What Are Pillow Shams?

Pillow shams are used in bedrooms as a decorative item on the bed. These shams contain pillows, but they are not meant to be slept on. Pillow shams are for decorative purposes, and should be placed off the bed at bedtime. Many pillow shams are available and can be found at both discount stores and high-priced bedroom outlets.

Function

Pillow shams are decorative pillowcases that are placed over pillows. They are usually placed on top of bedding to create a custom-designed appearance.

Size

Pillow shams come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common is the rectangular shape that covers the standard bed pillow.

Types

Many pillow shams have ruffled edges, while others are more tailored. Shams can be lacy, silky, striped or patterned. Pillow shams can be rectangular, round or square.

Considerations

Pillow shams can be purchased individually to match a bed set that is sold at the store, or to match a set you already have at home. Most bed-in-a-bag sets include matching pillow shams.

Misconceptions

Many people confuse pillow sham with the term "bed sham." A bed sham refers to a bed skirt, which is different than a pillow sham. A bed skirt covers the box spring under a mattress.

Fact

According the the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the word "sham" refers to a trick. So a pillow sham is a false or trick pillow that is used for decorating.

Resources

• Pillow shams
• Merriam-Webster: Definition