As a home wellness writer, I strongly believe that a bed benefits from minimalism for a more soothing atmosphere. But for some reason, around this time of year, I feel the need to spice things up a bit — and patterned quilts are an underrated way to do so.
With traditional patterns and ornate trim being some of the biggest bedding trends this year, it makes sense to lean into these indulgent layers. Especially since many beds treat patterned quilts as a decorative finish rather than a fabric to tuck into.
So I spoke to an interior designer for some advice on how to style them and rounded up the coolest designs to match an array of interior aesthetics.
How Do You Style Patterned Quilts?
"Everyone spends their styling budget on the headboard and pillows and completely forgets the quilt is the biggest single surface in the room," says interior designer Alana Marie. "I used a blue denim patchwork on the sofa bed in a tiny 500-square-foot cabin at Paradise Cove (pictured above) for exactly this reason."
"It brought color and history to the room without adding a single extra object," she adds. "A patterned quilt on a bed does the same job. It adds warmth and a sense of story that minimal bedding just can't."
She tells me that dressing a bed with a vintage or artisan-patterned quilt lets you layer in a few solid pillows and a textured throw without the room feeling busy, because the pattern's already doing the heavy lifting. So if you're as drawn in by these plush coverlets as we are, here are some cool designs to shop.
This beautiful quilt from OKA sports a minimalist floral pattern and a red trim that feels like the perfect transitional piece for summer.
Since blue is one of the best bedding colors for sleep, this abstract patchwork quilt from TOAST is worth styling in your room.
I love the interspersed patterns and colors on this cotton quilt from Oliver Bonas. It feels like a nostalgic baby blanket all grown up.
This Diamond Patchwork Quilt from John Lewis is a lovely example of how quickly a plain bed recipe can feel less serious and so much more inviting.
If you prefer a laid back pattern, this striped quilt from John Lewis makes your bedroom feel a step away from a beach cottage.
You can also keep the patterns simple with an applique finish like this pretty quilt from Graham & Green.
This Pink Abstract Wiggle Stripe Quilted Bedspread from Next might be one of my favorites for summer bed recipes.
If you have a no-frills white bedscape for that hotel room feel, you can lighten the atmosphere with this frilled quilted bedspread.
And if you love the idea of a soft quilt to wrap yourself in but you're not quite into patterns, this style features subtle darts for a whisper of a pattern.
Another trend that's twisting traditionalism to fit contemporary interiors is bed valances. They frame the base of your bed and elevate the space you sleep in.
And for more design advice, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.
