How to Buy Pillow Shams for a Polished Bedroom Look

Pillow shams are the finishing touch that transforms a bed from simply functional to beautifully styled. Unlike standard sleeping pillows, shams are designed with decorative details like flanges, cording, or embroidery, and they sit proudly in front of your sleeping pillows to create a layered, hotel-inspired look. Whether you're redecorating your master suite or refreshing a guest room, understanding how to buy and style pillow shams can make all the difference.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about pillow shams: from size and fabric choices to color coordination and layering techniques. By the end, you'll be ready to choose the perfect shams to complete your polished bedroom ensemble.

What Are Pillow Shams and How Are They Different from Pillowcases?

Pillow shams are decorative covers designed to match your duvet cover or comforter, typically featuring a flanged edge, a border, or other ornamental details. Unlike standard pillowcases, which are meant for sleeping and often have a simple hem, shams are intended to be displayed during the day and removed at night. They usually have an envelope closure on the back rather than a traditional open end, which gives them a cleaner, more tailored appearance.

The key difference lies in purpose: pillowcases prioritize comfort and easy removal for washing, while shams prioritize aesthetics. Shams are often made from the same fabric as your duvet cover, creating a cohesive, coordinated look. For example, pairing a Sage Green 100% Linen Duvet Cover with matching linen shams instantly elevates the bed's visual appeal. Many homeowners use shams to introduce pattern, texture, or a pop of color without overwhelming the room.

• Shams are decorative; pillowcases are for sleeping.
• Shams typically have a flanged edge or border; pillowcases have a simple hem.
• Shams match the duvet cover; pillowcases often come in sets with fitted and flat sheets.
• Shams are removed at night; pillowcases stay on pillows used for sleep.

Choosing the Right Size Pillow Sham

Pillow shams come in standard sizes that correspond to your bed size: standard (20 x 26 inches) for twin and full beds, queen (20 x 30 inches) for queen beds, and king (20 x 36 inches) for king beds. However, many people prefer to use a pair of standard shams on a queen or king bed for a classic, symmetrical look. If you want a more modern, oversized aesthetic, consider using king shams even on a queen bed for a plush, luxurious feel.

When buying shams, always measure your existing pillows or the pillows you plan to insert. Keep in mind that shams are often slightly larger than the pillow form to allow for the decorative flange. If you're layering multiple shams, consider using different sizes: for instance, a large king sham in the back and a standard sham in the front. This creates depth and dimension, making your bed look professionally styled.

• Standard sham: 20 x 26 inches – best for twin/full beds or as front layers.
• Queen sham: 20 x 30 inches – ideal for queen beds.
• King sham: 20 x 36 inches – perfect for king beds or as back layers on queen beds.
• Always check the flange width (typically 1.5 to 3 inches) when measuring.

Selecting the Best Fabric for Your Pillow Shams

The fabric of your pillow shams affects both the look and feel of your bedding. Cotton shams are breathable, easy to care for, and come in a wide range of weaves like percale (crisp and cool) and sateen (silky and smooth). They're a great all-around choice for any season. Linen shams offer a relaxed, textured elegance that gets softer with each wash, making them ideal for a casual yet sophisticated bedroom style.

For a truly cohesive look, choose shams made from the same fabric and color as your duvet cover. For instance, the Elderberry Pembroke Stripe Linen Blend Duvet Set pairs beautifully with matching linen shams, creating a seamless, designer-inspired ensemble. Linen blends combine the breathability of linen with the wrinkle resistance of cotton, offering the best of both worlds. If you prefer a crisp, tailored look, opt for cotton shams with a sateen finish.

• Cotton: breathable, easy-care, available in percale or sateen weaves.
• Linen: textured, relaxed, softens over time, ideal for warm climates.
• Linen blends: wrinkle-resistant yet breathable, great for year-round use.
• Consider the season: cotton for summer, flannel or velvet for winter.

How to Match Pillow Shams with Your Bedding Colors and Patterns

Color coordination is key to a polished bedroom look. Start by choosing a neutral base for your duvet cover and sheets, then use shams to introduce accent colors or patterns. For a serene, monochromatic scheme, select shams in a shade slightly lighter or darker than your duvet. If you love pattern, consider a striped or floral sham that picks up a color from your duvet cover or throw pillows.

For example, if your duvet is a solid sage green, you could add shams in a complementary hue like blush or cream, or choose a patterned sham that includes green accents. The Pear Meadow Floral Cotton Pillowcases (Pair) could inspire a floral sham pattern that brings a touch of nature indoors. Alternatively, for a bold, modern look, use contrasting colors: pair a neutral duvet with vibrant shams in mustard or navy. Remember, shams are meant to be layered, so don't be afraid to mix two or three different patterns as long as they share a common color thread.

• Use the color wheel: complementary colors (e.g., blue and orange) create contrast.
• Stick to 2-3 colors in your bedding palette for a cohesive look.
• Pattern mixing: pair stripes with florals or geometrics for visual interest.
• Neutral shams are versatile and can be swapped seasonally with ease.

Layering Techniques for a Designer Bed

Layering is the secret to a bed that looks straight out of a magazine. Start with your fitted sheet and flat sheet, then add your duvet or comforter. Next, place your sleeping pillows in their pillowcases at the head of the bed. In front of those, arrange your pillow shams. For a classic look, use two shams side by side. For a more luxurious feel, add a third sham in the center or use a larger king sham behind two standard shams.

You can also layer shams with decorative throw pillows or cushion covers. Place a rectangular lumbar pillow in front of the shams, or add a small square cushion for extra texture. The key is to create depth without overcrowding. If your duvet has a bold pattern, keep shams solid or subtly textured. Conversely, if your duvet is solid, shams can carry the pattern. The Honey Gingham Linen Blend Sheet Set offers a charming gingham pattern that can be echoed in shams for a cohesive, farmhouse-inspired look.

• Start with sleeping pillows, then add shams in front.
• Use odd numbers (1 or 3) for a more dynamic arrangement.
• Mix sizes: king shams in back, standard in front.
• Add a lumbar or square throw pillow for the final layer.

Caring for Your Pillow Shams

To keep your pillow shams looking their best, always check the care label. Most cotton and linen shams are machine washable in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid using bleach, which can weaken fibers and fade colors. Tumble dry on low heat and remove while slightly damp to reduce wrinkles. For linen shams, you can iron them while still damp for a crisp finish, or embrace the natural wrinkles for a relaxed look.

Shams often have decorative trims or embroidery that require extra care. Turn shams inside out before washing to protect these details. If your shams have a flange, gently reshape it while damp to maintain its structure. Regular washing every two to four weeks will keep dust mites and allergens at bay. For shams that are purely decorative and rarely used, spot cleaning may suffice. Investing in quality shams like those made from linen or cotton ensures they will last for years with proper care.

• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; avoid bleach.
• Tumble dry low; remove while damp to reduce wrinkles.
• Iron linen shams while damp for a crisp finish.
• Turn shams inside out to protect embroidery or trims.

Pillow shams are a simple yet impactful way to elevate your bedroom's style. By choosing the right size, fabric, and color, and mastering a few layering techniques, you can create a polished, inviting bed that feels like a luxury hotel retreat. Explore our collection of premium pillow shams and duvet sets to find the perfect match for your bedroom decor. Start with the Elderberry Pembroke Stripe Linen Blend Duvet Set for a timeless, coordinated look that will transform your space.