How to Layer Your Bedding Like a Designer—Without Breaking the Bank

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There’s nothing quite like a perfectly made bed to make your bedroom feel luxurious and cozy. Layered bedding not only adds depth and texture but also makes your space look like it came straight out of a magazine. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve the look. Let me show you how you can layer your bedding like a designer—on a budget!

Start with the Basics: Your Sheets

Every beautifully layered bed starts with the foundation: a good set of sheets. Crisp white sheets or neutral tones are timeless and set the stage for whatever look you’re going for.

Here’s a tip for you that I just learned recently — I used to love love love the Shabby Chic sheets they carried at Target because they were crisp and cooling, but they stopped making them! So, what I found out after some research is that you want 100% cotton percale if you want a similar feel.

Here are the ones I’m currently loving:

Budget Tip: Big-box stores often have microfiber or cotton sheet sets on sale. You don’t need to splurge to get that hotel-like feel!

Pro Tip: Wash your sheets with a touch of baking soda to keep them feeling crisp and fresh longer.

Add a Lightweight Quilt or Coverlet

Once you have your sheets, it’s time to add a lightweight quilt or coverlet. This layer is key for creating an elegant, pulled-together look that’s functional year-round. Matelassé or quilted designs add texture and visual interest without overpowering the rest of your bedding.

I like to use quilts in neutral shades like taupe or ivory—they’re classic and easy to style. When I lived on the ranch, I loved layering quilts in the guest room. They made the space feel welcoming for visitors, and they’re super practical for temperature changes.

But again, I only use 100% cotton for these or they can get super hot.

Budget Tip: Check out discount stores like TJ Maxx or Home Goods for high-quality quilts at a fraction of the price.

Make the Comforter or Duvet the Star

Your comforter or duvet is where you can really make a statement. Choose neutral tones or subtle patterns to keep the look cohesive and stylish.

Budget Tip: Opt for a simple duvet insert and dress it up with a stylish cover. It can be more affordable than buying an entire designer comforter set every time you want to redecorate. But stuffing your comforter into one can be nightmarish. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Add Throws or Blankets for Texture

Adding a throw blanket or a textured knit at the foot of the bed creates that designer touch. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your bed look cozy and inviting.

I like to switch these out depending on the season—chunky knits in the winter and lightweight woven throws in the summer. When I was raising my kids, I loved having throws on hand to pull out for an impromptu movie night or an extra chilly evening.

Budget Tip: Shop end-of-season sales to snag trendy throws at discounted prices.

Play with Pillows

Pillows are where you can really get creative! Start with two to four standard pillows tucked neatly at the head of the bed. Layer on decorative shams and finish with one or two statement throw pillows for pops of color or texture.

When I want to refresh my bedroom without spending much, I grab pillow covers to update my existing ones. It’s an affordable way to switch up your decor without buying new pillows.

Budget Tip: Use pillow covers to refresh old pillows and save money. I’ve found a lot of mine at garage sales.

Arrangement Idea: For a king bed, try arranging three euro shams behind the standard pillows, followed by smaller throw pillows in front for dimension.

Perfect the Details

The secret to a designer look is all in the details. Tuck in the corners of your bedding for a polished finish and keep your layers evenly balanced on both sides of the bed.

I love adding small, thoughtful touches like a folded quilt or a seasonal accent pillow. It doesn’t take much, but it made the space feel finished.

Budget Tip: Shop secondhand or DIY small accents like pillowcases or bed skirts to customize your look affordably.

Add a Bed Scarf for a Luxurious Touch

A bed scarf is a long, decorative fabric piece draped across the foot of the bed. It adds an extra pop of color, texture, and pattern to your bedding ensemble.

This can be as simple or as decorative as you want it, but I personally prefer a knit one similar to this:

Design Tip: Choose a bed scarf in a bold hue or print to contrast with neutral bedding. It’s a great way to elevate your decor without committing to a full duvet or comforter change.

Incorporate Layered Textures with Bed Skirts

Bed skirts get overlooked a lot, but they can add a touch of elegance to any bedroom. A pleated, ruffled, or tailored bed skirt in a coordinating fabric can make your bed look extra polished and put-together.

This, of course, depends on the type of bed you have. Some bed designs don’t need it, but my foundation is just a metal frame, so a skirt makes all the difference.

Photo by User – Browse bedroom photos

Pro Tip: If you don’t want a bed skirt, try a bed wrap—it’s a fitted cover that hugs your box spring and gives it a finished look.

Swap Layers for the Seasons

Keep your bed looking fresh all year long by swapping out layers for the seasons. In the summer, I go for lightweight linens and brighter colors, while winter calls for heavier fabrics and richer tones.

Budget Tip: Invest in a few versatile pieces that can transition with the seasons.

The Final Touch

Layering your bedding like a designer doesn’t require a big budget—just a bit of creativity and an eye for detail. By mixing and matching textures, colors, and layers, you’ll create a bed that’s as inviting as it is beautiful. Give your bed the upgrade it deserves—you’ll thank yourself every night!

Some Final Inspiration

Your final look could be something like this:

Don’t be afraid to play around with different textures and patterns. Go with your gut, pick colors you like, and mix it up.

Happy decorating!