Pillows, Quilts, and Throws – How to Style Your Bed Like A Pro!

So, you’ve finished decorating your bedroom and have gotten the balance of your space just right. Well, aside from one thing … your bed.  

Even if the rest of your bedroom looks like it’s just leapt out of the pages of a magazine, a messy bed can ruin the entire look. Not only does it affect the aesthetic of your room, walking into your room to be faced with a disheveled bed after a long day at work can also bring down your mood.

That said, it’s possible to dress your bed perfectly, ensuring it looks hotel-ready and matches the rest of the space. Here’s everything you need to know to style your bed like a pro!

Start from the Bottom

When we say start from the bottom, we mean choose the best bed frame and mattress possible. You’ll be spending a good amount of your time on your bed, and the most important part of it is the feel.

Once your mattress is ready, the next step is to start with the sheets. While you can find options in every colour, we recommend starting with a neutral white bedsheet that allows you to layer patterns and prints without clashing.

Choose the Bedspread 

The bedspread is where you can bring in colour and patterns. Ideally, you’ll be adding it to the laundry every 1-2 weeks, so you should have a couple of options you can rotate.

Choose colours and patterns that match your room. You can also divide them based on the season – for example, pastels for the spring, greens, blues, and yellows in summer, reds, browns, and greys for the autumn, and pale blues, oranges, and blacks for the winter.

Add Layers

Adding layers to your bed can make it look more inviting, regardless of the time of year.

There are numerous different types of bedding you can use to layer up, including quilts, blankets, comforters, duvets and duvet covers, and throws. There are no right or wrong answer for which of these fabrics you should choose for your bed – it depends on your preference.  

One option you can consider is to start with a blanket over your bedsheet and then layer with a quilt or duvet. If you opt for a duvet, one way to make it versatile is to pick a neutral-coloured duvet. Then, add colour using the duvet cover. Fold your blanket and quilt (or duvet) in half or thirds to create a chunky, inviting, and stylised look.

Complete the look with a throw, placing it either at the foot of your bed or in the middle. This creates an opulent-looking bed that you’ll love getting into.

Add Height

Once you’ve got the bedding right, the next thing to do is add height and softness. This is where your pillows will come in.

Begin with the pillows you’ll be using to sleep on, and then build up with pillow shams and cushions. Your pillows can be tucked under your quilt (or other covering) or placed above it, depending on your personal preference.

Your largest pillow shams should match your main bed covering, while your daily-use pillows should match your bedsheet (or be a part of the sheet set). These will fill up the space near your headboard and help add height to your bed.

The next step is to play with accent pillows to make the bed look cosier and more inviting. There’s no right number when it comes to pillows – it’s just a question of what works for you.

Designers will often recommend sticking to 3 pillows. However, you can always add in more or use fewer. Ultimately, the right number will depend on you, but odd number groupings look best.

Like your duvets, one way to make the most of your pillows is to purchase a range of pillowcases. You can vary the colours and patterns to change up the look and prevent a sense of stagnation and, like with duvet covers, can have a selection of options depending on the season.

An important part of styling your bed is maintaining it, and this means being conscious about ensuring there’s no clutter or mess on it. You should also fold your quilts and throws and make your bed every day, so you don’t fall out of the habit. If you haven’t styled your nightstands yet, you should do so as well – even a little accessorising can help your bed stand out in your room!