Pillowcases & Shams

Discover the Best Pillowcases & Shams: Linen, Velvet, and Designer Covers for Every Bedroom

Why pillowcases and shams matter more than you think

Pillowcases and shams are the finishing touches that can make a bedroom feel intentional, cozy, and Instagram-ready — and they do more than just look pretty. They protect your pillows, add texture, define color palettes, and can even affect how you sleep by changing temperature and skin friction. Think of them as the jewelry for your bed: small, but transformative.

Meet the popular designs in this roundup

From Scandi linen pieces to plush velvet covers and bold prints from well-known designers, there’s a pillowcase to suit every style. This article highlights a curated list of products and explores what makes each one special — including sizes in inches so you know exactly what will fit your cushions and pillows.

Linen pillowcases — Scandi Living Calm series

Linen is a seasonless fabric: breathable in warm weather and insulating in cool weather. The Scandi Living Calm range brings that relaxed Nordic look with a soft, lived-in texture. If you love effortless style and low-fuss care, linen covers are a great choice.

Scandi Living Calm Pillow Case — 19.7 x 19.7 inches (Red, Carbon, Smokey Blue)

These square 19.7 x 19.7 inch covers are perfect for accent cushions on a sofa or layered on a bed. The slightly slubby linen weave creates a casual, handcrafted feel. Colors like Red and Smokey Blue give a pop of personality, while Carbon offers a moody neutral. Linen ages well, getting softer with every wash — like a favorite tee for your pillows.

Scandi Living Calm Pillow Case — 15.7 x 23.6 inches (Greige, Sky Blue)

The rectangular 15.7 x 23.6 inch sizes are ideal for lumbar cushions or pairing with standard bed pillows. Greige is a modern neutral that anchors a calming palette, while Sky Blue adds airy brightness. Use these on a bed layered with 19.7 inch squares for a designer look without the designer price tag.

Classic and minimal — 1898 Bjärknäs cushion cover

The 1898 Bjärknäs cover for the inside of the cushion box in Small Grey is a no-fuss option for those who want crisp, Scandinavian minimalism. At roughly 19.7 x 19.7 inches when paired with the right insert, this style is versatile for both sofas and beds and complements bolder patterned covers when you want a calm base layer.

Contemporary texture — House Doctor and Broste Copenhagen

Textured weaves and contemporary palettes are a quick way to introduce subtle sophistication. These brands lean on tactile details and refined colorways to keep your space feeling curated rather than cluttered.

House Doctor Chil Pillowcase — 15.7 x 31.5 inches

The Chil pillowcase is long and narrow at about 15.7 x 31.5 inches, which makes it a great candidate for body pillows or decorative bolsters. Its sleek profile works beautifully on a modern sofa or as an extra-luxe body pillow for the bed. Pair it with smaller accent cushions for contrast.

Broste Copenhagen Touch Pillowcase — 15.7 x 23.6 inches (Intense Blue - Off White)

Broste’s Touch line mixes color blocking with tactile fabric. The 15.7 x 23.6 inch size is a classic rectangular cover that suits rests along the back of a sofa or as supporting pillows on a bed. The Intense Blue with Off White offers a crisp, Nordic contrast — great for coastal or minimalist interiors.

Velvet and softness — Ceannis and Marimekko options

If you’re after luxury and texture, velvet adds drama and a touch of vintage glamour without shouting. Velvet works especially well in bedrooms where you want a more opulent or cozy vibe.

Ceannis Velvet Collection Pillow Cover — 19.7 x 19.7 inches (Gray)

A velvet 19.7 x 19.7 inch cover in Gray makes a subtle statement. Velvet’s short pile reflects light in a way that gives depth to neutral colors, and the tactile comfort feels lush against bare skin. It’s a smart pick for a moody Master bedroom or to dial up the luxury on a guest bed.

Ceannis Soft Egg Pillowcase — 15.7 x 35.4 inches (Denim Blue)

The Soft Egg is an elongated design at roughly 15.7 x 35.4 inches — perfect for a long lumbar or daybed. Denim Blue velvet brings a casual-meets-upscale look that pairs nicely with woven blankets and rustic wood furniture. This shape is great for hugging and relaxing, and it doubles as a chic sofa bolster.

Marimekko Rantaniitty Cushion Cover — 19.7 x 19.7 inches (White-Multi)

Marimekko’s Rantaniitty pattern is iconic for its bold, graphic prints in fresh colorways. A 19.7 x 19.7 inch cover with a white-multi pattern acts like artwork on your sofa or bed — it’s an instant focal point. Use it to add whimsy or to anchor a playful, modern scheme.

Designer elegance — Himla Soul pillowcase

Himla’s Soul pillowcase comes in about 19.7 x 23.6 inches and leans into understated elegance. The Sabre color is sophisticated and warm, making it suitable for layered bedroom looks. This cover strikes a great balance between casual linen textures and a tailored finish, which means it fits in both rustic and refined settings.

How to choose the right size and fit

Choosing the right size is half the battle. Square sizes like 19.7 x 19.7 inches are great for decorative throw pillows, while 15.7 x 23.6 inch and longer 15.7 x 31.5 or 15.7 x 35.4 inch covers work well for lumbar and body pillows. When in doubt, measure your pillow or cushion — a cover should snugly hug the insert for a plump look unless you prefer a relaxed, slouchy aesthetic.

