Bed spreads have been a bedroom staple for generations. The classic bed spread is meant to be the focal point of a well-dressed bed, adding an extra layer of style, color, and texture. However, as home decor trends have shifted, the ubiquity of the bed spread has come into question. Are bed spreads now seen as outdated and old-fashioned, or do they still have a place in the modern bedroom?
The History of Bed Spreads
Bed spreads have a long history of being used as decorative top layers for beds. In the 18th century, quilted coverlets and embroidered textiles were popular as ornate bed spreads. In the 19th century, Chenille bed spreads gained favor for their soft, velvety texture. The early 20th century saw a move toward minimalism with muted solid colors and simple geometric patterns becoming prevalent in bed spread style.
By the 1970s and 1980s, bold prints and psychedelic patterns started emerging in bed spreads. The 1990s and 2000s brought a return to simpler styling like matelassé and damask. Now, in the 2020s, as many decorators embrace boho, modern, and minimalist aesthetics, the relevance of traditional bed spreads has waned.
Decline in Popularity
Over the past decade, bed spreads have declined in popularity compared to years past. There are a few reasons for this:
- Casual, minimalist style: Bed spreads are seen as overly formal and ornate for many of today’s casual, minimalist-inspired bedrooms.
- Layering: The layered bedding look has become popular, making a top bed spread redundant.
- Too much maintenance: The extra layer of a bed spread can be seen as high-maintenance and a hassle to take on and off.
- Not needed for warmth: With high-tech mattresses and duvets, bed spreads are no longer needed to provide warmth.
As a result, bed spreads are not usually found in mainstream home fashion or bedding anymore. However, they do still have a niche appeal.
Niche Appeal
While bed spreads may not be as ubiquitous as they once were, they can still make sense in certain niches. These include:
- Traditional style bedrooms: Bed spreads can help achieve a classic, elegant, or vintage look.
- Cottagecore style: The cottagecore trend has sparked new interest in quilts and coverlets as bed spreads.
- As quilt displays: Quilted and patchwork bed spreads displayed at the foot of the bed or on the wall make artistic statements.
- In guest bedrooms: Bed spreads neatly finish guest beds and create a polished, welcoming look.
- For texture: Bed spreads can add cozy texture that layers nicely over simpler sheets.
While not mainstream, bed spreads can still be used strategically to embellish beds in certain room styles and themes.
How To Style Bed Spreads Today
If you do want to incorporate a bed spread in your bedroom, there are stylish ways to do so:
- Choose minimalist patterns: Solid colors, simple plaids, or tone-on-tone prints keep bed spreads looking fresh.
- Skip the ruffles and flounces: Avoid overly frilly or ornate bed spreads.
- Let it complement your color scheme: Have your bed spread color tie into the room’s main hues.
- Add texture through fabric: Linens, cottons, wool and velvet give beautiful depth.
- Layer creatively: Use the bed spread folded at the foot of the bed or over a duvet.
- Tie in accent pillows: Pull out a color from the bed spread to use on pillows.
- Use ornamentally: Drape a quilt bed spread over a chair or chest at the foot of the bed.
Bed spreads aren’t entirely outdated—they just need to be integrated thoughtfully into a bedroom’s overall vibe. A minimalist patchwork quilt or muted chenille coverlet can still lend style and coziness.
Current Bed Spread Trends
If you want to incorporate a bed spread, these current trends are giving this bedroom staple a fresher, more modern look:
| Trend | Description |
|---|---|
| Neutral solids | Cream, beige or gray solid bed spreads create a calming, neutral backdrop. |
| Textural materials | Bed spreads made of nubby linen, soft chenille or textured wool add cozy depth. |
| Organic patterns | Natural-looking prints like botanical designs or abstract leaf motifs keep patterns feeling relaxed and modern. |
| Oversized | Oversized bed spreads that trail onto the floor a bit have a casually draped look. |
| Minimalist quilts | Simple quilts with solid colors and basic geometric blocks provide an unfussy bed spread option. |
By embracing a minimalist, textural look, bed spreads can still work with contemporary bedroom aesthetics.
How to Choose a Bed Spread
If you decide to incorporate a bed spread in your bedroom, keep these tips in mind when selecting one:
- Pick natural fabrics like cotton, linen or wool for versatility and everyday use.
- Make sure the color palette coordinates with your room’s main hues.
- Look for reversible options to easily switch up the look.
- Assess the maintenance requirements. Some fabrics like chenille may require special cleaning.
- Shop for quality construction with tight stitching or quilting.
- Get the right size bed spread for your mattress to allow some overhang.
- Read reviews and purchase from manufacturers with good reputations.
Take your time and choose a high quality, well-made bed spread in a style that complements your bedroom’s aesthetic.
Bed Spread Alternatives
While bed spreads can still add style, there are alternative ways to dress up your bed if you find bed spreads outdated or impractical:
- Duvet cover: A duvet with a patterned cover adds color and design.
- Accent pillows: Pillows in different shapes, fabrics and colors dress up beds.
- Throws: Folded blankets or throws at the foot add texture and warmth.
- Draping: Creative draping of a sheet or blanket achieves a bed spread look.
- Quilt display: Hang or fold a quilt at the end of the bed as art.
- Upholstered headboard: An upholstered headboard becomes the focal point.
There are plenty of ways to create an inviting, dressed-up bed without a traditional bedspread if desired.
Conclusion
At one time, bed spreads were a go-to decorative element in nearly every bedroom. But as styles have trended more minimal and casual, bed spreads have declined in popularity and are seen by many as unnecessary or overly formal. However, bed spreads can still hold relevance for some—especially those wanting to evoke traditional or vintage appeal. For those drawn to bed spreads, choosing patterned materials in lighter colors and natural fabrics, and layering creatively helps give bed spreads a fresh, modern look. While not the decorative must-have they once were, bed spreads still have the potential to add comfort, color and creative flair when styled appropriately for today’s eclectic bedrooms.