AND SO TO BED

STYLING YOUR BED HAS SUDDENLY BECOME A WORK OF HIGH ART, BUT RATHER THAN OVERDOING IT, YOU SHOULD STICK WITH A FEW OF THE KEY BASICS

If bedding stylists have anything to do with it, you’ll soon need a fine arts degree to be able to make your bed. Between the layering of many pillows in different shapes, corresponding shades and fabrics and positioning a knitted throw just so at the end of the bed, there are a variety of elements required to get right.

A beautifully presented bed may be like a piece of art in a room, but the reality of making a bed with more than a dozen pieces in the early morning rush is just not feasible.

So what stays and what can you live without? Legend Linen head stylist Danielle Kelly says when it comes to styling a bed, sometimes less is more.

Looking after bedding brands such as Private Collection, Logan & Mason and Florence Broadhurst, Danielle says overdoing

it with throws and cushions will create a cluttered feeling and become an impractical roadblock when it comes time to go to sleep. In saying that, Danielle says a king-size bed would look rather naked with just a plain doona.

“I would suggest using an odd number of cushions in various sizes,” she says. “For example, if you own a king-size bed, you could try three Euro cushions, four standard cushions, and three feature cushions.”

Smaller beds require far fewer props, and taking style cues from a retailer’s store window will inspire you to create the right look for your room. Note, this doesn’t mean you need to shop the entire look.

When pulling together your bedding theme, Danielle says it’s best to stick with no more than three colours.

“What is it that you want to achieve in your bedroom? Soft and relaxing? Use muted greys and dusty pinks,” Danielle says. “Bold and bright? Use vibrant colours and loud prints.”

Some things that are a must regardless of your colour palette are a plush insert, throw and quality sheets.

“You can’t go past quality cotton sheets,” she says. “They are durable, comfortable and easy to wash. Perfect for every day.”

Making the bed every morning doesn’t have to be a laborious task, and a tousled look is part of the charm. “Layer it up. The aim should be to achieve casual elegance,” Danielle says. “Once you’ve placed your sheets, you can layer blankets, comforters, and duvets depending on your personal taste.”