If you’ve ever admired the perfectly styled beds in luxury hotels or interior design magazines, chances are you’ve spotted a pillow sham—whether you realized it or not. So, what is a pillow sham exactly? And more importantly, why does it belong in your bedroom?
Let’s lift the veil on this often misunderstood bedding essential and explore how it transforms a bed from basic to beautiful.
What Is a Pillow Sham, Really?
At its core, a pillow sham is a decorative cover for a pillow. Unlike your everyday pillowcase, which is designed for functionality and comfort during sleep, a sham is designed for style. Think of it as the blazer over your favorite tee—completely optional, but it pulls the whole look together.
You’ll usually find pillow shams featuring rich textures, intricate embroidery, or a flanged border that adds visual depth to your bed. They are often made with stiffer materials than sleeping pillowcases, which helps them hold shape and contribute structure to your bedding ensemble.
Bring effortless elegance to your bedroom with our handcrafted Pillow Shams Collection
Sham vs. Pillowcase: What’s the Difference?
This is where many people get confused—and for good reason. Some retailers even use the terms interchangeably. But once you know the distinctions, it’s easy to tell them apart:
|
Feature |
Pillowcase |
Pillow Sham |
|
Primary Purpose |
Protection & comfort while sleeping |
Decoration |
|
Opening |
Side |
Back (often with envelope or zip closure) |
|
Design |
Simple, soft |
Embellished, structured, often with flanges |
|
Material |
Soft and breathable (cotton, bamboo) |
Structured or textured (matelassé, sateen) |
Shams are crafted to complement duvet covers, bed linens, or headboards. The goal? Cohesion, contrast, and elevated style.
For the complete look, pair your shams with our Bed Linens Collection
Can You Sleep on a Pillow Sham?
Technically, yes. But it’s not recommended. Most shams are made with decorative or textured fabrics and feature raised borders (like flanges) that can be scratchy, stiff, or uncomfortable. They’re best left for display.
Many customers remove sham-covered pillows before bed or layer them behind their sleeping pillows for added depth and cushioning. That way, you get both beauty and comfort.
Want decorative AND functional pillows? Explore our Fairmont Collection
What Size Is a Pillow Sham?
Pillow shams come in a variety of sizes to match standard pillow dimensions. The most common types include:
- Standard Sham: 20" x 26" (fits standard pillows)
- Queen Sham: 20" x 30"
- King Sham: 20" x 36"
- Euro Sham: 26" x 26" (square, often used for back support or design layering)
Choosing the right size ensures your sham lays flat and frames the pillow properly without slouching.
Match the size to your luxury inserts from our Pillows Collection
Styling With Shams: Three Easy Bed Looks
A pillow sham isn’t just a cover—it’s a styling tool. Here are three go-to arrangements:
1. The Hotel Stack
Layer standard sleeping pillows flat on the mattress. Stack sham-covered pillows directly on top. Clean. Minimal. Luxurious.
2. The Layered Look
Prop your sleeping pillows against the headboard. Layer Euro shams behind standard shams. Add a bolster or accent cushion in front for a designer vibe.
3. The Asymmetrical Arrangement
Perfect for more modern or bohemian interiors. Cluster shams on one side of the bed, offset by varied shapes and textures for an intentional yet relaxed look.
Start styling your dream bed with the Duvets Collection
Are Pillow Shams Machine Washable?
It depends. Many shams made from cotton, sateen, or polyester blends are machine washable. However, shams with delicate embroidery, beading, or decorative trims may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
Always check the care label. At Northern Feather, we recommend gentle cycles and mild detergents to protect the integrity of your decorative bedding.
Add the finishing touch to your bed with our premium Pillow Shams Collection—where luxury meets design.
Do You Need a Pillow Sham?
No. But if you care about how your bedroom looks and feels, then yes—you might just want one.
A pillow sham is a low-effort, high-impact way to bring sophistication, color, and design cohesion to your sleep sanctuary. It’s the visual polish that says, “This bed belongs in a boutique hotel.”
Need help choosing the right accessories? Contact our team
Q&A: Common Questions About Pillow Shams
Q: Can I sleep on a pillow sham every night?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Most shams aren’t made with comfort in mind. Use them for styling, not sleeping.
Q: What’s the difference between Euro and standard shams?
A: Euro shams are square (26x26") and often used in the back row for height and structure. Standard shams are rectangular and typically sit in front.
Q: How many shams should I use on a queen bed?
A: For a clean look, two standard shams. For layering, add two Euros behind and a small accent pillow in front.
Q: Can I buy pillow shams separately from a bedding set?
A: Absolutely. Northern Feather offers individual shams so you can mix, match, and elevate your existing bedding.
Still wondering what to choose? Browse our FAQs or Request a Quote
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