What Is Pillow Sham?

Pillow shams are decorative covers for pillows, often featuring a slightly flanged or frilled edge, and sometimes a hidden zipper or closure. Unlike typical pillowcases which are designed for sleeping, shams serve a more ornamental purpose and are intended to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed or couch. They can add texture, color, and pattern to a room’s decor and are generally not used as the primary pillow for sleeping due to their elaborate design and sometimes delicate fabrics.

Understanding the Basics of Pillow Shams

Pillow shams come in various sizes to fit standard, queen, and king-sized pillows, similar to regular pillowcases. They differ from standard pillowcases in terms of their construction and use. Constructed with more decorative elements and often made from premium or more delicate materials, they are primarily meant to be display pieces rather than functional bedding.

History of the Pillow Sham

The term “sham” originates from the English word “shamming,” which means to trick or deceive. This refers to the fact that pillow shams were originally designed to deceive the onlooker into thinking that a simple pillow was a more decorative piece. Historically, shams have been used in interior design to mimic the look of a more structured and ornate pillow, without the need to spend extensively on intricately designed pillows.

Materials and Design

Common materials for pillow shams include cotton, linen, silk, and sateen, with some featuring elaborate embellishments such as embroidery, lace trims, ruffles, or pintucks. The front of the sham often has these decorative features, whereas the back usually has an opening (sometimes with a hidden zipper or overlapping fabric) that allows a pillow to be inserted.

Types of Pillow Shams and Their Uses

Pillow shams are not only varied in terms of materials but also in their style and design, each catering to a different aesthetic or use throughout the home.

Euro Sham

A Euro sham is a square decorative pillow cover often used on large beds or as a backdrop for other pillows. Typically, Euro shams measure 26 by 26 inches and can create depth and dimension when placed behind standard shams on a bed.

Standard, Queen, and King Shams

These shams are tailored to fit the respective standard, queen, and king-sized bed pillows. Like Euro shams, they add a decorative touch but are designed to sit in front of larger pillows due to their rectangular shape and size that matches the traditional sleeping pillows.

Decorative Shams

Decorative shams can come in non-standard shapes like circles, ovals, or custom sizes. They can feature even more embellishments and unusual fabrics. These are less about providing a backdrop or uniform look and more about adding a unique decorative element to the room.

Decorating with Pillow Shams

Pillow shams are versatile decor elements, used for styling beds, couches, and even as floor cushions in some cases.

Layering with Different Pillow Sizes

Layering various sizes of pillow shams can add depth to your bed’s arrangement. Starting with the largest in the back, such as Euro shams, and working your way to the smallest in the front is a common strategy for a polished look.

Creating a Color Scheme

Utilizing pillow shams allows you to tie together a room’s color scheme or introduce new accent colors without major changes to the decor. They are perfect for experimenting with patterns, textures, and hues.

Seasonal and Thematic Decorating

You can easily change your decor with the seasons or for special occasions by swapping out pillow shams. For instance, lighter, floral designs for spring or heavier, textured fabrics for winter can refresh a room instantly.

Caring for Pillow Shams

The maintenance of pillow shams depends greatly on the material and design. Here are some general guidelines.

Washing and Drying

Always refer to the care instructions specific to your pillow shams. Some may be machine washable, while others could require hand washing or dry cleaning. Be gentle with delicate fabrics and trims to avoid damage.

Ironing and Storage

Carefully ironing your shams after washing can keep them looking crisp and new. Protect special occasion shams by storing them flat or in a linen closet with acid-free tissue paper to maintain their shape and prevent yellowing or fabric degradation.

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Choosing the Right Pillow Shams for Your Home

When selecting pillow shams, consider the following elements to ensure they meet your functional and aesthetic needs.

Match Your Bedroom’s Decor

Choose shams that complement your existing bedding and bedroom décor. They can match your duvet cover or provide a contrasting pop of color or texture.

Focus on Fabric Quality

Remember that the fabric can determine not only the look but also the longevity of the sham. High-quality fabrics can endure more washings and maintain their appearance over time.

Consider the Closure

Check the type of closure the sham has—envelope, zipper, or button. Your preference might be determined by the ease of use or the finished look you wish to achieve.

Finishing Thoughts

Pillow shams are wonderful additions that can drastically alter the feel and look of a bedroom or living space. Whether you favor the intricacies of a delicately embroidered Euro sham or the minimalist charm of a standard sham, these decorative covers have the power to transform and enhance any room’s aesthetic. By choosing the right materials, designs, and care techniques, you can weave a tapestry of comfort and style throughout your home that is as practical as it is pleasing to the eye. Remember, the ultimate goal with pillow shams is to create a space that you love and that reflects your personal style while adding an extra layer of comfort and sophistication.

Author

  • Ollie Lane

    My name is Ollie Lane, the zestful spirit and sleep enthusiast editor at GoodSleepHub. Blending my expertise in Sleep Technology with a dash of whimsy, I'm all about transforming your nights from blah to ta-da! I believe great sleep is a blend of science, art, and a bit of fairy dust. When I'm not knee-deep in the latest sleep gadgetry or jotting down notes for my next blog post, you can find me strumming on my ukulele or chasing after my mischievous beagle, Benny. My approach to sleep is like my music: playful, innovative, and always in tune with your needs.

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