8 Tips for a Well-Dressed Bed
Are you wondering how to make your bed look (and feel) like it could be straight from a magazine spread? It all comes down to layering. Design your well-dressed bed so that the moment you see it, you want to sink into it. If you’d love to know how to layer a bed like we do here at Pottery Barn, we’re here to guide you with some of our helpful tips on how to make a bed beautiful and cozy.
Layer No. 1: Start with Sheets
Begin with a foundation of fresh white sheets. That way, you’ll feel like you’re lying in a soft cloud. White allows you to freely layer on other prints, patterns and textures without having to coordinate them with your sheets. There are plenty of white sheet sets with flourishes to kick up the style a notch or two, too. Look for sets with eyelets or embroidered trims, scalloped or ruffled trims or a subtle contrasting color stripe, for example. Knowing how to choose bedding starts with crisp, cozy sheets that help you start building your comfy cocoon.
Layer No. 2: Top with a Quilt or Coverlet
Are you ready for more warmth and style? Over the flat sheet, place a pretty, lightweight quilt or coverlet. Quilts and coverlets often have casual, colorful or intricate patterns that visually warm up your room. Quilts and coverlet sets usually include coordinating shams, too, for a finished look with your pillows. In warmer weather, you’ll have the option of sleeping under just the quilt and cover sheet. In colder weather, the quilt will most likely provide added warmth. You can also fold it down to the foot of your bed. Either way, it’s an essential part of how to layer bedding during any season – it’s both practical and beautiful.
Layer No. 3: Add a Duvet or Comforter
To further fluff up the bed and add to your comfort, lay a duvet or comforter over the quilt. If your quilt or coverlet is patterned, consider coordinating the colors with a tone-on-tone or subtly patterned duvet or comforter. In warmer weather, simply fold the duvet or comforter down to the foot of the bed. To make the bed appear higher and longer, use a duvet cover with subtle tone-on-tone stripes running from the head of the bed to the foot.
Though comforters are plush enough, duvet inserts are also known for loft. With a duvet on your bed, it can appear even taller. One tip for choosing a pattern for your duvet or comforter if you plan to go bolder: Find a design that feels beautiful yet subdued. If it’s a large pattern, for example, try it in a neutral color. If you prefer a brighter color, on the other hand, go for a pattern that's smaller or more delicate. A simpler design lets you easily incorporate the patterns and colors on the bed with your other linens and furniture upholstery.
Layer No. 4: Toss on Some Pillows
Knowing the basics of arranging pillows elevates your bed from basic to well-dressed. Layer pillows three rows deep for a voluminous look. The largest size of pillows, typically the bed pillows, go upright in the back. Next, arrange the shams so the bed pillows are peeking out from behind. For a king-size bed, try three shams to fill in the space. King-size bed pillows are large enough to fill gaps behind the shams.
Are you ready to let loose with your creativity? Arrange a layer of small accent pillows in contrasting colors and textures. Choose squares, bolsters, lumbar and rounds – whatever you love. Mix and match them. It’s fine if you want to keep the number to a minimum so you don’t have many extra pillows to take off the bed when you want to get in and relax!
Layer No. 5: Spread Out Throws and Blankets
Details count on your well-dressed bed. Folded throws and blankets at the bottom of the bed or tossed onto an end-of-bed bench will entice you. Chunky cable knit or faux fur throws add an immediate sense of luxurious texture. Even when you simply toss them onto the bed instead of folding them, throws and blankets make the space look elegant and inviting.
Optional Layer: Add a Bed Skirt
You may wonder if a bed skirt is a requirement of the well-dressed bed. It’s optional – plus, there are so many bed frame styles and headboards that don’t require a dust ruffle. If you like a formal box-pleated or button-pleated bed skirt or more casual ruffled style in voile, it’s entirely your call. As an added bonus, these linens easily hide whatever you store underneath your bed.
The Hotel-Inspired Bed
If you're opting for a hotel-style bed, a few tips can help you replicate the look. Hotel-inspired beds are typically contemporary. They have pared-down bedding that still appears lush and inviting. Choose top-quality white linens and sheets as the base layer. Keep the color palette of the quilt, duvet or comforter and throws neutral but elegant. Look for one or two decorative pillows. Keep them small and in simple shapes to round out your well-dressed bed.
Are you ready to start layering? These easy tips will help you dress your bed to impress!