How To Arrange Pillows On A King Sized Bed
There’s definitely an art to bed styling, how to style a king bed is often overlooked in bedroom design, but nailing it can totally transform your space. We look to our bedrooms to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of life. It's actually very easy to create your home sanctuary once you know how.
The way you order, layer, and set out your decorative pillows for bed and other accessories has a big impact on the overall vibe of your room. It’s why those hotel beds always look so inviting and why magazine-worthy rooms seem fancier than ours. So, if you’re wondering why your bedroom doesn’t quite have that "wow" factor, it could all come down to how you’re arranging those decorative bed pillows!
Layout Options of Pillows on A King Bed Chart
This chart shows 4 different ways to style your king bed with pillows. From simple to grand the option is completely up to you.
An Australian king-sized bed is 183.50cm wide by 203cm long, giving ample space for the perfect look.
In the diagram below, the size of the blue Euro pillows at the back is 65cm each (they can also be 60x60cm), which fills the width of the bed.
Choosing the Right Pillow Sizes and Quantities for a King Bed
When it comes to picking the perfect combination of pillows for your king bed, proportion is everything. With all that extra width (a generous 183.5cm across!), you have room to play, but you also want your arrangement to feel balanced—not overcrowded or underwhelming.
Here’s a simple guide to help you nail that luxe, layered look:
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European Pillows (60x60cm or 65x65cm): Start with two or three euros as your base layer. They’re just the right size to create height against the headboard and fill a king bed’s width without leaving awkward gaps. These look best in a color or pattern that contrasts your bedhead, offering that hotel-style plushness.
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Standard or King Pillows: Layer two king pillows (50x90cm) or standard pillows (50x75cm) in front of your euros. For king beds, king-sized pillows look especially tailored, but standards still work for a softer, more relaxed feel.
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Accent Pillows: Add one or two cushions, usually around 50x50cm or a pair of 45x45cm, to inject color, print, or texture. For a bolder look, opt for a single, oversized lumbar cushion (like 35x90cm or even longer) across the front—it’s effortless yet makes a statement.
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Layering Tip: Odd numbers (three euros, three accent cushions) tend to look more stylish and less staged. But don’t feel obligated to pile on—sometimes, just a couple of thoughtfully chosen cushions is all your bed needs.
Remember, your choices should reflect both your personal style and your willingness to make the bed each morning! If you want things simple, stick to euros and a statement cushion. Love a grand, magazine-inspired look? Go all in with layered king shams, patterned accents, and a dramatic lumbar.
Most importantly: there are no strict rules, just combinations that make your bed (and your room) feel more inviting to you.
Traditional King Bed Pillow Arrangements
One classic way to arrange pillows on a king bed is by starting with three large Euro pillows at the back—these square pillows (around 65cm or 60x60cm) do a great job of framing the bed and creating a plush, inviting backdrop. Ideally, choose Euro pillows in a shade or fabric that stands out against your bedhead to bring some extra pop to your setup.
In front of your Euros, layer two decorative accent pillows, roughly 55cm square (think 22x22 inches). Opt for patterns or colors that contrast with the Euros for added visual interest. Then, complete the look with a smaller, central cushion—usually a 50x50cm or 20x20 inch pillow—to tie everything together.
This simple formula is tried-and-true for a reason: it brings balance, elegance, and that signature “finished” look you see in stylish hotel suites and glossy magazines.
The King Bed Advantage
Creating the perfect bed style is all about balancing proportions with your bedding, bedhead, and décor. Styling a bed isn’t just about function—it’s about making a statement! Whether you're going for a simple or more dramatic look, the key is to layer everything thoughtfully to really show off your room’s vibe.
Now, there’s no right or wrong way to arrange pillows and cushions on your bed, but I do have one golden rule: keep your sleeping pillows at the back. Sure, it might seem logical to put them up front since they’re smaller, but trust me—those crinkled pillows can throw off your whole aesthetic! Instead, let the decorative ones steal the show while the sleeping pillows do their job behind the scenes.
