Not Just a Pillowcase! Learn All About Pillow Shams

Have you ever noticed those decorative pillow covers on hotel beds and wondered what their purpose was? Unlike regular pillowcases used for sleeping on, these stylish accessories are actually called pillow shams. While they may seem purely decorative, pillow shams serve important functions beyond just looking pretty on the bed.

We'll explore what exactly they are, how they differ from regular pillowcases, the different sizes and materials available, and creative ways to use them in your home decor. We'll also touch on some surprising health benefits certain pillow shams can offer. So if you've ever been curious about those embellished pillow covers, read on to learn all about the wonderful world of pillow shams!

What Exactly is a Pillow Sham?

A pillow sham is a decorative covering specifically designed to fit over a pillow. Rather than being intended for sleeping directly on, a sham's purpose is to provide aesthetic appeal. Shams are constructed from thicker, more embellished materials than regular pillowcases. Common decorative elements include ruffles, trims, embroidery, patterns, and textures.

Shams slip over pillow inserts to protect them from dirt, oils, and wear from daily use. The sham also brings visual interest to the pillow through colors, designs, and ornate accents. So while they aren't meant for actual sleeping, pillow shams help pillows look pristine and attractive when used decoratively.

Key Differences From Pillowcases

There are a few key distinctions between pillow shams and regular pillowcases. Here are some of the main differences:

• Pillow shams feature thicker fabric and embellished materials, whereas standard pillowcases use basic cotton or polyester fabrics.
• Shams incorporate decorative elements like ruffles, embroidery, or trims that are absent from plain pillowcases.
• The focus of a sham is visual appeal, while pillowcases are about function and sleep comfort.
• Shams tend to be more expensive than regular pillowcases due to their ornate materials.
• Pillowcases come in standard sizes, but shams sizes match the actual pillow dimensions.

In summary, pillow shams provide decorative flair that pillowcases lack. Their enriched materials and accents set them apart from the humbler pillowcase.

Available Pillow Sham Sizes

Pillow shams come in a variety of sizes to coordinate with different pillow dimensions. Common sizes include:

• Standard: 20" x 26"
• Queen: 20" x 30"
• King: 20" x 36"
• Euro: 26" x 26"
• Boudoir: 12" x 16"

When purchasing pillow shams, be sure to get the size that matches your actual pillow measurements. Shams are meant to fit snugly over the insert for a tidy, tailored look.

Common Pillow Sham Materials

Pillow shams can be constructed from a range of fabrics, each imparting a different aesthetic:

• Cotton: Breathable and durable; provides a casual, relaxed look.
• Linen: Lightweight and textured; gives a natural, breezy feel.
• Velvet: Luxuriously soft with a lustrous sheen; creates an elegant impression.
• Satin: Smooth and shiny; evokes a glamorous, sophisticated mood.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to fabric choice for shams. Select materials aligning with the visual style you wish to achieve. Mix and match textures and sheens for added depth and interest.

Pillow Sham Closure Types

Pillow shams secure around the back of the pillow through different closure methods. The most common types include:

• Envelope: Overlapping fabric flaps tuck into the back; convenient and secure.
• Zippered: A zipper runs along the sham's back seam for easy on/off.
• Button/Flap: Buttons or snaps close a folding fabric flap; traditional looking.
• Hidden Magnetic: Inside magnets keep the sham closed invisibly; no exterior closures.

Envelope and zippered closures are likely the most widely used due to their simple functionality. However, part of a sham's charm can come from ornate back closures like ties, buttons, or toggles. Choose the closure type that best suits your sham's style.

Using Pillow Shams Decoratively

So how does one actually decorate with pillow shams? Here are some tips for seamlessly incorporating shams into your bedroom or living space:

• Use a pair of matching shams as a base layer at the head of the bed. This creates a polished starting point.
• Build up additional decorative pillows on top of the shams in coordinating colors and patterns.
• Try mixing sham textures and designs for visual interest. For example, pair a velvet sham with a contrasting embroidered one.
• Choose shams to complement your existing decor. Designs that reflect other accents will pull the whole room together.

Get creative with different sham combinations to develop your own unique layered style. The arrangements can be changed out with the seasons or your mood.

Health Benefits of Some Pillow Shams

For some people, pillow shams can provide benefits beyond just looking attractive. Certain shams feature details that promote relaxation and better sleep:

• Some shams contain inner materials like lavender or chamomile, which impart calming aromas.
• The soothing scents of these shams can promote relaxation and sleep.
• These types of shams may help those suffering from insomnia or sleep disorders.

The added aromatherapy qualities bring an extra dimension to pillow shams. Look for these calming-infused shams if you want added relaxation and sleep hygiene.

Versatility Beyond the Bedroom

Pillow shams aren't just reserved for bed pillows--they can add ornamental flair to household decor as well. Creative ways to use shams include:

• Adorning accent pillows on ottomans or bench seats.
• Providing a pop of color and texture to armchair or sofa pillows.
• Coordinating shams on couch pillows to match those on the bed.
• Arranging shams on entryway benches or patio furniture cushions.

Repurposing shams throughout your home allows their eye-catching style to elevate the whole space. Use them wherever you want to inject visual interest.

Eco-Friendly Sham Materials

For those concerned about environmental impact, there are earth-friendly sham options:

• Organic cotton shams are grown sustainably without toxic pesticides.
• Bamboo and recycled polyester shams reduce landfill waste.
• These eco-materials provide breathability and hypoallergenic properties.
• Eco-shams are ideal for health-conscious and environmentally-minded consumers.

Green shams enable you to decorate in an environmentally responsible way. Their renewable fabrics also offer comfort benefits.

Customization Options

For a truly one-of-a-kind statement piece, customized shams are an option:

• Some retailers allow you to design your own sham with preferred fabrics and colors.
• Add meaningful embellishments or monogramming for a personal touch.
• Digitally printed custom graphics can reflect your unique tastes.
• Custom shams inject originality, character, and flair into bedroom decor.

Personalized shams tailor your bedding to your specific vision. Create shams as unique as you are!

Pillow shams exemplify decorative bedding at its best. With plush fabrics, dazzling embellishments, and stand-out designs, shams take ordinary pillows from basic to beautiful. They allow self-expression through countless customization options. We learned shams have added versatility too--uses beyond blanketting the bed. Even some health advantages can come from relaxing botanical shams.

Hopefully this deep dive shed light on why pillow shams deserve recognition. They work hard to guard pillows, enrich aesthetics, and even help us sleep better. So next time you see those fanciful pillow covers, appreciate all the purpose and poshness they provide.