Pillow Shams & How to Use Them
Pillow shams are a stylish and practical addition to any home decor, offering a simple yet impactful way to elevate your living spaces. To help you add comfort and style to any space, we've pulled together a helpful guide to pillow shams. Whether you're looking to refresh your bedroom or add a decorative touch to other areas, our pillow shams provide the perfect solution.
Understanding Pillow Shams
Pillow shams are coverings designed to encase your pillows, transforming them from mere functional items to stylish accents. Unlike standard pillowcases, which are primarily intended for sleeping, pillow shams add a layer of sophistication to your bedding ensemble. The term "sham" dates back to the 18th century when it was used to describe something that was a decorative facade, which perfectly encapsulates the purpose of pillow shams today.
Traditionally, pillow shams were used to cover pillows that were placed on top of bedding during the day to create a polished look. Over time, their use has expanded beyond the bedroom, making them versatile decorative elements throughout the home.
Types of Comphy Pillow Shams
Pillow shams come in various sizes and styles, each serving a unique purpose in home decor. Understanding the different types can help you choose the best options for your space. Comphy offers both European and regular pillow shams, providing versatile solutions for all your decorating needs. Let's explore the characteristics and uses of these two popular types of pillow shams.
European Pillow Shams
European pillow shams, also known as Euro shams, are typically larger than standard shams. Their generous size makes them perfect for creating a plush, layered look on your bed. They are often placed behind standard pillows to provide a backdrop that adds depth and dimension to your bedding.
Quilted Designs: Many European pillow shams feature quilted designs, which add texture and visual interest. Quilting not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a layer of softness and comfort.
Comphy's SoftSpa™ Euro Pillow Sham Set is specifically made for 26” x 26” Euro-sized decorative pillows, these shams offer both style and comfort. Quilted in 2” squares for an attractive texture, they are constructed with our SoftPhiber™ microfiber fabric for a luxurious feel and come in a variety of colors to perfectly accent your decor.
Regular Pillow Shams
Regular pillow shams are designed to fit standard, queen, or king-sized pillows. They are typically used to cover the pillows you sleep on, adding a decorative touch that complements the rest of your bedding. Unlike pillowcases, shams often have more elaborate designs, such as embroidery, ruffles, or piping, which make them stand out.
Comphy’s SoftSpa™ Pillow Sham Set bring a smart pop of texture and color to your bed without being overwhelming. Designed to fit snugly over standard pillows, these shams (set of two) feature a 1” quilted pattern of our famously soft SoftPhiber™ microfiber fabric in a clean and classic design, available in a wide variety of colors to add just the right touch.
Differences Between Shams and Pillow Cases
While both pillow shams and pillow cases serve to cover pillows, their purposes and designs are distinctly different. Here are some key differences:
Purpose:
- Pillow cases: Primarily designed for sleeping, pillow cases provide a soft, clean surface to rest your head on. They are functional and essential for hygiene, as they protect your pillow from sweat, oils, and dirt.
- Pillow Shams: These are decorative covers used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedding. Shams transform ordinary pillows into stylish accents that complete the look of your bedroom.
Design:
- Pillow cases: Typically feature a simple, straightforward design with an open end or a flap closure. They are often plain or subtly decorated to match the bed sheets.
- Pillow Shams: Often more elaborate, featuring designs such as embroidery, ruffles, piping, or quilting. Shams usually have an envelope closure at the back or a hidden zipper to completely encase the pillow.
Usage:
- Pillow cases: Meant to be used daily and are often part of a matching bed sheet set. They are easy to remove and wash regularly.
- Pillow Shams: Primarily used for decorative purposes, placed on the bed during the day and removed before sleeping. They can also be used in other areas of the home, like on couches or armchairs, for added decor.
Understanding these differences will help you utilize both pillowcases and pillow shams effectively, enhancing both the functionality and beauty of your home decor.
Innovative Uses of Pillow Shams
Pillow shams aren't just for the bedroom. Here are some creative ways to use them around your home:
- DIY Seating Areas: Create cozy seating areas by using pillow shams as cushions for benches or window seats. The decorative designs can add a touch of elegance and comfort, making these spaces more inviting.
- Dining Space Accents: Use pillow shams as chair cushions or decorative accents in your dining area. They can add color and texture to your dining chairs, making your mealtime experience more stylish and comfortable.
- Seasonal Decor Changes: Pillow shams are an easy way to refresh your decor with the changing seasons. Swap out shams in different colors and patterns to reflect the mood of each season. For example, use bright, floral designs in the spring and cozy, warm tones in the winter.
How to Pick the Right Sham
Choosing the right pillow sham involves considering several factors, including color, texture, and where you plan to use it. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Color and Pattern: Select colors and patterns that complement your existing decor. Neutral tones are versatile and can blend seamlessly with various styles and colors.
- Texture: Consider the texture of the shams and how they will feel and look in your space. Quilted or embroidered designs add depth and interest, while smooth, silky fabrics offer a more refined and elegant appearance.
- Intended Use: Think about where you will be using the shams. For the bedroom, opt for shams that match or complement your bedding. For other areas of the home, choose designs that enhance the existing decor.
Comphy Pillow Shams Reviews
We at Coop take pride in offering the best products available for our customers. Currently, Comphy is offered in 97% of Forbes 5-Star spas and resorts, and you can have that level of quality in your own home.
Our pillow shams are designed to add a pop of texture and comfort to your spaces, made with our SoftPhiber fabric that is as soft as it is sustainable.
"Really Comphy !
Pillow shams tick all the boxes: decorative, extremely soft & usable, hold up great wash after wash, no ironing needed!"
- - Patricia M., verified buyer.
Coop Sleep Good’s Comphy pillow shams are a versatile and beautiful addition to any home. Whether you're looking to enhance your bedroom decor or find new ways to accessorize other areas of your home, these shams offer endless possibilities. Experiment with different styles, colors, and textures to create a look that reflects your personal taste and enhances your living spaces.
Pillow Shams FAQs
Q: How to use pillow shams?
A: Pillow shams can be used to decorate your bed by placing them behind your regular sleeping pillows or incorporating them into other areas of your home, such as seating areas and dining spaces, to add a touch of elegance and comfort.
Q: What size pillow for a Euro sham?
A: Euro shams typically measure 26 x 26 inches and require a pillow of the same size to fill them properly.
Q: Do you sleep on pillow shams?
A: While you can sleep on pillow shams, they are primarily designed for decorative purposes. Many people remove them before sleeping to keep them looking fresh and clean.