When it comes to choosing bedding, one of the most common questions is whether all the pieces should match or if it’s okay to mix and match colours and patterns. There are good arguments on both sides of this debate. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and what looks best in your particular bedroom. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of having coordinated bedding versus mixing colours and patterns to help you decide what’s right for your space.
The Case for Matching Bedding
Here are some of the top reasons why you may want to stick to bedding that all matches in colour, pattern, and style:
- It creates a unified, pulled-together look.
- Matching bedding can help a room look cleaner and more orderly.
- It’s easier to shop for bedding if you just need to find pieces in coordinating colours and patterns.
- Mixing and matching takes more time, effort and skill to pull off.
- Matched bedding gives bedrooms a hotel-like feel.
- It’s traditional and classic.
- Matching sets are readily available at most stores.
If creating a calm, peaceful atmosphere is your goal, keeping bedding coordinated can help achieve that by limiting contrast and creating a serene, monochromatic look. The repetition of the same colours and patterns promotes harmony. This approach is especially well-suited to minimalist or neutral bedrooms.
The Upsides of Mixing and Matching Colours
While matching bedding has its advantages, there are also some great reasons to consider mixing colours and patterns:
- It allows you to incorporate multiple colours and styles you love.
- Mixing colours and patterns creates visual interest.
- It provides a way to add pops of colour to a neutral room.
- Eclectic, mismatched bedding suits bold, vibrant rooms.
- You can gradually collect bedding over time.
- Takes less planning – you can just buy pieces you like.
- Gives a personalized, collected-over-time look.
The key to successfully mixing different bedding is to stick to a cohesive colour palette. For example, pair navy, white, and red patterns together. Or combine different shades of green from light sage to deep emerald. This helps the bedding from looking too chaotic or random.
You can also tie the look together through the textures of the fabrics. Using all cottons or linens creates cohesion. Layering in blankets and throws that pick up the colour scheme also helps mix-and-match bedding appear purposefully designed.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether to go matched or mixed with your bedding, here are a few things to think about:
- What’s your decorating style? Matching suits traditional, minimalist, or neutral rooms. Mixing works better for modern, eclectic, or colourful rooms.
- What’s your comfort level with colour? If you tend to stick to one colour palette, matching may be best. If you want to incorporate many colours, mixing allows that flexibility.
- How often do you want to change it up? Mixing makes it easier to rotate different pieces in and out.
- What’s your budget? Coordinated sets can be more affordable. Mixing allows you to collect pieces over time.
- What’s the size of the room? Small spaces can look busier with many colours and patterns.
Take a look at your current bedroom and bedding. Does one particular approach stand out as a better fit? Go with your gut instinct. There’s no universally right or wrong answer.
Tips for Mixing and Matching
If you think mixing colours and patterns fits your style, here are some useful tips for pulling it off successfully:
- Stick to a cohesive colour palette of 2-4 colours
- Repeat colours from one item to another to create flow
- Consider both colour and pattern when pairing pieces
- Use texture to tie the look together through fabrics like linen or cotton
- Add layers like blankets that echo the colour scheme
- Choose one item as a focal point, like the duvet
- Mix complementary colours like navy and white
- Start with basics like solid sheets then layer in patterned items
- Choose patterns in similar scale – don’t mix large florals with narrow stripes
Taking a bit of time to plan your mix-and-match bedding ensures it looks intentional, not haphazard.
Example Colour Combinations
Here are some examples of cohesive colour palettes you can use when mixing and matching bedding:
| Colour Palette | Description |
|---|---|
| Navy, white, grey | Classic palette with neutral white and grey to balance strong navy |
| Pink, peach, blush | Different shades of pink keep it cohesive |
| Mint, sage green, white | Soft green tones with fresh white |
| Lavender, light blue, silver | Pretty palette inspired by flowers and sky |
| Brick red, tan, brown | Earthy natural tones create harmony |
| Yellow, blue, grey | Cheerful primary colours with neutral grey |
Putting it All Together
When designing your bedding, think about the mood you want to create and choose colours and patterns accordingly. Matching bedding promotes harmony and order. Mixing allows more freedom of expression.
Take your time playing with different colour combos and arrangements of patterns if taking a mix-and-match approach. Experiment with layers and textures. There are no hard and fast rules. Find the balance that you find visually pleasing and suits your personal style.
Bedding is the backdrop for the entire room. Whenever you need a change, switching up your linens is an easy way to give your bedroom a fresh new look. Don’t be afraid to have some fun with it! With the right planning and an eye for colour, you can create a beautiful bedroom oasis, whether you prefer matching or mixing bedding.
Conclusion
The choice between matching or mixing bedding comes down to personal preference. Matching creates order and harmony, while mixing allows more creativity and freedom. If mixing patterns and colours, stick to a cohesive palette and repeat colours throughout to tie the look together. Take into account your style, room size and comfort with colour when deciding what works best for your space. Bedding is the perfect place to express your aesthetic. Follow your instincts to create a bedroom you love to relax in.