Everything You Need to Know About Pillow Shams

The Decorative Touch: Understanding Pillow Shams

What are shams? They are decorative pillow covers designed to improve your bedding’s aesthetic appeal. Specifically made to fit standard, king, or Euro-sized pillows, shams feature elaborate designs and closures typically at the back.

Quick Overview:
– Definition: Decorative pillow covers with designs.
– Common Sizes: Standard (26″ x 20″), King (36″ x 20″), Euro (26″ x 26″).
– History: Originated in the 1700s as “false front” pillowcases.

Pillow shams have a rich history, evolving from simple “false front” pillowcases in the 1700s to highly decorative elements today. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes—elevating your bedding’s look while providing support when sitting up in bed.

Why choose shams? They add layers and texture to your bed, creating a polished, neat appearance. Available in various sizes and fabrics, they can complement any bedroom decor.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the founder of Yawnder, and I’ve spent years helping people improve their sleep environment. With my insights, you’ll understand exactly what are shams and how they can transform your bedroom into a stylish oasis.

What Are Shams?

Pillow shams are decorative pillow covers designed to improve the aesthetic appeal of your bed. Unlike regular pillowcases, which are primarily functional, shams add a touch of elegance and style to your bedding ensemble.

History of Pillow Shams

The origins of pillow shams can be traced back to Europe. The term “sham” comes from the Arabic word “shama,” meaning a covering or curtain. In the Middle Ages, shams were used by the upper classes to display wealth and luxury. Crafted from luxurious fabrics like silk or satin and adorned with intricate embroidery, lace, or ribbons, they served both decorative and functional purposes.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, pillow shams became an essential part of the elaborate beddings of the nobility. Over time, their use spread across different cultures and social classes, evolving in design and materials. Today, pillow shams are a common bedding accessory available in various styles, colors, and sizes.

Purpose of Pillow Shams

Pillow shams serve multiple purposes:

1. Decorative: Shams add a layer of style and elegance to your bed. They often feature intricate patterns, embroidery, textures, or embellishments, making your bed look polished and inviting.

2. Protection: Shams protect your pillows from dirt, oils, and other contaminants. This helps extend the life of your pillows while keeping them clean.

3. Style and Elegance: Shams complement your bedding ensemble, often matching or coordinating with your duvet cover, bedspread, or quilt. They provide a cohesive look to your bedroom decor.

4. Versatility: Available in various sizes and shapes, shams can be used to create different decorative arrangements. They can be placed in front of sleeping pillows or behind regular pillowcases to add depth and dimension to your bed.

In summary, pillow shams are a beautiful and functional bedding accessory that can transform your bedroom into a stylish oasis. By understanding the history and purpose of shams, you can make informed choices to improve your bedroom decor.

Types of Pillow Shams

When it comes to pillow shams, there are several types to choose from, each serving a unique purpose and adding a special touch to your bedding ensemble. Let’s dive into the different types available.

Standard Shams

Standard shams are the most common type of pillow shams. They are rectangular and typically measure 20 inches by 26 inches. These shams are designed to fit standard-sized pillows and often serve as the foundation for layering additional decorative pillows. They are perfect for creating a cohesive and symmetrical look on your bed.

King Shams

King shams are larger than standard shams, measuring around 20 inches by 36 inches. As the name suggests, they are designed to fit king-sized pillows. King shams are great for decorating larger beds, such as king or California king beds, and add a touch of elegance to the overall bedding ensemble.

Euro Shams

Euro shams are square-shaped pillow covers that measure approximately 26 inches by 26 inches. They are larger than standard or king shams and are commonly used as the back layer of pillows when arranging pillows on the bed. Euro shams provide a backdrop for decorative pillows and add volume to the bedding display.

Boudoir Shams

Boudoir shams are small rectangular decorative pillow covers that fit a 12-inch by 16-inch boudoir pillow. These shams are often used as decorative accents on the bed, adding a touch of charm and sophistication to your bedding arrangement.

