Dreamy Layers: 5 Creative Steps to Style Your Bed Like a Pro
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As the main centerpiece of your bedroom, your bed deserves to shine like the star of the show. Styling it might seem tricky, but the key lies in layering. There’s no need to splurge on the most expensive pillows or luxurious throws to create a bed that looks straight out of a design magazine. Instead, focus on quality pieces and arrange them thoughtfully. Follow these 5 creative steps, and you’ll be able to style your bed into such a beautiful masterpiece, you might hesitate to mess it up by getting in!
Start with a Quality Base
Start with a quality base by choosing sheets that elevate both style and comfort. Sheets aren’t just an afterthought in bed styling—they create the foundation for a look that feels complete without overpowering the room. Opt for pure cotton sheets with a high thread count to ensure lasting quality and a luxurious feel. Neutral or soft tones work best, providing a timeless look that complements any bedding layers you add. While sheets don’t need to look overly matched, investing in quality is always worth it, as quality bedding leads to quality sleep.
Layer on a Doona or Quilt
A doona or quilt provides warmth and can be the main feature of your bed. Fold down the top of the doona or quilt just below the pillows to create a welcoming, layered effect. For those who love variety, a reversible doona cover is a great choice. It gives you two looks in one—perfect for switching things up or creating contrast when you fold the top down. If you’re aiming for a classic, luxurious feel, consider a white-on-white theme. Even with a reversible cover, you can keep it subtle by choosing soft stripes or tiny dots on one side and a solid neutral on the other.
Add a Coverlet
The coverlet is the third layer in bed styling, added on top of the doona to give your bed a finished and stylish look. Made from soft, breathable materials like cotton, coverlet bedspreads are comfortable to use directly against the skin, which is perfect for warmer months when you may prefer to use it on its own.
If you decide to use it as a standalone layer, make sure the coverlet is large enough to fully cover your mattress, giving you just the right coverage for a comfortable sleep. When colder weather sets in, you can layer a doona underneath for added warmth and cosiness. Some coverlets even come with the option to be filled with a doona, offering extra warmth without the bulk of a traditional quilt.
Choosing the right coverlet involves selecting one in the correct size for your bed. Typically, coverlets come in standard sizes such as Twin, Queen, and King, so make sure to match it with your mattress dimensions. A well-fitted coverlet should be long enough to drape over the top of the bed, with just enough extra fabric to hang down the sides, creating an elegant and tailored look.
Coverlet bedspreads also offer a great opportunity to add colour and style to your bed. For a clean, classic look, a white coverlet always works well, creating a fresh, crisp aesthetic. If you’re looking to bring in a bit more personality, consider coverlets in colours like navy, green, or dusty pink for a chic pop that still feels sophisticated. For a playful touch, patterned coverlets with designs such as palm trees, flowers, birds, or botanicals add visual interest and can instantly liven up the space.
To create a cohesive look, pair your coverlet with matching pillowcases. Coordinating the coverlet and pillowcases brings harmony to the bed design, whether you choose a solid colour or a vibrant pattern. Overall, a well-chosen coverlet adds style, comfort, and flexibility to your bed, making it easy to switch up the look and warmth level as the seasons change.
Drape a Throw Blanket
To add extra texture and style to your bed, drape a throw blanket over the end. While the exact type of throw is up to you, it’s essential to avoid folding it too precisely. A neatly folded throw at the foot of a large king-size bed can look out of place—nothing is sadder than a throw left sitting all alone. Instead, let it drape casually over the corner for a relaxed, carefree look. Mixing two throws with different colours and textures can create an interesting, layered effect, adding depth and personality to your bed’s overall design.
Pile on the Pillows and Cushions
Piling on pillows and decorative cushions is a great way to add depth and comfort to your bed. Start with your sleeping pillows—two for a single or double bed, and three for a king-size bed—arranged flat against the headboard. Next, layer in decorative cushions. You can use two or three medium-sized cushions in front of the sleeping pillows, placing them neatly or at varying heights for visual interest. Finally, add smaller accent cushions at the centre or to one side for an extra touch of style.
When selecting pillows and cushions, don’t shy away from mixing textures and colours. Velvets, linens, and cottons in complementary shades or patterns work beautifully together, creating a cosy yet stylish vibe. Keep the arrangement soft and inviting, ensuring your bed looks both luxurious and comfortable.