Pillow Shams: Guide to Sizes, Styles & How to Use Them

What Is a Pillow Sham?

A pillow sham is a decorative cover for pillows, designed primarily for aesthetic purposes rather than sleeping. Unlike standard pillowcases, which are simple envelopes for sleeping pillows, shams feature decorative fronts with flanges (fabric borders), embroidery, quilting, or other ornamental details. They're typically removed before sleep and serve as the finishing touch that transforms a bed from functional to styled.

The term "sham" originates from the 18th century, when decorative pillow covers with false fronts were used to create the illusion of more elaborate bedding. Today, shams remain a staple of interior design, providing an easy way to update bedroom aesthetics without replacing entire bedding sets.

Sham vs. Pillowcase: Key Differences

Feature	Pillow Sham	Pillowcase
Primary Purpose	Decoration	Sleeping / protection
Design	Ornamental, often with flange	Simple, functional
Opening	Envelope or zippered back	Open end or envelope
Fabric	Decorative (sateen, linen, velvet)	Comfort-focused (cotton, silk)
Washing Frequency	Weekly or bi-weekly	Every 3–7 days
Typical Sizes	Standard, Queen, King, Euro	Standard, Queen, King

Types of Pillow Shams

Flanged Shams

The most traditional style, featuring a 1–3 inch fabric border (flange) around all four edges. This creates a framed, tailored look that works well in formal or traditional bedrooms. The flange adds visual weight and structure.

Knife-Edge Shams

These have no flange — the front and back panels meet at a clean seam. Knife-edge shams offer a more contemporary, streamlined appearance. They're lighter visually and work well in minimalist or modern spaces.

Quilted Shams

With stitched patterns that create texture and dimension, quilted shams add warmth and visual interest. They're particularly popular in farmhouse and cottage-style bedrooms.

Embroidered Shams

Featuring decorative stitching, monograms, or appliqué, embroidered shams add personalized detail. They're common in luxury bedding collections and make excellent gifts.

Euro Shams

Measuring 26" × 26", Euro shams are square and designed for European-size pillows. They're typically used as the back layer of a styled bed, propped against the headboard. Euro shams create a structured, hotel-like foundation for bedding arrangements.

Sham Sizes and Dimensions

Sham Size	Dimensions	Fits Pillow Insert
Standard	20" × 26"	20" × 26" standard pillow
Queen	20" × 30"	20" × 30" queen pillow
King	20" × 36"	20" × 36" king pillow
Euro / European	26" × 26"	26" × 26" square pillow
Boudoir	12" × 16"	12" × 16" accent pillow

How to Style Pillow Shams on Your Bed

Layered Arrangement

Start with Euro shams against the headboard, followed by sleeping pillows in shams or cases, then decorative accent pillows in front. This creates depth and visual interest. The typical hotel-style arrangement uses 2–3 Euro shams, 2 sleeping pillows, and 1–2 accent pillows.

Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical

Symmetrical arrangements (equal numbers on each side) create a formal, traditional feel. Asymmetrical arrangements (different sizes or numbers on each side) feel more casual and contemporary.

Color Coordination

Shams offer an easy way to introduce accent colors. Choose shams that complement your duvet or comforter while adding contrast. Patterned shams work well against solid bedding; solid shams balance patterned bedding.

Sham Materials and Fabrics

Cotton

Breathable, easy to clean, and available in endless colors and patterns. Cotton shams are the most versatile and affordable option. Percale cotton feels crisp; sateen cotton has a subtle sheen.

Linen

Creates a relaxed, organic aesthetic. Linen shams soften with washing and have a natural texture that adds visual interest. They're ideal for casual, beachy, or Scandinavian-inspired bedrooms.

Silk and Satin

Luxurious shams with a luminous finish. Silk and satin catch light beautifully and add glamour to bedding arrangements. They're typically higher maintenance but create an undeniably upscale look.

Velvet

Rich and textured, velvet shams add warmth and depth. They're particularly effective in winter months and in rooms with cool color palettes. The plush texture creates contrast against smooth cotton or linen sheets.

Buying Guide: Choosing Pillow Shams

Match sham size to your pillow size. A standard sham on a queen pillow looks sloppy; a queen sham on a standard pillow bags loosely. If you use pillow inserts (common with Euro shams), size the insert slightly larger than the sham for a full, plush appearance.

Consider closure type. Envelope closures hide the pillow completely and work well for sleeping pillows that are removed at night. Zipper closures offer a cleaner look for decorative pillows that stay in place.

Buy shams as part of a bedding set for guaranteed coordination, or mix and match for a more personalized look. Having 2–3 sets of shams allows seasonal rotation without replacing the entire bedding collection.

Care and Maintenance

Wash shams every 1–2 weeks to prevent dust accumulation. Follow fabric-specific care instructions — silk and velvet may require dry cleaning, while cotton and linen are typically machine washable. Iron or steam shams after washing for a crisp, polished look.

Store seasonal shams in breathable containers to prevent mustiness. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets keep stored shams smelling fresh.

FAQ

What's the difference between a sham and a pillowcase?

A sham is decorative, often with ornamental details and a flange. A pillowcase is functional, designed for sleeping. Shams are typically removed before bed; pillowcases stay on.

Can you sleep on a pillow sham?

While you can, shams are designed for decoration, not comfort. They often have textured fabrics, embroidery, or zippers that aren't pleasant against the face during sleep.

What size sham fits a standard pillow?

A standard sham (20" × 26") fits a standard pillow. For a fuller look, some people use a slightly larger sham or stuff the sham with a larger insert.

How many shams should be on a bed?

Typically 2–4 for sleeping pillows plus 2–3 Euro shams for decorative layering. The exact number depends on bed size and personal style preferences.

Do shams come with comforter sets?

Many bedding sets include matching shams. Check the product description — sets typically specify whether shams are included and in what sizes.