What is a Pillow Sham?

A pillow sham is a decorative pillow cover often used to give your bed a more polished and stylish look. They enhance the overall aesthetic of your bedding by adding texture, color, and pattern. 

Pillow shams, like the one shown below, are typically made of cotton, linen, or silk. Cotton shams are common because they’re soft, durable, and easy to care for. Linen shams, on the other hand, add a more relaxed, casual elegance to your bedding with their natural texture and breathability. Silk shams are luxurious and smooth, offering a more opulent feel.

Whether you prefer a classic, tailored look or something more plush and cozy, a pillow sham can be the perfect finishing touch to your bedding ensemble.

What’s the Difference Between a Pillow Case and Pillow Sham?

Pillow cases and pillow shams look similar, but they have different purposes. A pillow case is a simple, functional cover for your pillow that primarily protects it from dirt, oils, and wear. They are usually made from soft, comfortable fabrics like cotton or microfiber, designed to be gentle against your skin while you sleep. They typically feature an open end, a tuck flap, also called an envelope design like our LuCara Silk Pillowcases like the example below, making it easy to slip them on and off for washing. Pillow cases focus on providing a clean, fresh surface for you to rest your head on every night.

A pillow sham, on the other hand, is more about style and decoration. While it covers a pillow just like a pillowcase, a sham is designed to enhance the look of your bed. They often have decorative elements like flanges, embroidery, or piping and a hidden back closure, such as an envelope or a zipper, to keep the pillow neatly tucked inside. Ultimately, pillow shams are not built for comfort or practicality; they’re built for aesthetics. 

Can You Sleep With a Pillow Sham?

Yes, you can sleep with a pillow sham. However, it might not get you a very good night’s sleep. Pillow shams typically have decorative embellishments that may prevent them from being comfortable or gentle on your skin. While it's perfectly fine to rest your head on a sham in a pinch, especially if you're just lounging or taking a quick nap, most people prefer to remove them before settling in for the night. A regular pillow case is usually the better choice if you're looking for something comfortable to sleep on.

Why Buy a Pillow Sham

When it comes to creating a well-styled, inviting bed, pillow shams are a must-have accessory. They offer more than just a decorative touch—they bring an added layer of sophistication and personality to your bedroom. Here’s why you might want to consider adding pillow shams to your bedding collection:

• Elevate Your Décor: Pillow shams are a simple way to add a touch of elegance and style to your bed. Whether you choose shams that match your duvet cover or opt for a contrasting color or pattern, they can instantly elevate the overall look of your bedroom.

• Versatile Styling: With pillow shams, you can easily switch up the look of your bed without buying new pillows or other bedding. Changing your shams is a quick and affordable way to refresh your space, whether you’re going for a seasonal update or just want to try something new.

• Create a Cohesive Look: Shams help tie together all the elements of your bedding ensemble, from the comforter or duvet to the throw pillows and blankets. They give your bed a finished, coordinated appearance, making your bedroom feel more put-together.

• Protect Your Pillows: While pillow shams are primarily decorative, they also offer a layer of protection for your pillows. By keeping your pillows inside shams during the day, you can help protect them from dust and wear, extending their lifespan.

How to Pick the Perfect Pillow for Your Sham

Choosing the perfect pillow for your sham is all about finding the right balance between fit and fullness. You'll want a pillow that fills out the sham completely, creating a smooth, plump appearance without any sagging or empty corners. Typically, a standard pillow will work well with a standard sham. However, if you prefer a more luxurious, overstuffed look, consider sizing up slightly or opting for a pillow with extra loft. Pay attention to the pillow’s firmness, too—a medium-firm pillow usually helps shams maintain their shape.

To experience the height of luxury and sophistication, we recommend our feather pillows, white goose down pillows, or European pillows. For help discovering which pillow is perfect for you and your sham, take our free Pillow Quiz!

How to Style Pillow Shams

One of the best things about pillow shams is how incredibly versatile they are. With endless fabrics, designs, and styles to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect sham for your home. There are three popular ways to style pillow shams: stacked, layered, and asymmetrical.

1. Stacked

Styling pillow shams by stacking is a simple yet effective way to create a clean and cohesive look on your bed. This method involves placing multiple pillows with shams flat against the mattress, one on top of the other. The pillows can all be the same size, or they can vary, starting with the largest pillows at the bottom of the stack. By stacking, you create a layered effect that adds depth and dimension to your bedding, making the bed look inviting and thoughtfully arranged.

2. Layered

Styling pillow shams by layering is a classic approach that brings both elegance and comfort to your bed. This technique involves placing pillows with shams flat against the headboard, arranging them in rows with the largest pillows at the back and the smaller ones in front. Layering creates a visually appealing backdrop that adds height and fullness to your bedding, making it look plush. It’s an excellent way to mix and match different sham sizes, colors, and textures.

3. Asymmetrical

Styling pillow shams in an asymmetrical arrangement is a modern and creative way to add visual interest and personality to your bed. It involves placing pillows with shams in an off-center or uneven pattern, intentionally breaking the usual order to create a more dynamic look. This might mean grouping more pillows on one side of the bed or layering different sizes and shapes in a way that feels balanced yet unexpected. This approach works particularly well in contemporary or eclectic spaces, where a bit of visual surprise can add character and charm.

Conclusion

Pillow shams are more than just decorative covers—they’re versatile design tools that can transform the look and feel of your bedroom with minimal effort. Whether you prefer the clean lines of stacked pillows, the classic elegance of layered arrangements, or the creative flair of an asymmetrical setup, there’s a styling option that suits your personal taste and home decor. By understanding the purpose and possibilities of pillow shams, you can elevate your bedding to new levels of comfort and style, making your bed not just a place to sleep, but a true centerpiece of your space.