Let’s chat bedding basics today, shall we?

After I published my One Room Challenge last November, a lot of my girlfriends were asking me about my linens, shams, and more importantly, how to simply build a better bed. Putting together a stylish but also equally comfortable bed is so important in my opinion. If you think about how many hours we sleep in a year – that’s a lot of time spent in our actual beds!

So today I thought it’d be fun to put together my 4 tips on how to build a better bed.

One. Find A Mattress You Love

I know, I know, mattresses are expensive. However, if you invest in a mattress you absolutely love – you will never look back. I personally love the pillowtop mattresses. If you live in New York City, I can’t stress the importance of measuring your bedroom to ensure the correct size mattress can fit (i.e. a Queen vs. a Full).  The best mattress I’ve ever purchased (and is still at my parents house) is one from Sears. I also am a huge fan of buying pillow toppers for your bed. Try Target or Macys for the most comfortable mattress toppers.

Two. Let Your Headboard / Bed Make A Statement

If I have one pet peeve, it’s bedrooms / beds that don’t have a headboard or bed frame. It’s such an essential piece of your bedroom and one of the easiest ways to make a statement!

Two. Layer On The Linens

Choosing the right linens very much effects the comfort of your bed and the overall “layered look.” The softest sheets I’ve ever owned are from Boll and Branch. I’m also a big fan of the Brooklyn and Bond line at Target. I currently have these blue and white striped sheets in rotation as pictured above. And last but not least, Serena and Lily sheets are another must. So many fun prints and patterns to choose from. My favorites include: the Sand Dollar Sheet Set, the Amelie Sheet Set, and the crab sheet set. How cute?

Three. Master The Art of Pillow Mixing

My rule of the thumb when it comes to pillows: more is more. I like to use at least six pillows when making my bed. When it comes to mastering the art of pillow mixing I like to incorporate two euro shams, two standard pillow sizes, two throw pillows (pattern can very) and one smaller square pillow to top it off. Don’t be afraid to mix colors, prints and patterns when developing your pillow scheme. My monogram pillows are from my friend Sue from the Zhush. You can pick them up here! Sue also has several other monogram styles you can peruse right here. The navy and white striped pillows are courtesy of Roxy at Society Social. Talk about creating the perfect mix of throw pillows – Roxy has so many fab options to choose from. A few other of my favorite places to shop for throw pillows: Caitlin Wilson Textiles, Studio McGee, Gansett Lane Home and Etsy.

Four. Don’t Skimp On The Bedskirt

Another pet peeve of mine (I know, I have a lot) are beds without bed skirts. They are simply the finishing touch to the perfectly layered bed. The best part about bed skirts is that they can be very affordable. Try Target or Serena and Lily for classic designs. I love a good ruffle or a greek key pattern to up the anti.

What are some of your bedding essentials that you can’t live without? Have a great Thursday, everyone! Xo. Lauren