Putting together a gorgeous bed ensemble can be overwhelming — and more pricey. However, a couple of choice thoughtful or purchases uses of pieces you already own can easily result in a gorgeously dressed bed. Obviously, just getting through the definitions of all the choices is the very first hurdle: bedspread, coverlet, quilt, duvet, comforter, blanket — what do they all mean, what do you use what and how? Let us find out!
Alexander Johnson Photography
Bedspread. A bedspread is the name given to basically all pre-filled bed covers intended for use as the top layer on a bed. Comforters, quilts and coverlets fall into that category. They could be both decorative and warming, thick or lighter weight, in a variety of fabric. They are generally used independently, with only a sheet and some other blankets you need under, but they can be layered for decorative purposes.
Kim Nunn
Comforter. Thick and (sometimes) quilted, a comforter is different from a quilt in that colors are generally dyed and patterns are not embroidered. Comforters are full of layers of material such as lace (a synthetic fiber) down feathers, silk or wool. The loft (thickness) of this filling determines the burden as well as the level of insulation.
Comforters are stitched or quilted to secure the filling and make sure that it’s evenly distributed. They’re intended to function as bedspread, sitting together with sheets, but those who want to produce a layered appearance ought to go ahead and take action. There are not any cardinal rules to be broken in bedding!
Teton Heritage Builders
Quilt. Traditionally composed of 3 layers of fiber, quilts consist of a woven fabric shirt, a layer of batting and a woven spine, all stitched together in decorative patterns. Different from other kinds of bed covers because they are generally pieced together with many pieces of fabric, quilts are sometimes found with a single piece of cloth on the top (a whole-cloth quilt).
There are a lot of classic designs and traditions concerning the design and features of quilts. Many are given or made to mark important life events such as marriage, the birth of a child, a relative leaving house, and graduations.
Kelley & Company Home
Modern quilts are not always intended for use as bedding, and may be used as throws, wall hangings, table runners or tablecloths.
Jute Interior Design
Duvet and pay. A duvet is essentially a soft flat bag filled with feathers, down or a synthetic option. It is recommended that duvets are added into a detachable cover, much like a pillow and pillow case. Duvets and duvet covers are all designed to be used independently (with no sheets) because the insert can be removed and the outside “bag” can be laundered, but many people use them with sheets anyway.
Many people like duvets because they reduce the complexity of earning a bed, since it’s a single covering rather than the combination of bed sheets, blankets, quilts and other bed covers.
Rough Linen
Linen duvet covers such as these made and marketed by member Tricia Rose are particularly dreamy, creating a wrinkled “messiness” that looks intimate and carefree.
Duvet covers often come with the choice of matching shams, but mixing it is an easy means to produce a gorgeous bed that resembles it had been easily chucked together.
Restoration Hardware
Stonewashed Framed Belgian Linen Bedding – $59
Restoration Hardware has luxury linen bedding in more approachable prices than some of the higher-end companies. Washing and drying sheet bedding makes this breathable textile even softer and more supple.
Mark English Architects, AIA
Coverlet. A coverlet is a lightweight, non-reversible bedspread that is usually either woven or weathered. Classically designed as a decorative coating to go over thicker bedspreads, coverlets often have a thin layer of batting, making them appropriate for use as a stand-alone bed covering, based on the weight. They can also be used as throws on a bed or couch.
Due to their size and decorative quality, they’re not designed to attain a pillow tuck, as a few bedspreads are. A coverlet often has coordinating shams, but it’s most certainly not necessary to match. The design in this photo demonstrates how a simple setup with various textures could be utterly magnificent and fuss-free.
Peacock Alley Design Studio
Othello Collection – $80
Among my all-time favorite coverlets is Othello, from Peacock Alley. It comes in 3 colors and the matelasse design is super versatile, looking good on both formal, tailored beds as well as more laid-back looks, either as a standalone textile or among a more layered makeup. And, it is machine washable, to boot.
Schoolhouse Electric
Brahms Mount Cotton Herringbone Twist – $235
Throw blankets and bed scarves. These include color, texture (or both) along with casual coziness when tossed haphazardly (but attractively) on the bed.
Within this design, a coverlet is wrapped over a duvet and duvet cover to tame the discoloration that is inevitable. A throw in the end of the bed adds just enough texture and an additional coating to make the composition interesting and inviting.
Tobi Fairley Interior Design
If your duvet cover is the showstopper, reverse the norm and use it along with your coverlet.
Next: More amazing bedroom design guides