Coverlet Guide and Style Suggestions

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Coverlet Guide and Style Suggestions

A featured product line here at Peacock Alley and a favorite of designers and home decorators alike is our delightful collection of coverlets. In addition to our finely textured signature matelassés, we also offer quilted, garment washed, and tailored pique coverlets. But if you’re not familiar with coverlets or their use, you may find yourself scratching your head about what to do with these beautiful pieces. Read on to find out!

What is a coverlet?

If you’re unfamiliar with the world of fine linens and luxury bedding design, you may never have run across the term coverlet before. Simply, a coverlet is a top layer for your bed which is lighter weight than duvets or comforters, and isn’t quite as long as an old-fashioned bedspread. You have have also heard them referred to quilts or bedspreads, but they are essentially the same thing with subtle differences.

Coverlets are excellent choices for mild or hot weather climates, or they can easily be layered with heavier pieces when the weather turns colder. They’ll take up less space in your linen closet than a duvet or comforter, so they’re easier to switch out for a change in style. And they’re typically made from heavier textured fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle, so they tend to be an easier care option.

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How should you style a coverlet?

In design, coverlets are often used to tame the fluffiness of a down duvet, or to add texture and depth to a bedding ensemble. They can be paired with matching shams or used with coordinating colors for a less formal look.

There are three main ways to make a bed with a coverlet, and depending on your needs, you may want to switch between them depending on the temperature.

First, you can use a coverlet directly over your top sheet, with no added blanket or duvet. This is a classic, clean look and ideally suited for summer’s heat. For a bit of extra color, you may choose to add a bed scarf or a folded blanket to the foot of the bed when it’s not in use.

Next, make the bed as above, but fold your duvet or comforter in thirds at the foot of the bed. This look is wonderful for those spring or autumn months when you’re never quite sure if you might need another layer as temperatures drop during the night.

Finally, you can make your bed with the duvet on top of the sheets, and then place the coverlet over the top. This is excellent for the coldest winter nights, and also a wonderful way to tame the puffiness of a thick and soft duvet into a more sleek and modern look.

No matter how you choose to style your coverlet, we think you’ll find them to be an essential piece for a well-dressed bed!

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