What Is A Sham For Bed

Overview

A sham for bed, commonly referred to simply as a “bed sham,” is a decorative pillow cover used to enhance the visual appeal of a bed. Unlike standard pillowcases, which are primarily functional and designed for sleeping pillows, shams serve an ornamental purpose. They often coordinate with the bedding ensemble, including comforters, quilts, or duvet covers, contributing to the overall aesthetic and style of a bedroom.

Detailed Explanation

Bed shams are typically made from fabrics that complement or match the bedspread, such as cotton, linen, silk, or synthetic blends. They may feature various embellishments, including embroidery, piping, flange edges, or ruffles, to add texture and design interest. Shams are usually designed to fit standard pillow sizes but often have an extended flange or border that distinguishes them from regular pillowcases.

While shams are primarily decorative and not intended for sleeping, they can sometimes be used on pillows that support sitting up in bed. They are often placed in front of sleeping pillows or arranged as part of a layered bedding display.

How It Works

A bed sham functions by encasing a pillow, usually a standard or decorative pillow, with a cover that enhances the visual style of the bed. It typically has an opening on one side, often with an envelope closure or buttons, which allows the pillow to be inserted or removed easily. By covering the pillow with a sham, the bedding arrangement achieves a coordinated and polished look, creating a sense of order and style.

Bed shams can be swapped out to change the bedroom’s decor or to adapt to different seasons, colors, or design themes. They are also easy to remove for cleaning or replacement, making them a practical choice for maintaining bedroom aesthetics.

Examples

• Classic Flange Sham: Features a simple border or flange around the edges, adding a subtle frame to the pillow.
• Ruffled Sham: Includes ruffled or frilled edges, providing a more ornate and traditional appearance.
• Envelope Closure Sham: Has a hidden envelope-style opening on the back to secure the pillow inside.
• Button Closure Sham: Uses buttons along one edge as a closure mechanism, often adding decorative detail.

Why It Matters

Bed shams are important in interior design and home decor because they allow for a versatile and easily changeable element in bedroom styling. They contribute to a cohesive and inviting environment by coordinating with other bedding components and room furnishings. Additionally, shams protect pillows from dust and wear when not in use for sleeping, thereby extending the life of decorative pillows.

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Bed shams and pillowcases are the same.
Correction: Pillowcases are intended for sleeping pillows and prioritize comfort, while shams are decorative and often have design features like flanges or closures that make them unsuitable for sleeping.

Misconception: Bed shams are necessary for all pillows.
Correction: Shams are optional decorative covers and are not required for functional sleeping pillows or for all bedding styles.

Pros and Cons

Comparison Table

Decision Checklist

• Use this if you want to enhance bedroom decor and protect decorative pillows.
• Avoid this if you prefer minimal bedding accessories or prioritize pillow comfort for sleeping.
• Check this first to ensure the sham size matches your pillows and coordinates with your bedding style.

What is the easiest way to understand a Sham for Bed?

The simplest way to understand a bed sham is to think of it as a decorative jacket for a pillow—designed not for sleeping comfort but to dress up the bed and create a polished, coordinated look.