7 Things to Keep in Mind When Styling a Bed
Extra long lie-ins permitted.
Styling a bed is a menial thing that makes a mountain of difference. That's why we've taken the guesswork out of how to style a bed to curate this list of ideas. Keep reading for inspiration.
1. Start with a Strong Foundation
Before you begin styling a bed, start by investing in a top-quality mattress. On average people spend one-third of their lives in bed, so it's important to choose a mattress that's comfortable and well made. Next, you're going to want to grab a plush comforter or duvet insert.
Now that you have your mattress and duvet sorted, invest in white or neutral-coloured sheets and pillowcases. When you make the bed, place the flat sheet upside down. This ensures that the softness surrounds you when you get in bed and that the finished side is on the outside when you fold the sheets back.
Try to keep things light with your duvet cover as too many colours can become overwhelming. Stick to simple colours like ivory, almond and ash so that you can layer in patterns later on.
Tip: For hotel-style plushness, choose a duvet cover that is one size smaller than your duvet.
3. Cosy up to Layers
Cosiness shouldn't be limited by season. When layering your bed, place a second blanket, quilt or bedspread on top of your duvet. Then fold whatever you've laid down in half so that you can still see the bottom of the duvet. Alternatively, try folding the top blanket into thirds at the foot of your bed. On colder winter nights, sleep under both layers for extra warmth. When temperatures start to rise, leave that layer at the foot of your bed.
For a simple update, opt for square aka European pillows. When styling a bed, these pillows help to add height. You'll need three to fit across a king bed. If you're going for a modern look, stack your pillows vertically with the largest one at the bottom of the pile.
To enhance your bed's design, try adding a few unique accent pillows or cushions. Three pillows seems to be the sweet spot, but in reality you can add as many as you want. Just keep in mind how many pillows you'll want to pull off the bed each night. For a bohemian look, opt for three completely different pillows. Or choose two pillows in the same size and colour and place one smaller pillow in front. Try out a rectangular pillow for an elevated twist.
For the easiest pillow layering trick, simply match your larger, square-shaped pillows with your duvet cover and your everyday sleeping pillows with your sheet set. Prop the square pillows in the back, place your day-to-day pillows up front - and you're good to go. This is a great look for a guest bedroom as it helps create a put-together look with very little effort.
Patterned textiles are a great and easy way to break up all-white bedding. Pick out sheets with a broken-line or geometric pattern, then throw your white duvet on top. When you pull the covers back, that little bit of pattern makes for a cosy and surprising statement. To take layering a bed up a notch by placing a throw or blanket in the same colour scheme, but this time incorporate a different pattern on the bottom third of your bed.
Think organic: What colours inspire you? Which colours help you feel most relaxed? Stick to one shade, like gray, for a monochromatic look and layer your bed with shades of ash, slate and charcoal.
Easiest
Still trying to figure out how to style a bed so that it stays relevant all year round? Keep it simple and stick to all white. This is the easiest way to layer a bed like a pro, since you can add as many layers as you like and it'll still look crisp.
Don't forget about headboards when it comes to styling your bed. Whether you lean toward a wooden or tufted option, a headboard is a great way to add an extra layer of coziness and interest. If you want to get creative, hang a large piece of art or a floating shelf above the bed instead.
The last thing on your to-do list when styling a bed - curate your surroundings. Place a throw blanket at the foot of the bed for a nice flourish. Keep decor and furniture minimal. Think: a purposeful nightstand that gives you just enough space for a charger, glass of water or a plant or flowers. If you love to read in bed, opt for a table lamp. If you want to keep your bedside table bare, consider installing twin wall sconces or pendant lights. For a convenient touch, add a decorative tray for that cosy Sunday morning coffee and good read.
Tip: Enjoyed this article? Then why not read:
- Choosing the Best Bed for Your Home
- Choosing the Perfect Pillow Types
- Which Bedding Suits Which Season?

