After a long day, few things are as comforting as sinking into a cozy bed with soft sheets and plush blankets. But what if your bed didn’t just feel good, but looked good too? If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel that had a bed so beautiful, you didn’t want to leave, you know the appeal of a luxurious look. If your bed has seen better days, you might be wondering how to make a bed more comfortable. Fortunately, with a few simple tricks, you can create a bed that looks effortlessly luxurious and feels irresistibly cozy, like a high-end hotel retreat you can enjoy every night at home.
One way to achieve this goal is to start with a cloud-like fluffy duvet, like the ones from Yumerest. These duvets enhance your bed’s appearance and add a plush, cozy layer that feels like drifting into soft, fluffy clouds, perfect for better sleep and elevated comfort.
15 Expert Tips on How to Make a Bed Look Luxurious
1. Factor a Frame
Your bed is the central focus of your room, so the style of frame you choose will significantly impact its look and feel. It might seem obvious, but to make a bed look more luxurious, you must first address the actual bed itself!
Finding Stylish Sleep Solutions for Every Space
Four-poster beds have long been reminiscent of a hotel room, but this might not be the best choice if your bedroom is small or has low ceilings. But fear not, when it comes to where to buy a bed, there are plenty of options. Even a simple divan bed can be dressed up to the nines and, with the proper styling and bedding, can look a million dollars.
Tailoring Bed Frames to Aesthetics and Practicality
If you love vintage style, look for a frame with an upholstered or painted frame. If you want that modern, minimal look, a large, oversized headboard is for you. If you have a small bedroom, an ottoman bed is the dream! I have just bought one for my spare room, where I can now stash my props for shoots in the lift-up storage compartment. It’s fab.
Nevertheless, if you want to buy a new bed, allocate the most significant part of your budget to your mattress, NOT the bed frame. Your mattress has the most significant impact on your sleeping patterns.
2. Go for a Neutral Base
Neutrals always bring a calming vibe to a room and look chic and sophisticated. So stick with this softer color palette:
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Creams
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Whites
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Soft greys
Layer them up for a tonal effect that will add interest and depth. You can always introduce subtle patterns or hints of paler colors, too.
Choosing Subtle Patterns and Classic White
As Rhiannon mentioned, choosing a patterned flat sheet can be nice so you get that hint of a print, but it doesn't interrupt the simple scheme; a neutral gingham or classic stripe is our favorite option. You can't beat classic crisp white bedding to make your bed more inviting and luxurious.
Layering Natural Fabrics for Comfort and Style
Says designer Naomi Astley Clarke. 100% cotton is a timeless favorite, as it creates that perfect “crisp hotel bed” feeling while providing a neutral base for cushions and throws. To dress the bed, layer natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool depending on the season to create a cozy, relaxed look.
Considering White Variations and Fabric Quality
I love crisp, white bed linen for its timeless, elegant look that complements most color schemes. Nevertheless, in some cases, a softer shade of white or a muted color would work better, especially in moodier schemes where the contrast is too harsh. When choosing a muted color, avoid regular cotton bedding, as it may fade over time, giving it a worn and old appearance even if it is relatively new.
Seasonal Fabric Choices and the Importance of Samples
During colder months, opt for brushed cotton, which is more durable than regular cotton due to the brushing process. For warmer months, invest in quality linen, a lightweight and breathable material that helps keep you cool. And always request a sample of the bed linen fabric to assess its color. This is particularly crucial when making purchases online, as the color and texture of the fabric might differ from what is seen on the screen.
3. Indulge in a Dreamy Duvet
Next, you'll need to consider treating yourself to the best duvets and pillows to make a bed look more luxurious. Emily and Jonathan Attwood, Founders of scooms advise, “You want to start with choosing high quality, naturally filled duvets and pillows. Especially in the colder seasons, going for a higher tog duvet will instantly make your bed look more inviting and get that all-important cloud-like look and feel.”
“You can not beat a good quality duvet for giving your bed a fluffy, luxurious look,” Maxine agrees. “Swapping your duvet cover will make you sleep deeper and for longer. Plus a fluffy one looks lush when styled with fresh linen sheets. It’s worth investing in a good duvet as it will last you for years.”
“Don't forget your pillows too,” adds Emily and Jonathan. “Doubling up with four pillows will give that depth and make the bed more inviting.”
