How to Decorate White Bedding

Using Texture to Add Visual Interest

Pick bedding with stitching patterns for additional texture. White bedding can be a little boring if you don't add other color or texture for visual interest. Interesting stitching patterns, such as white embroidery, can introduce some much-needed texture to your bed. For example, if you have a white blanket or comforter, pick one that has a stitched pattern in white. The pattern could be as simple as wavy lines, but it could be more complicated, too—anything from roses to stars or leaves.

Add a chunky, crocheted throw to the top of the bed to incorporate a pattern. Crocheted throws have a lot of texture, especially when you choose a chunky pattern. This layer can add texture to otherwise smooth linens. You could also pick a throw with a crocheted pattern, such as one that has all-white granny squares. While you may think of crocheted throws as a winter accent, you can choose one in a lightweight knit to use in the summer as well.

Pick a puffy comforter to perch on top of the bed for a layered look. If you just use sheets and a flat quilt in white, the linens can look a bit flat. A big, puffy comforter, even if it's in white, can make the bed look warm and inviting. You could also choose a box-stitched white comforter, meaning that squares are sewn along the comforter. It still looks puffy, but the sewn lines help hold the stuffing in place. To add visual interest, fold the comforter down so it lays across the bottom third or quarter of the bed.

Choose sheets or a bedspread with pintucks to add interest. Pintucks are little ridges of fabric created by double lines of stitching. You may have seen the look on dresses or shirts. It can add a striped effect to your bedding without using any other color. Try using a bed sheet that has pintucks at the top or pick a light bedspread with pintucks.

Use ruffles for an airy effect. Ruffles can create lots of texture on your bed, whether you use ruffles on the sheets or bedspread. You can also add them to the accent pillows on top. Ruffles in all white can make the bed look fluffy and airy. You can also use ruffles on a bed skirt.

Choose a comforter or quilt with beading for a unique detail. A duvet or quilt with beading, whether it’s simple or intricate, can add interest to white bedding. Beading creates a subtle, yet beautiful pattern, to any white bedding.

Adding Color to the Bed

Layer different whites on the bed for a pleasing effect. If you stick with the same white for all your linens, the bed may look a little bland. Instead, layer creams, off-whites, light tans, and whites on the bed, making it more interesting. For example, if you have all-white sheets, try adding a light tan blanket and an off-white comforter.

Add a layer of color with the sheets or comforter. Just because you love crisp, clean white sheets, that doesn't mean the whole bed has to be white. You can add a layer of color on the top for a pleasing effect. For instance, try a patterned red comforter on top for some warmth. If you don't want that much color, try adding a white comforter that has a pattern on it in gray or white. You still create interest, but you don't add bright splashes of color. Alternatively, pick sheets in a rich hue to add a pop of color to your bed.

Use an accent pillow or 2 to pull in elements from the rest of the room. If you have bold, bright pieces in the rest of the room, a neutral white bed can be a calming center. However, adding a pillow or 2 to the bed in colors from around the room can tie the room together. For example, if you have bright wallpaper, pick a couple of colors from the wallpaper, and choose pillows to match those colors. If your room is all white, choose a color from the view outside your window to make sure the entire space is cohesive.

Pick a simple throw to add a pop of color. If you want to keep the accents light, a small throw at the foot of the bed can add a touch of color. Just choose a pale or pastel color that blends in with the rest of the room. For instance, try a throw in a pale blue that picks up the colors from your curtains.

Choosing an Interesting Frame

Select a white frame for a monochromatic look. If you want to keep the whole bed white, you can even choose a white frame. Pick one with carved designs, for instance, to create visual interest without adding colors. Try a frame with a white spindle at each corner. Alternatively, try a boxy frame with thin posts that connect to a rectangular frame around the top.

Try a spindle bed in a neutral brown for a traditional feel. A spindle bed has decorative rings carved around the frame, making it a statement piece all on its own. Picking one in brown will add interest to your room, so you don't need to worry about your linens being all white. This bed is also referred to as a Jenny Lind, after the famous opera singer.

Add a padded headboard for visual interest. Even if you want to keep the neutrals going through your headboard, a padded headboard can make it more interesting. It creates depth for your bed without adding color. For instance, try a tufted headboard in white or cream. If your existing headboard is another color, you could recover it in white fabric to match your bedding.

Select an iron or brass frame to add contrast. You don't have to stick with wood frames. Iron and brass frames add a nice contrast to white. Some metals even come painted in white if that's your preference. You can pick a more traditional pattern or a more modern frame, and either one can help add interest to your bed. For instance, a dark cast-iron frame with vertical bars across the bottom of the bed can give your bed a farmhouse look.

Opt for a wooden bed for a rustic look. You can create a cottage-like feel with a rustic wooden headboard and white bedding. The contrast keeps your room from looking too flat, while still keeping a fairly traditional vibe.

Decorating the Rest of the Room

Add warmth to the room with neutrals. If you prefer a calming room without too many bright colors, you can still create some warmth by adding neutral colors to the rest of the room. Creams, light tans, browns, golds, and greys can all add warmth without being overwhelming. For example, you could use a dark brown trunk at the end of your bed with a cream-colored throw or pillow on it. If you have room, try a brown leather chair with a light tan throw. Alternatively, use a textured neutral wallpaper, such as a burlap-like wallpaper. The texture will add interest to the room.

Make the bed stand out by surrounding it with color. If the rest of your room is a collection of dark wood and colors, the white of your bed will stand out as a stark centerpiece. This technique works even if the colors you use are subdued. For instance, maybe your room is composed of dark wood furniture, jade green wallpaper, and light blue curtains. Your white sheets will pop against the rest of the room. You could also frame your bed with brightly-colored nightstands or table lamps for a bold look.

Use the bed to show off your art. Choose a bright piece of art that you love, and place it above the bed. The neutral nature of the white linens will let the art stand out, making it the centerpiece of the room. For instance, try a colorful floral painting or a calming ocean scene.

Pick a bold wallpaper that will contrast nicely with the white bed. You may be worried about choosing a bright, bold wallpaper. However, if you keep your bed neutral, it can work, as you don't have too many bold elements working against each other. If you want to tone down the effect, create an accent wall behind your bed in the bold wallpaper. Paint the other walls a solid color.