Neckroll Shams

Neckroll shams are cylindrical decorative coverings designed for neckroll or bolster pillows. These shams add a unique and stylish element to your bed, providing both decorative appeal and functional support when sitting up in bed.

Each type of pillow sham serves a specific purpose and can be used in various ways to improve the overall look of your bedroom. Whether you prefer the classic look of standard shams or the neat touch of Euro shams, there’s a style to suit every taste and decor preference.

How to Use Pillow Shams

Placement on the Bed

Pillow shams are all about adding that extra touch of style and sophistication to your bed. But where exactly do they go? It’s all about placement and creating a visually appealing arrangement.

• In front of sleeping pillows: One common method is to place shams in front of your regular sleeping pillows. This creates a layered look that adds depth and dimension to your bed.

• Behind regular pillowcases: Another popular option is to place your pillows with shams behind your regular pillowcases. This can give a neat and tidy appearance, especially if you have decorative shams that you don’t want to hide.

Layering Techniques

Now that you know where to place your shams, let’s talk about layering techniques. Layering isn’t just practical; it’s also a great way to add visual interest to your bed.

• Twin or Full Beds: For smaller beds like twin or full, you might use one or two shams. Place them either in front of or behind your sleeping pillows, depending on your preference. This simple arrangement can make a small bed look more inviting and stylish.

• Queen or King Beds: Larger beds allow for more creativity. For queen and king beds, you can use two or three shams. Start by leaning your sleeping pillows against the headboard. Then, place your shams in front of them. Add a couple of decorative pillows or bolsters in front for that extra flair.

Decorative Arrangements

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider these decorative arrangements:

• Stacked: Lay your sleeping pillows flat and stack the shams on top. This is a quick and easy way to make your bed look polished.

• Layered: Lean your sleeping pillows against the headboard, then layer Euro shams, standard or king shams, and finally, smaller decorative pillows like boudoir shams. This creates a rich, textured look that can make your bed the focal point of the room.

• Asymmetrical: For a more creative approach, try an asymmetrical arrangement. Place larger pillows on one side and smaller ones on the other. This works best if the pillows are similar in color and texture, adding a unique touch without looking chaotic.

Support When Sitting

Shams aren’t just for looks. They can also provide support when sitting up in bed. Whether you’re reading a book or watching TV, placing shams behind your back can offer extra comfort and support.

In summary, the key to using pillow shams effectively lies in their placement and the layering techniques you choose. Whether you prefer a simple, stacked look or a more elaborate layered arrangement, shams can transform your bed into a cozy and stylish retreat.

Materials and Designs

Common Fabrics

Pillow shams come in a variety of fabric types that cater to different tastes and needs. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Cotton: This is the most common fabric for shams. It’s breathable, durable, and easy to care for. Cotton shams can be found in an array of weaves, from crisp percale to soft sateen.

• Silk: Known for its luxurious feel and neat sheen, silk shams add a touch of opulence to any bed. However, they require more delicate care.

• Satin: Satin shams offer a smooth, glossy finish that can lift the look of your bedding. They’re often used in more formal or glamorous bedroom settings.

Many shams are designed to match the duvet cover or other bedding elements, creating a cohesive and polished look. This makes it easy to coordinate your entire bed ensemble.

Design Elements

The beauty of pillow shams lies in their design elements. These decorative details can transform a simple pillow into a piece of art. Here are some common features:

• Intricate Patterns: From geometric shapes to floral designs, patterns can add visual interest and personality to your shams.

• Embroidery: This can range from simple monograms to elaborate designs. Embroidered shams often serve as the focal point of a bedding set.

• Lace: Adding a touch of lace can give shams a vintage or romantic feel. Lace trims are especially popular on boudoir and neckroll shams.

• Ribbons: Ribbons can be used as ties for the closure or as decorative accents. They add a playful and charming touch to the shams.