“Oh yes, pillows are just as important as your duvet,” agrees Maxine. “You'll need one to sleep on that will support your head comfortably so that you don’t wake up with a crooked neck. I would advise natural-filled ones as they are more responsive. If you suffer from allergies, then look out for ones that are hypoallergenic.”
“I also like large oversized square pillows which I use to support myself when reading in bed. They also look great when styled on the bed - as you can choose pillowcases in a pattern or colour for visual interest.”
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet transforms your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary. Its exceptional 5 kg filling envelops you in cloud-like softness, promoting more profound, restorative sleep.
This premium Canadian duvet stands apart from competitors like Happy Fluffy Cloud and Hush through its ethically sourced northern down, which perfectly regulates temperature year-round; never too hot, just perfectly cozy.
Expert Craftsmanship for Rejuvenating Rest
Crafted by expert artisans with techniques perfected since 1946, our duvets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation for an unparalleled sleeping experience. The PureFlow bundle, featuring our heavenly duvet, elegant cover, and calming sleep mist, creates a complete sleep sanctuary that helps busy professionals and parents finally achieve the rejuvenating rest they deserve. Get deep sleep every night with our cloud-like soft, fluffy duvets.
4. Set the Scene with Sheets
Once you've got the basics of a comfortable mattress and the best duvets and pillows covered, it's time to select the best bedding sets and sheets for your bed. Emily and Jonathan advise, “You then want to choose high-quality bed sheets. 100% Egyptian cotton sheets in classic white are the perfect choice, as they'll bring a crisp, classic look evocative of the finest luxury hotels, while a high thread count will add that supreme softness and comfort.
“As a general rule of thumb, the higher the thread count, the thicker and more luxurious the bedding, which is a crucial factor to always bear in mind when shopping around for your sheets,” adds Emma Price, founder of Interior Design company Fable & Willow.
Achieving Plush Hotel Luxury with Crisp Bedding
Whinnie agrees that to get that all-important plush-hotel vibe and make a bed look more luxurious, you must opt for white. “When it comes to bedding, you can't go wrong with crisp, high-quality white sheets. A clean, tailored look is a staple in luxury hotels and creates a fresh, relaxing base for your space.”
From Quiet Tones to Bold Accents
If you're keen for some color in your bedroom, Whinnie adds, “The Quiet Luxury trend that we've seen a lot of this year, often embraces the use of soft, quiet tones in the bedroom. But trends like the Unexpected Red Theory and whimsical décor show there's still room for colour in luxurious spaces.”
Rich jewel tones like deep purples, sumptuous blues, and velvety greens (colors fit for royalty) can make a statement even with a neutral base. Consider a bold feature wall or upcycle furniture with leftover paint.
5. Think About Layers and Texture
You need to get layering to give your bed a more luxurious, expensive feel. Think about the best mattresses you've ever slept in; we bet none have had just one comforter and a single pillow. Rhiannon Johns, Interior Designer at Piglet in Bed, puts it perfectly: 'A scarce bed consisting of just a duvet cover and one pair of pillowcases is reminiscent of a boy’s university room.
Layering for Luxurious Texture and Style
You'll want lots of layers for a luxurious bed that looks expensive. A flat sheet under the duvet cover adds an extra textural flair and can add a pop of color if you prefer a neutral-colored duvet cover. As for pillows, start with two large square pillows at the back, add two pairs of standard-sized pillows, and finish with a super king pillow across the front or scatter cushions.
The Importance of Layers for an Inviting Bed
In the colder months, drape a throw over the end of the bed for extra warmth and luxury. It sounds dreamy. Designer Marie Flanigan agrees that an expensive-looking bed is all about the layers. Incorporating beautiful layers is the key to making bedding look more luxurious. A well-appointed and textured bed is always inviting after a long day.
“My method for making a bed includes choosing a nice sheet set to provide a neutral foundation. Then, layer in a maltase coverlet in a solid color or understated pattern with matching king or queen shams, depending on the bed size. I also like to include a duvet at the end of the bed, often in soft linen.”
“Lastly, I like to keep the decorative pillows simple with a single lumbar pillow for visual impact. If you’re looking for one more layer, you can always add a textured throw blanket on top which can be changed out seasonally,” she suggests.
