I made it a goal these past six months to redecorate my apartment. When I was working a typical 9-5 office job, and was away from the little box I call home the majority of the time, it was easy to overlook the fact that it looked like a college kid’s pad. But once I started working from home, I realized I needed an inspiring place to work and live in. Not to mention that this was long overdue. Especially because my former job required me to to write about decor and how to decorate! The first place I started was the bedroom, namely the bed, and I’m gonna walk you through my bedroom decorating tip or two that helped me a ton along the way.

For me, the bed was what always irked me the most. It never felt welcoming for a good night’s sleep, and that was a major problem. It should be the place I/you want to go to most!! And now that I have it, I want EVERYONE to be able to enjoy the same thing. And to realize that it’s not so daunting. I swung toward neutrals when redecorating to make sure that both BF & I liked it. It also ensures seamless flow from room to room. So, without further ado, here are my tried & true, super simple tips for how to style a bed using neutrals.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #1: Start with a White Base

A simple white sheet and comforter set really sets the perfect blank canvas. It makes your bed look like a fluffy cloud to fall into at night and it also make your whole bedroom feel brighter (especially great if you’re lacking good natural light). I used to be afraid to make the switch to white because my feisty little dachshund Speedy loves to get muddy, then cuddle under the covers. These white sheets/comforter are actually easier to maintain. If Speed makes a wild dash to the bed after playing in the rain, all I have to do is use a little bleach in the wash with them. Before, I couldn’t do that to remove stains because the bleach would ruin the color. These are the sheets & comforter I bought. You can always go lower quality on the comforter, but I think it’s important to have soft, touchable sheets.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #2: Add a Tufted Headboard

A headboards makes or breaks the look of a bed. It’s what visually frames it. I like a tufted one in a nubby texture because there’s nothing worse than flipping over, and smacking your head on a hard, wooden slab. It makes your room feel warmer and inviting. Plus it provides a nice contrast to the white sheets.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #3: Get a Bedskirt

A bedskirt is what makes the whole thing feel complete, and it’s a great way to hide what you cram under the bed. Because storage is an issue for us, we definitely needed one. I opted for a solid, dove grey cotton bedskirt that’s structured with big pleats. Not a fan of prints on bedskirts, as this is sort of an anchor for the bed. Plus, it complements, rather than competes with my grey geometric area rug.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #4: Never Match

When you’re working with neutrals, it’s easy because greys, blacks, whites and browns coordinate beautifully together. That being said, to avoid the whole look coming out flat, never EVER choose matching elements. That doesn’t mean you can’t use multiple grays or any other color–you just have to use different shades and patterns.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #5: Use Lots of Different Textures

Just as important as switching up the colors is having multiple textures. My comforter has a subtle ruched texture, the headboard is tweed, some of the decorative pillows have a knitted look to them, and the throw is faux fur. Don’t be afraid to play with different fabric types. This is really what’s going to make your bed look extra comfy.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #6: Create Layers

Creating layers is what makes the bed look full and well put together. You can easily do that with lots of pillows (I literally have 9 of them on my bed), some for sleeping and some for show, and a good throw blanket. Currently I’m loving my faux fur throw. Not only does it keep the white comforter from looking bland, it was great for extra warmth in the winter. Once the summer months roll in, I’ll probably opt for a linen one.

Bedroom Decorating Tip #7: Choose One Pattern as the Star

Definitely don’t be afraid to mix patterns with neutrals, but if you’re going to do that, chose one small area to do a big, bold pattern, then keep the others small and tame. I chose to put my big pattern right in the front with an oversized lumbar pillow in a black & white global print.

GET THE LOOK:

1. Headboard 2. Knitted Pillow 3. Global Print Pillow 4. Faux Fur Throw 5. Area Rug 6. Comforter Set 7. Bedskirt

Now what are you waiting for?! Go make that bed over and sleep tight!!