Bed shams are a great way to add some style and interest to your bedding without having to replace your entire bedding set. They can be easily switched out to match different seasons or to create a new look in your bedroom.
There are different sizes of shams available, including Euro shams, standard shams, and king shams. Euro shams are the largest and typically measure 26 x 26 inches. They are often used as a backdrop for smaller decorative pillows. Standard shams are the most common size and usually measure 20 x 26 inches. They are designed to fit standard size pillows. King shams are larger than standard shams and measure 20 x 36 inches. They are designed to fit king size pillows.
Bed shams come in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, so you can easily find something that matches your existing bedding or creates a new look altogether. When choosing bed shams, consider the style of your bedding, the color scheme of your room, and the overall look you are trying to achieve. Bed shams are usually designed for decorative purposes and, as a result, are typically only adorned on the front side. The back of the sham is made with solid fabric. These shams are typically fastened at the back of the pillow using overlapping fabric, a hidden zipper, or buttons.
Since decorative shams are typically not used for sleeping, many people choose to pair them with relatively inexpensive pillows. However, it’s important to note that these pillows are usually sold separately as bed shams typically do not come with pillows included.
Different Types Of Bed Shams
Bed shams, like pillowcases, are available in various sizes to match the size and style of the pillow you have. Usually, shams included in the bedding set will match the pillow sizes that go with the bed size, but if you desire a distinct appearance, you can mix and match. Below are the different types of shams we have:
King Shams
King shams are primarily designed to fit king and California king size beds, but they can also be used as decorative pillows on smaller beds. The larger size of the king sham can provide a more luxurious and elegant look to the bed. However, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall design aesthetic of the bedroom. Some people may prefer to use smaller shams on smaller beds to maintain a balanced look, while others may choose to use a king sham as a statement piece. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide how to style their bedding to achieve the desired look and feel.
Queen Shams
Queen shams are typically designed to fit a queen-sized pillow, which measures approximately 30 inches by 20 inches. Two queen-size sham pillows placed side by side will typically fit snugly across the width of a standard queen mattress, which measures approximately 60 inches wide. It’s important to check the specific measurements of your bedding and mattress to ensure the best fit.
Standard Shams
A standard sham pillowcase is typically designed to fit a standard size pillow, which is usually around 20 inches by 26 inches in size. Standard shams themselves are slightly larger than the pillow, measuring around 20 inches by 26 inches or 21 inches by 27 inches, to accommodate the pillow and give it a fuller look. Standard shams are usually best suited for twin beds, where one sham can be placed on the bed for a neat and cohesive look. However, they can also be used on full or queen beds, where two shams can be placed side-by-side to create a symmetrical look.
Euro Shams
Euro shams, also referred to as European or continental shams, have a size of around 26 inches by 26 inches and are designed to fit Euro-style pillows that have a square shape instead of the conventional rectangular shape. This type of bed sham can be utilized by placing pillows upright directly behind the pillows used for sleeping, creating a fuller and more opulent appearance for the bed.
Why Do We Use Bed Shams?
Bed shams are typically used solely for decorative purposes. They are essentially pillowcases with a decorative front that gives the appearance of a well-styled bed. These shams often feature unique designs and patterns, adding a burst of color, texture, and dimension to your bedroom decor.
As some bed shams are used for decoration, it may not be comfortable to rest on them while in bed. However, they can be useful for providing back support when sitting up to read or work. Typically, people tend to remove the pillows covered by shams from the bed before sleeping and replace them in the morning when making the bed.
Pillow shams can be purchased separately or as part of a bedding set. To ensure that you select the best pillow sham for your needs, be sure to confirm the size of the pillow you plan to use with the sham.
How to Style Bed Shams
When it comes to making your bed with shams, the design possibilities are limitless. For instance, incorporating pillows of various sizes can create a sense of depth in your room.
Arrange the larger pillows by placing them against the headboard or wall. Then, create a descending order of layers by placing smaller pillows such as neck rolls and boudoir pillows in front. While three layers are typically used, feel free to use your creativity and arrange the pillows on the bed in any way you desire, as there are no fixed rules. Many people choose to stack their sleeping pillows on their bed and place the bed shams on top to protect the pillows from dust and keep them fresh for when they are ready to use them again.
Making your bed in the morning can also have psychological benefits, as it helps you start your day with a sense of accomplishment and order. It can also make your bedroom look more tidy and put-together, which can have a positive effect on your mood and overall well-being. By choosing the right colors, patterns, and textures, bed shams can help create a warm and inviting space that feels like a sanctuary from the outside world.