6. Opt for a Decorative Headboard for a Touch of Personality
Suppose you want something a bit dramatic in your bedroom. In that case, Martin Waller, founder of the interior design brand Andrew Martin, reveals that a statement headboard can add an instant touch of luxury with barely any design effort required. And we couldn't agree more; there's a reason statement headboards, inspired by luxury hotel rooms, are a key bedroom trend for 2025.
“Look towards using intricate headboards as a way of introducing personality to a space. After all, our bedroom interiors should be as individual as the people that inhabit them," says Martin. "Don’t be afraid to choose a more outlandish style, as this only adds more character.”
Budget-Friendly Elegance
Headboards can be pricey, but there is a huge range of budget options available. Rudolph suggests that if your budget is tighter, “Look for vintage or second-hand pieces that you can reupholster yourself with fabrics such as velvet or corduroy to create a cohesive, luxurious look.”
7. Stick with a Neutral Colour Scheme
There's a reason why muted neutral shades are such an enduring interior color trend. They instantly give off a luxury look all on their own. “If you want to create a sense of luxury in your bedroom, I recommend avoiding bright, bold colours on the walls, as these easily can become dated," explains Shanade McAllister-Fisher, an award-winning interior designer.
"Instead, I would opt for neutral shades like the best white paint colours, grey, or beige." Not only do these soft shades exude glamour, but they're also easy to accessorize with. "These colours create a clean and sophisticated look, and can easily be elevated to look more expensive and luxurious with touches of gold, black, or slate grey in your accessories," Shanade tells w&h.
"Think metallic drawer handles, slate-topped bedside tables, and sleek black picture frames on the walls." Much like the combinations used to get the look of the 'Quiet Luxury' decor trend.
8. Install Warm, Low-Level Lighting
The wrong type of lighting in your bedroom will make it look less upscale, and bright, white light can also throw off the room's ambiance. Instead, Shanade suggests using warm, low lighting to transform the space. Not only is it an affordable change, but it will also help create a soothing, spa-like vibe within your bedroom to help you sleep better.
“Use lighting to your advantage, with strategically placed options able to create a warm and inviting atmosphere," suggests Shanade. "If you can, install a dimmer switch to control the amount of light in the room – and consider adding a statement light fixture, such as a chandelier or large floor lamp, for a simple way to upgrade the space.”
Mara Rypacek Miller, managing director at luxury lighting brand Industville, agreed, saying, “Dimmer switches are a quick and cost-effective way of offering multiple lighting levels in a space, allowing you to set the tone and change the atmosphere of a room instantly.”
If you're wondering what other lighting would work, Mara also shared that wall sconces (a lighting fixture attached to the wall) can add a luxury touch without costing a considerable amount. “Wall sconces offer a great secondary source of light in large rooms,” Mara explains.
Using Wall Sconces to Enhance Bedroom Ambiance and Highlight Design
“Most bedrooms have an overhead, primary light source like a chandelier or pendant, but wall sconces can be used to add another flattering layer of more indirect light. They can even be used to highlight architectural features and design elements such as artwork, or decorative shelving for example, which creates a real feeling of luxury. That’s why it’s also practical if they are operated separately, on a different circuit.” This is also a great idea if you're wondering how to make a kitchen look expensive on a budget.
9. Be Mindful of How You Arrange the Pillows on Your Bed
While buying hotel-style bedding (as mentioned above) is a fantastic way to upgrade your bed instantly, it's also essential to consider the presentation of your best pillows to achieve that luxury look. “Using large square pillows and propping them up behind your sleeping pillows is an easy and budget trick that will instantly make the bedroom look more expensive," suggests James Higgins, CEO of Ethical Bedding.
“The square pillows should sit against the headboard, and if possible your headboard should be around 30-50cm higher than your square pillow to elongate the bed and provide the illusion of a taller-looking room,” James advises.
“This is especially effective for low-ceiling homes where you want to achieve a more grand aesthetic. To finish the look, add two small square cushions and place one in front of each pillow, and then take a long baguette cushion to prop front and centre of the arrangement.”
When making a bedroom look expensive on a budget, this is a place to save your cash. These cushions needn't be costly, high-quality choices, as they are more decorative than practical. So rather than splashing out on hotel-brand pillows, look for cheaper alternatives.
10. Ensure Your Curtains Are Hung Properly
A part of your bedroom you may not have considered is your curtains. Still, according to Anne Haimes, design director and founder of Anne Haimes Interiors, curtains can dramatically change how “expensive” your room looks.
