What is a Sham? A Guide to Decorative Pillow Shams

Discover the world of decorative pillow shams! Learn what is a sham, how to use them, different sizes available, and creative ways to incorporate shams into your bedroom decor. Find out how pillow shams differ from regular pillowcases and why they’re a must-have addition to your bedding ensemble.

What is a Sham?

When you first see it, a sham might look like a fancy cover for your bed pillow. Wondering what a sham is? It’s basically a decorative pillow cover. However, its true essence goes beyond this simplistic definition. A sham is a decorative pillow case designed to elevate the appearance of your bedding while providing versatility and style. Unlike regular pillowcases, shams are meant to be both functional and aesthetic.

How to Use a Sham

Pillow shams are designed to effortlessly transform standard-sized pillow fills into stylish accessories for your bedding ensemble. They typically feature a hidden opening at the back, often secured with a zipper or buttons, creating a seamless appearance. While shams can be used for sleeping, they shine as decorative pieces during the day. Placed behind regular pillows, shams offer extra support when sitting up in bed and enhance the overall look of your sleeping space.

Sham Sizes

Pillow shams come in various sizes to accommodate different pillow dimensions and create a balanced arrangement on your bed. The most common sham sizes are:

• Standard Shams (26″ x 20″)
• King Shams (36″ x 20″)
• Euro Shams (26″ x 26″)

Decorating with Shams

Crafting a well-designed home involves paying attention to even the smallest decorative elements. Pillow shams play a crucial role in this process. Their intricate designs and fabric choices allow you to tie together your bedding with the overall theme of your room. You can match shams with your other bedding components to create a cohesive and visually pleasing arrangement.

Matching Your Shams with Other Bedding

Integrating shams into your bedding arrangement requires a thoughtful approach. You can choose shams that complement the colors, patterns, and textures of your sheets, comforter, and other decorative pillows. This coordination adds depth and personality to your bed while showcasing your decorating prowess.

Farmhouse Shams

Farmhouse shams encapsulate the charm of rustic simplicity and timeless elegance. Inspired by the cozy aesthetics of farmhouse-style living, these shams often feature classic patterns, textured fabrics, and a muted color palette that evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. Whether adorned with subtle stripes, delicate florals, or distressed prints, farmhouse shams effortlessly bring the inviting essence of country living to your bedroom decor. Their ability to blend seamlessly with both traditional and modern design elements makes them a versatile choice for those seeking to infuse their space with a touch of vintage-inspired character and a hint of rural serenity.

Country Style Shams

Country style shams exude a charming and pastoral ambiance that captures the essence of rural living. With a focus on embracing nature and simplicity, these shams often showcase earthy tones, gingham checks, and patchwork designs reminiscent of traditional countryside aesthetics. The inviting textures and quaint patterns found in country style shams create an atmosphere of coziness and nostalgia, inviting you to relax and unwind in a space that feels like a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether placed in a cozy cottage bedroom or a farmhouse-inspired retreat, country style shams effortlessly evoke a sense of comfort and authenticity, celebrating the beauty of nature and the warmth of home.

Using Shams as Throw Pillows

Pillow shams are versatile pieces that extend beyond the realm of bedding. If you have extra shams or want to repurpose them, consider using them as throw pillows in other areas of your home. Placed on couches, chairs, or benches, shams can add a touch of elegance and comfort to various living spaces.

The Difference Between a Pillow Case & Pillow Sham

While both pillowcases and pillow shams serve the purpose of covering pillows, they differ in their primary functions. A pillowcase focuses on maintaining pillow cleanliness and comfort, often having an open end for easy removal. In contrast, a pillow sham emphasizes aesthetics and decoration. Its hidden closures keep the focus on its design while adding a layer of style to your bedding.

Why Should I Use a Pillow Sham?

If you’re seeking a simple yet effective way to infuse your bedding with personality and color, pillow shams are the answer. They offer an effortless means of incorporating unique design elements into your bedroom. Furthermore, shams provide extra support when you’re lounging or reading in bed, ensuring both comfort and style.

When to Use a Sham

Pillow shams are perfect for those who wish to enhance the visual appeal of their bed without sacrificing comfort. They are ideal for transforming ordinary pillows into decorative pieces, adding flair to your bedroom decor. While you can sleep on them like regular pillowcases, shams are often removed from the bed or placed behind other pillows during sleep. This not only maintains their beauty but also provides flexibility for cleaning and replacement.

In conclusion, a sham is more than just an embellished pillow cover; it’s a versatile accessory that effortlessly combines aesthetics with functionality. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your bedroom or infuse your living spaces with elegance, pillow shams offer an accessible and stylish solution. Their unique designs, sizes, and compatibility with various bedding components make them an indispensable addition to any home decorator’s toolkit. So, why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your bedding with the artful touch of a decorative pillow sham?