All About Pillow Shams

Pillow sham definition

Pillow shams are decorative covers for pillows.  Pillowcases typically coordinate with sheet sets while pillow shams coordinate with comforters, quilts, or bedspreads. Often pillow shams are used on a second pillow and the pillowcase reserved for the "sleep" pillow.  If the bed is also used for reading or watching television, this second pillow serves as a bolster for additional support.   Pillow shams can be placed over pillowcases to protect the sleeping surface when not in use.  Pillowcases may have a smoother texture than pillow shams because the pillowcase is expected to come in contact with the face while sleeping. Pillow shams are an elemental touch to express your personality.

Pillow sham styles

Most pillow shams have overlapping fabric sections in the back where the pillow is inserted and removed.  Some pillow shams may have closures such as buttons, Velcro or zippers.  Euro pillow shams are sewn onto the pillow and are not removable. Pillow sham styles include corded, flanged, and ruffled.

Corded pillow shams are the simplest style with a corded edge around the pillow sham perimeter. Corded styles convey a relaxed, casual appearance without being frivolous. 

Flanged pillow shams have a flat, square corner border around the perimeter radiating a polished, elegant, formal look.

Ruffle-edged pillow shams exude fun country charm.

Pillow sham fabrics

Pillow shams come in an array of fabrics including linen cotton, silk, wool, and blended fibers.  Textures can range from crisp seersucker to sumptuous velvet, sleek satin to cozy corduroy.  Pillow shams can be quilted or embroidered for detailing. Mix and match forms to create an imaginative, inviting retreat. 

Consider selecting different pillow shams for summer and winter to vary the look of your bedroom. 

Rich colors and deeper textures, such as velvet, wool, or corduroy project attractive warmth for cooler weather.

Light or bright colors with smooth to crisp textures, like satin or seersucker, emit a fresh tone for warmer weather.

Pillow shams should be cleaned at least once per season.  Read and follow fabric care instructions carefully to preserve the look of pillow shams.

Making the bed with pillow shams

Option A - 1 pillow deep at head of bed

Smooth the sheets, blankets and comforter to the head of the bed. 

Insert pillow into pillow sham - smoothing and fluffing for proper fit.

Place pillow flat or against headboard.

Add additional accent pillows can complete the look.

Option B - 2 pillows deep at head of bed

Smooth sheets and blankets toward head of bed.

EITHER put pillow(s) on top of bedding and cover with comforter.

OR put pillow(s) on top of comforter.

Place sham covered pillows as top layer at head of bed.

Add additional accent pillows can complete the look.

Popular pillow shams

Pillow shams are a great way to keep current with bedroom decor fashion trends without breaking the budget. Pillow shams can be chosen for fabric comfort, fashion style, or both. Adding or changing pillow shams quickly updates a room or changes the tone to reflect the occupant. Printed pillow shams continue an established decor motif such as nautical or geometric.  Monochrome tones for the entire bed create a serene mood.

Basic pillow sham styles:

Corded pillow shams are the simplest style with a corded edge around the pillow sham perimeter. Corded styles convey a relaxed, casual appearance without being frivolous. 

Flanged pillow shams have a flat, even border around the perimeter expressing a polished, elegant, formal look.

Ruffle-edged pillow shams reveal fun country charm.

Euro shams are sewn onto the pillow and are not removable.

Many Euro shams measure 27 x 27 square.

Popular pillow shams include:

Bold colors and dramatic prints to enliven a room

Quilted pillow shams add touches of tradition and timelessness

Multiple pillow sets highlighting fabrics from a coordinating quilt

Embroidered linen pillow shams feature colorful designs or ornate cutwork

Novelty prints to feature a favorite character from childhood books, television, or films

Sports teams for fans and themed rooms

Favorite brand names for the dedicated collector

Quotation pillow shams with mottos or words of encouragement

Luxury fabrics such as velvet, silk, satin or lace

Rugged fabrics such as canvas, denim, leather or blanket weight wool

Designer pillow shams

Designer pillow shams are as varied in design and price as the number of designers. 

Brand name designer collections create a consistency in overall fashion theme

Laura Ashley perennial favorite bedding sets including pillow shams, such as Rosecliff, Rosemoor, Cottage Rose, and Bramble collections

Nicole Miller bedding collections include, standard, king and euro pillow shams

Tapestry pillow shams provide rich design details

Hand sewn pillow shams offer distinctive artistic designs with irregular and asymmetrical piecing and detailing

Combining contrasting fabrics, such as heavy wool with smooth leather, satin with suede, or lace with brushed cotton gives added visual dimension

Feature details may include decorative fringe, beading, feathers, or appliqués

Personalized pillow shams:

Consider personalizing plain fabric pillow shams using a laundry marker or fabric pen:

Celebrate a title: Player of the Week, Honor Society, Grand Prize

Write a favorite quotation

Have slumber party guests sign a pillow sham for a personal keepsake

Commemorate a special occasion, shared experience or life event

Further uses for pillow shams:

Don't limit pillow shams to the bedroom. Standard size bed pillows with durable pillow shams can be used

On couches or oversized chairs

As floor pillows

To create a padded bench

More information on pillow shams