• Textures: Textured fabrics like matelassé or quilted cotton add depth and dimension. These textures can make your bedding look rich and inviting.

By choosing the right materials and designs, you can make your pillow shams not just a functional part of your bedding, but a standout decorative element that improves the overall aesthetic of your bedroom.

In the next section, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about pillow shams, helping you make informed decisions about your bedding decor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pillow Shams

What is the difference between a sham and a pillowcase?

A pillow sham is a decorative pillow cover that transforms a standard pillow into a stylish accent for your bed. Unlike pillowcases, which are designed to be slept on, shams are more about appearance.

• Opening Style: Pillowcases are open at one end, making it easy to slip the pillow in and out. Shams usually have an opening in the back, often with a hidden closure like an overlapping fabric or a zipper.

• Closure Type: Pillowcases typically have no closure mechanism, while shams may feature buttons, zippers, or fabric overlaps to keep the pillow securely inside.

• Decorative vs Functional: Pillowcases are primarily functional, made to protect your pillow from oils and dirt while you sleep. Shams, however, are designed to be decorative, often featuring elaborate patterns, embroidery, or textures.

Can you sleep with Shams?

Technically, yes—you can sleep on a pillow sham. However, that’s not their main purpose. Shams are meant to be decorative and might not be as comfortable as regular pillowcases.

• Decorative Use: Shams are often made from textured or thicker materials, which might not feel as soft against your skin. They are designed to add style and elegance to your bedding ensemble.

• Support: Some people use shams for extra support when sitting up in bed, like when reading or watching TV.

• Comfort: Because of their decorative nature, shams might include bulky flanges or embellishments that can be uncomfortable to sleep on. Most people remove the shams before going to bed to keep them clean and avoid discomfort.

What is the point of shams?

Shams serve multiple purposes, primarily focused on enhancing the look of your bed.

• Style: Shams add a layer of design to your bedding, making your bed look more put-together and stylish. They can match or complement your duvet cover, adding a cohesive look to your bedroom decor.

• Elegance: The intricate designs, patterns, and textures of shams can lift the elegance of your bedding, making your bedroom feel more luxurious.

• Protection: While not their primary function, shams can also protect your pillows from dust and dirt, especially when used as a front layer.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Shams contribute to the overall aesthetic of your room. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more elaborate design, shams can help achieve the desired visual effect.

By understanding these key differences and purposes, you can make an informed decision about incorporating shams into your bedding setup.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to use pillow shams effectively, including placement and layering techniques to create a visually appealing bed.

Conclusion

At Yawnder, we understand the importance of perfect bedding in creating a comfortable and stylish bedroom. Our expert evaluations ensure that you get the best products to improve your sleep environment and bedroom decor.

Yawnder is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about your bedding. We have carefully studied and evaluated many different products, from mattresses to pillow shams, to provide you with the best options. Our insights and evaluations are based on extensive personal experience and valuable customer feedback. This means you can trust our recommendations to improve your bedroom decor and overall sleep experience.

If you’re looking to improve your bedroom decor, incorporating pillow shams is a simple yet effective way to add style and elegance. Shams come in various sizes, fabrics, and designs, allowing you to customize your bedding to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more elaborate design, shams can help you achieve the desired visual effect.

For the perfect bedding, consider the variety of shams available, from standard to king, euro, boudoir, and neckroll shams. Each type offers unique benefits and can be used in different ways to create a visually appealing bed. By layering and arranging your shams effectively, you can transform your bed into a luxurious and inviting oasis.

To explore our carefully curated selection of bedding products and find the perfect pillow shams for your needs, visit our Bedding Reviews Collection for Ultimate Comfort. Our expert evaluations and detailed assessments will guide you in making the best choice for a restful and stylish bedroom.

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide on what are shams. We hope this information helps you create a beautiful and comfortable bedroom that you’ll love.