#therdaway: Pillowtalk

- EDITION #3 -

Growing up, making your bed first thing in the morning was always a chore, and for many of us, we resented it. What was the point if you were just going to get back in it at the end of the day?

I don’t know about you, but after being at home all the time now, I appreciate climbing into crisp tucked sheets every night. The sense of relaxation that comes with a simple, but aesthetically pleasing bed can do wonders in fostering healthy habits, developing restful sleep patterns, and having a positive impact on your day.

Of course you can haphazardly just throw your sheets over your pillow in a ruffled mess and call it a day… but why not take just an extra minute to make it look like something you find at a five-star hotel? Remember, aesthetics are key!

#1: BASE LAYERS

Let’s start with the most important but commonly forgotten step - the sheets! Sheets are the foundation of the bed. Itchy, loose, or crunchy sheets that feel like paper are sure to keep you up all night. The appearance and feel of crisp, clean sheets are what cures restlessness.

I suggest pure white sheets. These fit any color palette and are the easiest to clean by simply throwing in some bleach. My favorite go-to suggestion for clients would be to purchase from Parachute Home or Brooklinen!

Now that you have your sheets, the next step is actually putting them on. I want fast & easy in the morning so I am a firm proponent of the corner tuck method. It gives your flat sheet a firm fit and provides a uniform appearance. Here’s a great how to video!

#2: COMFORTER & DUVET COVERS

Now comes the debate of the century, do you use a comforter or a duvet cover? Honestly, this is wholeheartedly up to you, but my personal preference is a duvet cover for its multitude of options and easy cleaning benefits. Whichever route you go, I suggest looking for both texture and color, but shy away from patterns as we want a simple and chic aesthetic.

This layer is for looks and coziness in cold winter nights, but an essential year-round item. If you go the route of a duvet cover, you will need an insert. I always suggest getting a premium down or down-alternative because you want that cloud comfort to last a longer period. Tip: Make sure to get a duvet cover that has corner straps on the inside to tie your insert in place!

When making your bed with your top layer, there are two methods I suggest. (1) The simple quarter fold from the top, this provides a clean bed look with enough room at the top to show off your white sheets and layering of throw pillows. (2) In the summer-time go for the triple envelope fold method at the foot of your bed, allowing for easy bed making in the morning.

#3: FINISHING TOUCHES

Now it’s tome for the fun to begin! This is where you can let your personality shine - choosing pillows, throws, and/or quilts to match your taste.

First and foremost, pillows you sleep on are different than the throw pillows you use to spruce up the look. I always suggest going with a down or down-alternative pillow ranging in firmness depending on if you are a side, stomach, or back sleeper. Make sure you research what firmness matches your sleep style… no one wants to have an aching neck the next morning! I also always, always, ALWAYS suggest silk pillow covers. I am a huge advocate of proper skin & hair care and trust me when I say once you purchase a silk pillowcase you will never go back.

Once you have your sleeping pillows figured out, you can get creative with your throw pillows! I say no less than 3, no more than 5. If you like the modern look - go with a large lumbar body pillow and then layer with three different colors, styles, and textures of smaller throw pillow ranging in size. Whatever you do, do not get matching pillows! Always try to get three different pieces. If you have a more traditional style, then just switch that lumbar pillow out for two oversized 20x20 decorative pillows. Don’t forget the karate chop for the finishing touch!

Last but not least, layer with a quilted or plush throw blanket. Tip: The trick is to either pinch in the center and simply “throw” it on to your bed and let it fall in place organically or fold and lay it casually on the corner at the end of your bed.

I challenge you for the second half of 2020 to make your bed everyday and then let us know at The Studio how it changed your lifestyle. I strongly believe what was once a chore, will be something you instinctively do on a daily basis. Remember that making your bed encourages better decisions, brings motivation and lowers stress. If you would like specific recommendations go ahead and comment down below or contact us! If you spruced up your bed after reading this, we want to see it! Please share on Instagram and tag @therdastudio and use the hashtag #theRDAway.

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Stay Creative,

P.S. (The Design Diaries will be my place where I unwind every week to talk to you guys about what is going on in my life plus anything you guys want to personally hear about... so please leave in the comments below if there is a special topic you want me to touch base on, as well as, feedback so I can curate my posts based on what you want to read!)