Decorating or redecorating a bedroom is a time consuming and frustrating experience. Knowing what we want and finding the perfect bedding ensemble isn’t always a perfect fit. Today, consumers have more bedding choices other than the traditional quilts and bedspreads of yesteryear. Textile companies have answered the needs and desires of consumers by creating comforters in various thicknesses and also introduced Matelasse Coverlets and Duvet Covers in diverse styles, assorted fabrics, and color ranges. We see beautiful luxury, designer bedding collections in magazines and day dream a moment before discarding them as “too expensive.” But when given the facts it’s easy to see that luxury bedding and linens are actually a better return on our investment due in part by manufacturers crafting bedding geared towards home owners who simply want the best available. Bedding that highlights the room, feels fantastic and will hold up to everyday use throughout the seasons, surpass our expectations on comfort and provide years of enjoyment. While it is true that quality bedding can be purchased off store shelves, the savings are minimal yet comfort, quality, selection and value may be compromised.

Bedrooms are used today for more than just sleeping. It’s a quiet retreat where we can curl up with a good book, look through magazines, work, watch television, or simply have fun, playing and spending time with family. Bedroom décor and all that’s within can and does affect our mood. Quality fabrics, rich colors, textures and softness provide us with a comfortable place where we can peacefully sleep and wake up refreshed.

In order to achieve the perfect bedroom important elements need to be considered; such as creating a bedroom that feels as good as it looks, knowing what style we want to accomplish, taking into account what activities will take place, and of course one’s budget.

Taking time to think about colors that make you feel good and complements other furniture in the bedroom should be a prerequisite to purchasing designer bedding. Keeping an open mind on the use of color often times has a pleasant ending. While you may dislike green using it in subtle shades or hues can enhance the other furnishings in your room and pull the look together. Flores, stripes and checks with greens, tans and burgundy will give a country feel, while various shades of blue, white and other soft colors merged with large print floras and stripes will give your bedroom a seaside touch. Bold colors and geometric shapes are a good choice for a modern flair while clean lines create a contemporary theme.
For couples, decorating a bedroom together can be a major issue, she wants something with flowers and he wants a solid bedspread, after all it’s just a bed, a place to sleep. In order for this to work, compromises need to be made to help ensure both individual style choices interconnect seamlessly. Start by deciding on a color palette that is suitable for both. Once this issue has been resolved consider using a duvet with a simple pattern, add a Matelasse Coverlet, often a solid colored tone-on-tone cover with texture. To satisfy her desires pull the look together by using decorative pillows in various sizes, shapes, fabric prints and textures, after all…it’s the attention to detail and all the decorative touches that matter most.

A Simple Explanation of Thread Count

One of the biggest mistakes people make when purchasing luxury bedding and linens is buying solely on thread count. However, what you may not understand about thread count may lead to disappointment. So what exactly is thread count? Thread count is simply how many threads (warp) lengthwise and (weft) widthwise are woven into one square inch. While many retailers advertise high thread count linens at wonderful prices your expectations may not be met when the softness and quality are not found. A thread count of 200 can be a better purchase over a 600 count when quality grade fabrics, a better finishing process and a low weave count is used (one thread woven over one thread is better than two threads woven over two threads). Not only will the linens have a softer feel they will also last longer making you a happy consumer.

Once reserved for royalty or the very rich, luxury bedding is one of those delightful pleasures in life that is progressively becoming a must-have. We’ve all seen the rise of popularity with Egyptian cotton sheets over the years and now it seems that luxury bedding is one of those items that people just can’t imagine being without. Each year manufacturers are showing up at the home textile shows to display new collections. Although some trends in color or design appear, it’s the classics or soon to be classics that survive. Today’s consumer wants bedding that is comfortable, classic, durable, and will withstand the changes in trends. Neutral colors and delicate embroidery in high thread count sheeting is in high demand. Silk, linen, and Egyptian cotton fabrics are top choices for bedding fabrics that are extremely soft and beautiful.

Adding to or changing your luxury bedding is a great way to change the look of your room without changing everything. It’s much easier to change your look if you start with neutrals. Use neutral colors such as white, ivory, taupe, or green and soft details when selecting sheets and bed skirts. We are no longer limited by choices. Most manufacturers offer the same color palette for coordinating collections that can be mixed and matched. If you don’t find exactly what you want, most manufacturers will customize your bedding so you can get the best fit and colors of your choosing. Just remember that anything that is special ordered or custom made requires on average a 6-week wait, but it is worth it.

Not everything has to match. Select different pieces for your duvet cover and shams to instantly create a new look. Layering with coverlets and throws is great way to add texture to the room. Many manufacturers are starting to include these pieces in their bedding collections. You also have the option of coordinating coverlets and throws in the same colors, but different designs, textures, or weaves for added appeal.

If you find a fabric or bedding design that appeals to you, you don’t have to purchase an entire ensemble. Keep your main bedding neutral and purchase decorative pillows in your favorite fabrics to add a touch of color or pattern for a different look or to change with the seasons. This is a creative and easy way to showcase those fabrics you love. Pillows can be purchased or custom made to your specifications and style. Purchase several so they can be easily changed at whim.

If you have many pieces of furniture in the room, consider an Upholstered headboard in coordinating fabrics to freshen your decor and soften the room. Adding pillows in the same fabric will complete the look. Most luxury bedding manufacturers offer fabric by the yard so that you can customize your window treatments and accessories.

Your bedroom is your retreat, so spice it up or add soothing elements to please your senses. Don’t necessarily follow trends. Instead, follow your instincts and do what makes you happy and content.