Unveiling Shams

What Are They &
How To Use Them

Unveiling
Shams

What Are They &
How To Use Them

Unveiling
Shams

What Are They &
How To Use Them

Unveiling
Shams

What Are They &
How To Use Them

Unveiling
Shams

What Are
They & How
To Use Them

If you've ever strolled through the home decor section of a store or browsed online bedding collections, you might have come across the term "sham." However, the question lingers for many: What exactly is a sham?

We’ll demystify the world of shams, exploring what they are, their purpose, and how to incorporate them into your bedding ensemble for an effortlessly elegant look.
Bedroom with upholstered white bedframe and white comforter and wooden nightstand

What Are Shams?

What Are Shams?

What Are Shams?

Simply put, a sham is a decorative covering for a pillow, it provides the pillow with a “false front.” Sometimes referred to as a pillowslip, think of it as a stylish pillowcase that adds a touch of sophistication to your bed.

Unlike regular pillowcases used for sleeping, pillow shams are designed primarily for decorative purposes. They come in various sizes to match your bedding needs, such as standard, king, and Euro shams, each with unique dimensions.
Bedroom with upholstered white bedframe and white comforter and wooden nightstand

The Purpose of Shams

The Purpose of Shams

The Purpose of Shams

Enhanced Aesthetics

The primary function of a pillow slip is to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your bed. They act as a finishing touch, adding texture, color, and pattern to your bedding ensemble.
Closeup image of grey comforter and pillows stacked vertically
Bed with upholstered bedframe and white patterned comforter and pillows

Layered Look

Shams contribute to creating a layered and luxurious look for your bed. They add depth and dimension, making your bed look well-coordinated and inviting.

Protection

While shams aren't designed for direct sleeping, they do provide an additional layer of protection for the pillows underneath. This can be particularly useful for keeping your pillows clean and extending their lifespan.
Closeup image of off-white linen bedding

How to Use Shams

How to Use Shams

How to Use Shams

Closeup image of grey plush pillow shams on top of bed

Placement

Pillowslips are typically placed at the head of the bed, propped up against the headboard or wall. They can be layered in front of sleeping pillows to create an attractive backdrop.

Arrangement

Layer them from largest to smallest. For instance, place Euro shams at the back, followed by standard or king, and finally, sleeping pillows.
Bedroom with bed with grey upholstered bedframe and navy velvet comforter and a wooden nightstand on the side
Closeup image of grey fabric bedding

Mix & Match

Get creative with patterns, colors, and textures. Mix and match to complement your duvet cover or quilt, adding visual interest to your bedding.

Styling

Experiment with arranging them upright, angling them, or slightly overlapping to achieve your desired look. Fluff and adjust them regularly for a polished appearance.
Bed with black bedframe and white textured bedding and matching pillow shams
Closeup image of two grey textured pillow shams

Elevate Your Bedroom Décor

Elevate Your Bedroom Décor

Elevate Your Bedroom Décor

Shams play a pivotal role in transforming your bedroom from ordinary to extraordinary. They're not just pillow coverings; they're a form of artistic expression that can mirror your style and personality.

By choosing the right ones and arranging them thoughtfully, you can create a luxurious and inviting bedroom that showcases your unique taste. They add layers, textures, and colors that tie your bedding ensemble together, adding to the aesthetic appeal.

While they aren't intended for sleeping, they offer protection to the pillows beneath and contribute to an effortlessly chic bedroom aesthetic.

So, the next time you wonder, "what is sham bedding?", you'll be well-equipped to embrace these decorative accents and create a bed that's not only cozy but also visually stunning.