Nothing elevates a bedroom faster than beautiful bedding. While new furniture or wall treatments can make a difference, it’s the bed that always draws the eye first. The fabrics you choose, the layers you add, and even the colours you select can completely change the feel of your room.
Creating a high-end look doesn’t have to mean spending thousands on designer sets. With a few thoughtful swaps and some layering tricks, you can recreate that luxury hotel or boutique bedroom aesthetic right at home.
Here are nine simple bedding swaps that will instantly make your bedroom look and feel more expensive.
9 Bedding Swaps That Instantly Make Your Bedroom Feel More Expensive
1. Upgrade To Premium Cotton Sheets
Nothing says luxury quite like cotton. Known for its softness and breathability, it brings a five-star hotel feel to any space. The finer yarns create a smooth, silky finish that not only looks refined but also lasts for years.
Choose a fitted sheet with a high thread count — ideally 400 or more — for that crisp, cool-to-the-touch feel when you slip into bed. You’ll notice an immediate difference in comfort and appearance.
If you’re looking for a long-lasting option, explore The Towel Shop’s Cotton Sheets, which offer that premium texture at a more affordable price point, available in classic colours to suit any interior palette.
2. Swap Flat Pillows For Plump, Supportive Ones
Flat, lifeless pillows can make even the most beautiful bedding look tired. The secret to a luxury-looking bed lies in the volume and layering of pillows. Invest in feather and Goose down pillows that maintain shape and add that inviting, cloud-like look.
Layer two large pillows at the back, followed by two medium ones, and finish with a smaller cushion or decorative bolster. This creates a structured, plush appearance reminiscent of hotel suites.
3. Introduce Ambient Lighting
Lighting has one of the strongest impacts on mood and luxury perception. Harsh overhead lights can make a room feel cold, while soft, layered lighting adds warmth and serenity.
Replace bright ceiling bulbs with warm-toned LEDs or install dimmable lights to adjust the glow as needed. Add a pair of bedside lamps with fabric or glass shades for a balanced, symmetrical look.
You can also add a small statement fixture above the bed — like a crystal pendant or matte gold sconce — for a refined, designer-inspired touch.
4. Swap Thin Curtains for Elegant Drapes
Window treatments are one of the most underrated luxury elements in a bedroom. Thin or short curtains can make the space feel unfinished, while full-length drapes create an instant sense of grandeur.
Choose floor-to-ceiling curtains in heavy fabrics like velvet, linen-blend, or cotton sateen. Neutral colours or muted jewel tones make the room feel calm and elevated.
If you prefer natural light during the day, layer sheer curtains beneath heavier ones. This double-layer approach mirrors what you’ll find in high-end hotels — both practical and elegant.
5. Refresh with a Statement Duvet Cover or Bedspread
The duvet cover is the visual centrepiece of your bedroom, so it deserves careful attention. A good-quality cover with a subtle sheen or pattern adds sophistication without overwhelming the space.
Opt for sateen or percale finishes for a polished look. Muted hues like champagne, charcoal, or dove grey feel timeless and expensive.
For a refined upgrade, explore The Towel Shop’s Duvet Covers, available in crisp cotton and soft microfibre blends. They’re easy to care for yet give that luxury aesthetic found in boutique hotels.
6. Add an Accent Rug Underfoot
A luxurious bedroom engages all senses, including touch. Adding a plush rug beneath your feet immediately enhances warmth and comfort.
Getting the rug sizing correct is key. Choose a rug that extends beyond the sides and foot of the bed for proportion and balance. Neutral or textured rugs — such as wool blends or jute — create a sophisticated, layered look.
Even a small accent rug near the bed can break up the flooring and make the space feel thoughtfully styled.
7. Incorporate Scent and Soft Sound
Luxury isn’t only visual, it’s also sensory. Introducing pleasant scents and calming sounds makes your bedroom feel more like a retreat.
Use scented candles, diffusers, or linen sprays with notes of lavender, sandalwood, or fresh cotton. Light one in the evening for a relaxing ambience that feels indulgent and peaceful.
Pair that with soft background sounds — like gentle instrumental music or a water fountain — to create a spa-like atmosphere that helps you unwind after long days.
8. Declutter and Curate Accessories
A luxury bedroom feels serene because it’s clutter-free. Instead of filling every surface, select just a few meaningful accessories and display them intentionally.
Choose matching bedside lamps, a small tray for essentials, and perhaps a single vase or framed artwork to add personality. The goal is a cohesive, minimalist aesthetic that feels balanced, not bare.
When your surfaces are clear, your bedding and textures become the visual highlight — giving the room that calm, high-end atmosphere found in boutique hotels.
9. Add Layers of Comfort with Throws and Cushions
Even with the best sheets and duvets, it’s the finishing touches that make your bedroom look designer-level.
Layer throws, cushions, and runners to add warmth, texture, and depth. Drape a quilted bed runner across the base of your bed for that boutique look, or fold a lightweight throw diagonally for a relaxed vibe.
For inspiration, browse TheTowelShop’s Throws Collection — available in cotton, fleece, and microfibre fabrics — perfect for layering without bulk.
Mix materials like cotton, velvet, and faux fur, staying within the same colour palette to achieve harmony and richness.
Bonus Tip: Add a Touch of Greenery
Plants have a magical way of softening a room. A small potted plant, fresh flowers, or a tall floor plant near the window brings life and colour to your bedroom.
Besides visual appeal, greenery helps purify the air and enhances the calm, natural aesthetic found in many luxury interiors. Choose low-maintenance options like peace lilies, snake plants, or eucalyptus stems for effortless freshness.
The Secret Behind a Luxury Bedroom Look
Each of these small upgrades enhances texture, comfort, and ambience — the three pillars of a luxurious bedroom.
By combining quality bedding, warm lighting, rich fabrics, and thoughtful styling, you can transform an ordinary room into a serene escape.
Luxury isn’t defined by cost but by attention to detail. Crisp cotton sheets, a soft area rug, or thoughtfully placed lighting and greenery can elevate your space instantly.
Explore more premium bedding options from The Towel Shop to help you recreate a five-star retreat at home.
