re a simple way to upgrade your bedroom with very little effort. Whether you go for soft and soothing or bold and dramatic, they allow you to change the look and feel of your room quickly and affordably. Here are the things you need to consider to get the best effect.
Choosing the right size pillowshams
Size-wise, your pillowshams should match the pillows they cover, and there are two sizes that are most commonly used. These are Standard pillowshams which are 50x70cm and fit regular-sized pillows, and larger square shams that measure 63x63cm and fit European-sized pillows. These are often called Continental pillowshams. Finally, you can sometimes find smaller square pillowshams, which are more akin to cushion covers, measuring 43x43cm. Whichever size you go for, make sure they’re filled well with a properly fitting pillow for a plump, structured look.
Start by placing your everyday sleeping pillows at the head of the bed, then layer your pillowshams in front. If you have two standard shams, stack or prop them up depending on your headboard height. For a more luxurious vibe, add Continental shams behind your regular pillows – they provide height and give your bed a beautifully structured, premium look.
Choosing the right texture and colour pillowshams
When picking pillowshams, colour and proportion are key. Think about your existing bedding, wall colour and room décor, as well as what you want to achieve with your styling. Want to create a calm, serene retreat? Opt for soft, muted tones like mink, sage green or cornflower blue pillowshams. If you’re after something bolder, go for contrast – ochre, plum or terracotta against white sheets can look striking without overwhelming the space.
And don’t be afraid of pattern or texture. Go for a pretty ditsy print or a gorgeous patchwork design for a country cottage-core vibe. If you prefer to keep things simpler, a textured stonewash cotton pillowsham will add depth and interest, and pair beautifully with crisp white bedding.
Why not try…
Don't forget we’re happy to send fabric samples if you’re unsure about colours. Why not match your pillowshams to your bedspread, curtains, wall colour or rug?
Why not try...