How to Dress a Bed Like a Designer
If you’ve ever wondered how to dress a bed like a designer, here’s the secret: it’s all in the layers! Start with some plain or decorative bed cushions as your base, then layer forward like a pro. By also using beautiful materials like French linen, it gives a classic look worthy of a magazine cover. Bed cushions styling isn’t just about tossing on random pillows—each one, from the smallest accent to the largest backrest, should work together in perfect harmony. Add a cozy throw blanket for that extra touch of style (and snuggle factor). Whether you’re mastering how to arrange pillows on a king size bed or figuring out how to dress a bed with a throw, you’ll have your bedroom looking effortlessly elegant in no time!
Tips for Choosing Accent and Decorative Pillows for a King Size Bed
Selecting accent and decorative pillows for a king bed is your chance to infuse personality and comfort into your space—so let’s make it count! Here are some designer-approved tips to get you started:
- Play with Proportion: Begin with Euro pillows (ideally three for a king bed) as your backdrop—they span the width of the bed and create a plush, inviting base.
- Contrast Matters: Choose pillow covers in colors or patterns that pop against your headboard or main bedding. This contrast is what makes hotel beds look so effortless and elegant.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Instead of tossing together every pillow you own, layer with intention. Place larger pillows at the back (Euros), followed by standard or queen shams, then layer in smaller decorative cushions or accent pillows.
- Mix Sizes and Shapes: A visually appealing arrangement often includes a mix of square Euro pillows, smaller square accents (such as 20x20" or 22x22"), and a statement lumbar pillow. The lumbar pillow can act as an eye-catching centerpiece—especially if it features bold prints or rich textures.
- Keep Cohesion: Patterns are great, but keep the palette cohesive. If you’re going for florals, try to echo a color from the floral pillow elsewhere in the bedding or décor.
- Function Meets Flair: Remember, decorative pillows shouldn’t just look good—they should feel good too! Looking to opt for ethical quality faux feather inserts, shop our Faux Feather Insert Fillers for a plush, snuggly effect.
- Edit for Ease: Too many small pillows can get fussy. Keep to three or four key styles for a bed that’s as easy to make as it is to admire.
By sticking to these tips, you’ll create a balanced, chic, and comfortable king bed that's both functional and eye-catching—ready for lounging or just admiring from the doorway.
How to Style a King Bed With European Pillows
When it comes to styling a king bed, European pillows are your secret weapon! Pop three of these beauties across the width of your bed to perfectly cover that extra space. Not only do they add a touch of height and elegance, but they’re also incredibly comfy for leaning back with a book or morning coffee. Think of them as the foundation of your king bed pillow arrangement—once they're in place, you can easily layer on smaller decorative pillows and accent pillows to complete your look. Euro pillows on bed bring both style and comfort, making your bed look effortlessly luxurious!
Tried-and-True King Bed Pillow Arrangements
Let’s dive into some classic combinations to get your creative juices flowing:
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The Traditional Trio:
Start with three Euro pillows (65x65cm or 60x60cm), arranged neatly across the back. In front of these, add two 22x22” accent pillows for a hit of colour or pattern. Finish with a single 20x20” accent pillow front and centre for a polished, inviting look. This setup is timeless and always looks pulled together. -
Sophisticated Layers:
Begin with your three Euro shams at the back, then layer two 20x30” standard shams in front—these can match your bedding for a cohesive feel or be an accent for extra flair. Top it off with a lumbar pillow (14x36” or 14x48”) to draw the eye and bring everything together. This arrangement is perfect if you want a designer-inspired, hotel-chic vibe. -
Minimalist Magic:
If you prefer a fuss-free approach (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a quick bed-making routine?), stick with three Euro shams at the back—these can even be sized down to 24x24” for a slightly sleeker profile. Layer a single, extra-long lumbar pillow (14x48”) in front, ideally in a bold colour or pattern. This way, you get just enough interest without going overboard, and making the bed stays blissfully easy.
