What Is Shams In Bedding

What Is Shams In Bedding?

In the realm of bedding, the term "shams" might sound unfamiliar to some. While often mistaken for pillowcases, shams are distinct decorative elements that elevate the aesthetic appeal of a bed. Shams are essentially decorative pillow covers that add a touch of elegance, color, and texture to your bedroom. They are typically used on top of decorative pillows, providing a polished finishing touch to the bed's overall look.

Understanding Shams: More Than Just Pillowcases

Shams are not merely pillowcases, despite their resemblance. Unlike pillowcases that are purely functional, shams are primarily decorative, enhancing the visual appeal of a bed. While they can be used to cover pillows for hygiene purposes, their primary role is to add style and personality to the bedding ensemble. Shams are available in a wide range of materials, patterns, colors, and sizes, allowing for endless customization options to complement any design aesthetic.

Key Differences Between Shams and Pillowcases:

Several key differences distinguish shams from pillowcases:

Function: Pillowcases serve a practical purpose, protecting pillows from dirt and sweat. Shams prioritize aesthetics, enhancing the visual appeal of a bed.
Material: While both can be made from various fabrics, pillowcases are often crafted from cotton or linen for practicality, while shams embrace a wider array of materials, including silk, velvet, and even faux fur, to create a luxurious and decorative effect.
Closure: Pillowcases typically have an envelope closure, while shams may feature various closures, such as buttons, zippers, or hidden closures, adding to their decorative appeal.
Size: Shams are typically larger than pillowcases to accommodate decorative pillows, often exceeding the standard pillow size to create a more prominent and visually impactful display.
Style: Shams come in a wide variety of styles, from simple and understated to intricate and ornate, allowing homeowners to express their personal style and complement their overall bedding theme.

Types of Shams and Their Uses:

Shams can be categorized based on their size, material, and style. Some common types include:

Euro Shams: These large shams measure approximately 26 inches by 26 inches and are often placed behind the head pillows for a luxurious and layered look.
King Shams: These are smaller than Euro shams and are typically used to cover standard king-sized pillows.
Queen Shams: Similar in size to King Shams but designed for queen-sized pillows.
Standard Shams: These are the most common size, ideal for covering decorative pillows of standard size.
Throw Shams: Smaller than standard shams, throw shams are perfect for adding a touch of color and pattern to a bed or sofa.

Benefits of Using Shams in Bedding:

Shams offer numerous benefits beyond their decorative appeal:

Enhance Aesthetics: Shams elevate the visual appeal of a bed, transforming a simple bedding ensemble into a sophisticated and inviting space.
Create a Focal Point: Shams, particularly those with intricate designs or bold colors, serve as a focal point on the bed, drawing attention and adding visual interest.
Add Texture and Dimension: Different materials and patterns used for shams can introduce texture and dimension to the overall bedding scheme, creating a more layered and sophisticated aesthetic.
Reflect Personal Style: Shams provide a platform for expressing personal style and complementing the overall décor of the bedroom.
Easy to Switch Out: Shams are relatively easy to switch out compared to entire bedding sets. This allows for quick and cost-effective changes to the bedroom's ambiance and décor.

In conclusion, shams are essential decorative elements that elevate the visual appeal of a bed. They offer a wide array of styles, materials, and sizes, allowing for endless customization options to match any design aesthetic. By incorporating shams into your bedding ensemble, you can enhance the overall look of your bedroom, creating a sophisticated, inviting, and uniquely personalized space.