"Curtains are an important part of bedroom design, as they help to soften a room and add more texture," explains Anne. "However, hanging your curtains incorrectly can hurt the appearance of your bedroom – so changing this can give your bedroom a touch of luxe without spending a thing."
Achieving Floor-Skimming Elegance and Visual Height with Curtains
How should your curtains be hung, then? "As a general rule, you want the bottom of your full-length curtains to skirt along your floor without dragging or leaving much of a gap," Anne tells w&h. "Hanging curtains closer to the ceiling, if you can, will also create the optical illusion of elongated walls, and make your ceilings appear taller and grander."
11. Ditch the Myth of Thread Counts and Opt for Slubby Materials
Not so long ago, thread counts for bed sheets were the way to judge the quality of your sheets. But now, new manufacturing techniques allow for high-thread counts and denser sheets, but not necessarily excellent quality. So ditch the idea of thread counts, and when choosing the best bed sheets, look to the material instead.
Pure cotton sheets are a dream if you like a crisp feel, but they are high maintenance and will need ironing if you want your bed to look its best. So, switch to linen for a more laid-back look that still looks chic and expensive.
Beyond Thread Count
“When it comes to your bedsheets, while a high thread count cotton has typically been viewed as the luxurious option, these are now quite dated and have been replaced with rustic, natural linen bedding,'” suggests Rhiannon. “Linen has a wonderful textured look and not only does it look beautiful, but it’s also breathable, cozy, soft, thermoregulating (meaning it’s good for all seasons) as well as sustainable to produce. It’s an investment that will last you for decades, meaning it can be passed down through generations.”
12. Don't Scrimp on the Amount of Pillows
Even if you don't need much support when you sleep and prefer one pillow, you still should go with two sleeping pillows (four in total). You want that plush height that a couple of pillows give, plus they give you a nice... wall, let's call it, for your throw pillows. Be sure to choose the best pillows for your sleep style, but again, if you like a flat pillow, go with one pillow for sleeping (the flat one) and one for aesthetics.
Symmetry and Simplicity
When it comes to throw pillows, don't go overboard. You want that lovely layered look we've been talking about, but don’t want the faff of having to arrange them every morning, so just stick with a couple of larger pillows, accent pillows, or a bolster pillow. And always keep things symmetrical.
“For a great elevated look, place your pillows on the bed with the open ends of the pillowcase towards the middle. This way, the openings can’t be seen from the side,” advises Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company. “Small, square cushions are also a fantastically versatile way to elevate your bed. Use them placed squarely on a bed for a simple, tailored look, or mix them with larger cushions to give a layered effect.”
13. Elevate With Decorative Accent Pillows
Accent cushions are like the cherry on top of your bed's comfort and luxury. But remember, it's about quality, not quantity. You want to strike that perfect balance where your pillow arrangement looks intentional but not overdone - plush yet tailored. When picking decorative pillows, keep your bed's overall look and the bedding in mind.
Harmonizing Colors and Textures in Throw Pillows
Colors should match or contrast with your sheets and duvet cover to add layers of interest, creating a subtle look or a splash of drama. Mix patterns and textures for depth that show the bed was intentionally put together. Don't be shy to get creative, whether velvet brush, faux suede, quilted, or patterned.
Sizing and Quantity for Balanced Pillow Arrangements
The size and number of your throw pillows are equally as important. This will all depend on the size of your bed. A double bed will look balanced with two square or boudoir cushions, while a queen or king looks complete with three square cushions and a single lumbar cushion in the front.
14. Dress The Bed With A Runner
Think of a bed runner as the final touch to your luxurious bedroom masterpiece. That last detail elevates your bed from everyday comfortable to chic. It's a simple touch, but it pulls the entire room's aesthetic together with a ribbon of colour or texture. With various bed runners available, it's easy to find one that adds extra flourish that transforms your bedding from simple to stunning.
Adding Color, Texture, and Practical Protection
They work wonders for elevating white linen with a pop of colour or adding texture to colourful luxury bedding. And they're practical, too! A bed runner is a cosy extra for cooler nights and is just as easy to cast aside when the temperature climbs. It's also practical, serving as a protector of your duvet cover and sheets.