Closure types and why they matter

Envelope, zipper, and button closures each have their perks. Envelopes are simple and silent (no clinking buttons), zippers give a smooth, tailored finish, and buttons can be decorative. Pick what suits your lifestyle: zippers are great if you change covers often, while envelopes are low-fuss for decorative cushions.

Care and maintenance tips for different fabrics

Care varies by material. Linen often gets softer after a few washes and usually tolerates machine washing on a gentle cycle with cool water; it benefits from air drying to preserve shape. Velvet needs gentler handling — turn covers inside out for washing and avoid high heat when drying. Printed cotton or blends like those used by Marimekko usually wash well but check labels for colorfastness. Always follow care instructions on the tag and, when in doubt, wash on a gentle cycle and lay flat to dry.

Styling tips — mix, match, and layer like a pro

Want a designer bed without hiring a stylist? Start with a neutral base — think Gray, Greige, or Carbon — then add one or two statement pillows in bold colors or patterns. Pair different shapes (square, rectangular, long lumbar) to create depth. For texture, mix linen with velvet or a woven piece, and finish with a throw that picks up one of the pillow colors. Layering is like seasoning: a little contrast makes everything pop.

Seasonal swaps — what to use when

Switch pillowcases seasonally to change both look and comfort. In summer, linen and lightweight cotton are your friends because they breathe. Come fall and winter, swap in velvet and thicker weaves to trap warmth and add a cozy vibe. It’s an easy update that feels fresh and keeps your bedroom in sync with the seasons.

Sustainability and fabric sourcing — what to look for

If eco-friendliness matters, look for European-made linens, organic cotton, and brands that disclose sourcing. Linen is often a great sustainable choice because flax uses less water than cotton. Certifications like OEKO-TEX indicate lower harmful chemical use, and many designers now offer recycled or responsibly produced lines. Investing in durable, timeless pillowcases reduces waste by keeping you from constantly replacing flimsy options.

Budgeting and where to compare prices

You don’t always need designer price tags to get a luxe look. Mix higher-end statement covers (like Marimekko or velvet pieces) with affordable basics for balance. Use price comparison platforms and review aggregators to track deals and identify the best value. Remember: a slightly higher upfront cost for durable, well-made covers often pays off in longevity and fewer replacements.

Extras that elevate the look

Little details make a big difference. Piped edges, contrast stitching, and hidden zips create a tailored finish. Consider inserts with a slightly larger size than the cover for a full, plump appearance — a 19.7 x 19.7 inch cushion looks best with a slightly larger 20 x 20 inch insert for maximum fluff. Also, think about pillow fill: down gives a plush, moldable feel, while synthetic fills are hypoallergenic and easier to care for.

Quick comparisons: Linen vs Velvet vs Printed Cotton

Linen: breathes well, casual elegance, softens with age. Velvet: plush, warm, adds luxury and depth. Printed cotton: versatile, easy to style, often budget-friendly. Choose linen for everyday comfort and low-maintenance chic, velvet for statement-making luxury, and printed cotton for playful or patterned accents.

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid buying covers without checking dimensions — mismatched sizes can ruin the overall look. Don’t rely solely on online photos for color; request swatches if you need an exact match. And don’t forget to think about washability: some gorgeous fabrics require professional cleaning and may not be practical for high-traffic homes.

Final styling checklist before you buy

Quick checklist: measure your pillows, choose two main textures (e.g., linen + velvet), pick a neutral base color, add one patterned or bright accent, confirm closure type, and check care instructions. If you follow this simple process, you’ll end up with a bed or sofa that’s visually layered, comfortable, and practical.

Other products to consider alongside pillowcases

Think beyond covers: invest in good inserts, high-quality throws, and coordinating duvet or quilt covers. A plush insert will make any pillowcase look better, and a matching throw ties the whole room together. If you’re renovating a whole room, consider matching curtain fabric or a rug that picks up an accent color for a polished finish.

Where these styles work best in the home

Square 19.7 x 19.7 inch covers shine on sofas and layered beds. Rectangular 15.7 x 23.6 inch covers suit bed ensembles and couch backs. Longer 15.7 x 31.5 or 15.7 x 35.4 inch cushions are perfect for daybeds, window seats, or as body pillows. Think about the function of each space: a guest room might favor easy-care cotton, whereas your main bedroom can indulge in linen and velvet.

Wrap-up: pick pieces that speak to your style and life

Choosing pillowcases and shams is about balancing aesthetics with everyday realities. Whether you pick Scandi linen for a relaxed look, Marimekko for a graphic pop, or Ceannis velvet for tactile luxury, aim for pieces that match how you use your space. Mix shapes, textures, and a couple of statement colors, and you’ll have a layered, cozy setup that looks intentional and feels personal.

Conclusion

Pillowcases and shams may seem like small details, but they have a huge effect on the feel of a room. From the breathable Scandi Living linen options in 19.7 x 19.7 and 15.7 x 23.6 inches to the plush Ceannis velvet and bold Marimekko prints, there are styles to suit every taste and budget. Prioritize the right size, choose fabrics that suit your climate and lifestyle, and don’t shy away from mixing textures. With a little planning, you can create a bedroom or living area that looks thoughtfully styled and feels downright inviting.