Using Contrasting Colors and Patterns for Maximum Impact
If you really want your king bed pillow arrangement to pop, contrast is your best friend. Start by anchoring your look with three Euro pillows across the back—these are your pillars and should stand out against your headboard. For instance, if your bedhead is a soft neutral, opt for Euros in a bold jewel tone or a textured fabric for a classic-meets-contemporary vibe. Conversely, a statement headboard pairs perfectly with subtle, light-hued Euro pillows to keep things balanced.
Next, bring in a couple of accent pillows (about 22x22cm works great) and don't shy away from mixing things up! Think a punchy patterned fabric or a print in a color that ties in with your bedding or curtains. This is your chance to showcase some personality—stripes, geometrics, or even floral designs can all play together as long as you stick within your room's color palette.
To finish, add a long lumbar pillow at the very front. This one’s your star player: choose a cover with the boldest pattern or brightest color for a final shot of visual interest. The key is making sure each layer draws the eye and stands out just enough from the one behind it—so your bedding becomes an artful display, not just an afterthought. Mixing pattern and color like this might seem daring, but when you layer with intention, the result is pure designer magic.
Layering Decorative Pillows
"When you're thinking about how to style a bed with pillows, it’s all about finding that sweet spot of balance! Whether you’re into a sleek, minimalist vibe or love going all out with layers upon layers, there’s a king size bed pillow arrangement for you. Get creative and play around with height and dimension—mix smaller throw pillows with larger European pillows on the bed to nail that perfect balance. Modern king bed pillow arrangements are all about mixing sizes and textures, so have fun and let your pillows do the talking!
A Foolproof Arrangement for a Modern, Layered Look
If you want a designer-approved setup that always looks polished, start with three European shams lined up along the headboard—these create a foundation of height and softness. Next, layer in two or three standard 20x30 pillow shams in front of the Euros. Here’s where you can play: make these shams pop with an accent colour or bold pattern, or keep them subtle to match your bedding, letting the Euro shams bring the visual interest. To finish, add a long lumbar pillow (think 14x36 or even 14x48) at the very front for that touch of sophistication and a hint of modern flair.
This simple layering trick works wonders on a king bed, giving you that coveted boutique hotel look—effortless, inviting, and totally put together. Don’t be afraid to swap in your favourite textures or mix up the patterns until it feels just right for your style!"
Minimalist King Bed Pillow Arrangement
If you prefer a more pared-back look (and honestly, who doesn’t crave a quick bed-making routine on busy mornings?), try the minimalist approach! Start with three euro shams across the back—these can be sized down to 24x24 covers if you want a sleeker profile. Choose euro pillows that contrast with your headboard for a designer touch. In front, layer a single extra-long lumbar pillow—something in a 14x48 size works beautifully. This lumbar is your chance to go bold: think patterns, pops of colour, or a fun texture to draw the eye and anchor your arrangement. The best part? This setup keeps things visually interesting without making your bed a daily obstacle course.
Whether you go for the minimalist setup or a more layered look, the key is to let your personality shine through. Mix and match, experiment, and remember—there are no strict rules, just what feels right for your space and your morning routine!
Mastering Bed Styling:
Tips and Ideas for Arranging Pillows on a King Bed
If you're looking for bed styling ideas, platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube are gold mines for inspiration. On Instagram, you can explore hashtags like #bedroomgoals or #bedstylingtips to see how designers and influencers arrange pillows on a bed and style different bedroom elements. Pinterest offers boards filled with step-by-step guides on arranging pillows on a king-size bed, showcasing creative ways to play with textures, colours, and patterns. For a more in-depth approach, YouTube tutorials are great for visual learners, with videos dedicated to everything from how to style a king bed with pillows to selecting the perfect set of pillows for bed. With these resources, you'll also discover fresh bedroom cushion ideas and the latest bed styling tips that can transform your space into a chic, cozy retreat.