15. Extra Considerations for a Final Flourish
Creating a luxurious and cozy bed doesn't just have to stop at the bed itself. To make the ultimate sanctuary, you need to think about the other elements that tie into your bed:
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Mattress
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Nightstand
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Walls
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Lighting
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Etc.
Start with the headboard or the bed frame. A padded headboard is comfortable and stylish, especially if you like sitting up and reading or working.
Creating a Peaceful and Inviting Bedroom Atmosphere
Wood, metal, or padded bed frames can create a luxurious look. Next, move to your nightstand. A couple of books you love, a candle, or even a small plant can make a room feel peaceful. Don't forget the walls; hang some art or decorations above the bed. Good lighting also matters. Warm light, in particular, can make your bedroom feel more inviting.
Related Reading
- Why Can't I Get Comfortable in Bed
- Why Are Hotel Beds So Comfortable
- How to Make Your Bed Like a Hotel
What is the Correct Way To Make a Bed?
There are so many different ways to make your bed, but if you want it to look fluffy and luxurious, follow these steps:
1. Keep Your Mattress in Good Shape with a Mattress Pad
While optional, starting the bed-making process with a mattress pad will keep your mattress looking and feeling its best for years. Mattress pads absorb stains, protecting your mattress from spills and accidents. They also provide an extra layer of softness, helping to create a luxurious sleep experience. Go for a model that is machine washable for easy care.
2. Use a Fitted Bottom Sheet For a Neat Appearance
A fitted bottom sheet will give you a clean, comfortable surface to sleep on. The snug fit also helps eliminate wrinkles that might detract from the look of your expertly made bed. Choose a bottom sheet made from high-quality materials such as cotton sateen or bamboo for an even more luxurious appearance.
3. Add a Top Sheet for Extra Comfort
While some prefer to sleep without a top sheet, this layer will give you a more luxurious feel in bed. Top sheets add comfort that helps regulate body temperature while you sleep. They also provide extra protection for your duvet or comforter, absorbing any sweat or drool that could lead to stains. Choose a top sheet matching your bottom to create a cohesive look.
4. Duvet or Comforter, Your Choice
Once you have your sheets on your bed, place your duvet or comforter on your bed and pull it back about one-third of the way to create a layer. For an extra touch of elegance, pick a duvet or comforter with a removable cover that can be washed regularly to keep fresh. You can also choose a style that complements your sheet set for a designer look.
5. Add a Quilt for Texture and Warmth
A quilt is a great layer if you get cold easily or want to be extra warm during the winter months. Depending on your bed size, this layer should be folded towards the bottom of your bed, either in thirds or fourths. For a truly luxurious look, go for a vintage quilt with an intricate pattern or rich texture.
6. Throw Blanket for Extra Cozy Appeal
Add a throw blanket to the end of your bed to give your bed some texture. A chunky knit or woven throw adds visual interest and invites you to snuggle up with it for extra warmth and comfort.
7: Pillows for Comfort and Décor
Once all of your blankets are on your bed and folded, it's time to add your pillows. Start with your sleeping pillows. Stack these against your headboard for a polished look before placing your shams and decorative throw pillows in front of them. Choose pillow shams and decorative pillows with intricate patterns or textures for an even more luxurious appearance.
Related Reading
- What Kind of Sheets Do Hotels Use
- What Are the Softest Sheets You Can Buy
- What Material is Best for Bed Sheets
- Types of Cotton Sheets
- Types of Bedding
- Down vs Down Alternative
- Top Luxury Bedding Brands
Get Deep Sleep Every Night with Our Cloud-like Soft Fluffy Duvets
Yumerest’s PureFlow Duvet transforms your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary. Its exceptional 5 kg filling envelops you in cloud-like softness, promoting more profound, restorative sleep. This premium Canadian duvet stands apart from competitors like Happy Fluffy Cloud and Hush through its ethically sourced northern down, which perfectly regulates temperature year-round, never too hot, just perfectly cozy.
Where Heritage Meets Innovation for Ultimate Sleep
Crafted by expert artisans with techniques perfected since 1946, our duvets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation for an unparalleled sleeping experience. The PureFlow bundle, featuring our heavenly duvet, elegant cover, and calming sleep mist, creates a complete sleep sanctuary that helps busy professionals and parents finally achieve the rejuvenating rest they deserve.
Get deep sleep every night with our cloud-like fluffy duvets.
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Best Cooling Sheets for Hot Sleepers
