This article will help you outfit your perfect luxury bed with an overview of various high-end bedding topper options, including coverlets, quilts, matelassés and duvet covers.

You deserve a bed that’s an absolute oasis of luxury and comfort. And here at Fine Linen and Bath, we've got everything you need to furnish your perfect bed. Whether you’re a fine linen connoisseur or newly beginning your journey into luxury textiles, our design team is ready to guide you through the enchanting world of premium bedding.

As luxury linen retailers, we spend a good bit of time discussing sheets, which an essential layer to any inviting bed. This blog moves out a layer or two to showcase the pieces that can transform your bed into a design masterpiece: coverlets, matelassés, quilts, and duvet covers. These bed toppers do more than just cover your sheets and blankets; they are finishing touches that help set the tone and style of your (consider the different vibes of an airy percale duvet cover, a richly textured jacquard coverlet, or a tailored coverlet).

Read on for the ideas and information you need to select a bed topper that is stylish, indulgent, and uniquely your own.

Coverlets: Decorative and Functional

A coverlet is a decorative and functional bed covering that lays on top of the bed, concealing the mattress and protecting the sheeting and blankets underneath. Coverlets are typically more tightly woven than blankets and range from simple to ornate in style. A well-chosen coverlet can enhance the sophistication of any bedding ensemble. Select one with a matte finish for a casual look; a sateen finish for a sleeker vibe; or one woven with intricate designs and raised patterns (matelassé). Coverlets are wonderfully versatile; they can be used between sheets and a duvet cover as a layer in a cozy winter bed, or alone above the flat sheet in warmer temperatures. Many coverlets are crafted from machine-washable cotton, which makes them easy to care for at home.

Pictured is the Sferra Giza 45 Quattro includes matching sham and blanket cover

Matelassé: A Quilted Pattern Without the Weight

A matelassé, sometimes referred to as a bedspread or blanket cover, is a specific type of coverlet. It features stitching in intricate designs and raised patterns for a “quilted” look without the heavy weight. Matelassé fabrics are woven on a special machine known as a jacquard loom. The elegant texture makes them a sophisticated option. Like other coverlets, a matelassé goes between your flat sheet and duvet cover (or as a top layer in warmer weather).

Pictured is the Matouk Pearl Bedding includes matching sham, coverlet and bed skirt

A Quilted Coverlet: Designed for Extra Warmth and Beauty

Designed as heavier, warm layers, quilted coverlets are filled with insulated polyester batting sewn between two pieces of fabric. These are most often sateen in finish, and woven in a variety of pleasing patterns that can suit any style. They come in a range of thicknesses and are often paired with a blanket for additional warmth. At one time, quilted coverlets were quite popular; in recent years, however, many luxury brands have reduced production of quilted coverlets to one or two styles, or even discontinued them. This is likely because quilted coverlets require dry cleaning due to the insulated filling. The exception to this trend is the Home Treasures brand, which has become the go-to source for custom quilted coverlets , with dozens of options for both weave and color to suit your bedroom décor.

Duvet Cover: For the Quintessential Fluffy Bed

A duvet cover is a decorative protective cover that goes on your duvet insert (note: duvet inserts/stuffers are quilted bed coverings filled with feathers, wool, or synthetic alternatives. They are sometimes referred to as “comforters”) Soft and inviting, a duvet cover is a must for the quintessential “fluffy” bed. They come in a variety of different material choices, and are often made from machine washable cotton fabric. To maintain a consistent design ethos, we recommend matching the duvet cover to your chosen sheet collection. If the bed sheet pattern features a touch of color and embroidered line finish, the duvet cover will follow suit, normally a framed design on the top of the bed. If the sheets are a bold color, the duvet cover will mirror that as well. Many sheet collections include a complete bedding set with a coordinating duvet cover. (Pro tip: Look for a comforter with sewn-in corner loops and a duvet cover with ties to hold it in place).

Finishing the Look: Bed Skirts, Shams, Pillows and Throws

Once you've settled on your bed topper, it's time to finish your bedroom's look with accessories such as a bed skirt, shams, pillows, and throws:

Bed skirts, also known as dust ruffles, cover the sides of your box spring and space under the bed while adding an essential style component. Choose a gathered bed skirt for the traditional look of appealing folds, or opt for the tailored aesthetic and straight lines of a box pleated skirt. If you prefer a more contemporary look, consider wrapping your exposed box spring with a cover made to coordinate with your bedding ensemble. Our design team is happy to discuss options that will work best with your bed frame.

Shams and decorative pillows are added over the standard sleeping pillows. Shams should match a coverlet or quilt if one is used; if not, match to the duvet cover. Lastly, decorative pillows can add a touch of pizzazz and personality to the bed. Pull ideas from the surrounding decor and for recommendations, feel free to email us a photo of your space and we'll be happy to send you some ideas!

Throw blankets add color and style as well as provide a sense of comfort and warmth to the bedroom. In choosing a throw, draw your inspiration from the room's décor: fabric, artwork, curtains, or paint colors. You can even pick up color from the décor in an adjoining master bath; this is a creative way to connect the two spaces.

Protect Your Investment: Proper Washing and Care of Luxury Linens

Luxury bed linens are an investment that—with proper care—will last a long time. Always follow manufacturer care guidelines, and never attempt to machine wash an item that should be dry cleaned. You will find that many coverlets and duvet covers are machine washable. A cotton coverlet without can usually be laundered by itself in cold or warm water on the gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent without added bleach, whiteners or softeners. Do not use a liquid fabric softener, as these can damage the cotton fibers. Tumble dry on low heat. Remove promptly to prevent wrinkling. Remember that natural fibers will shrink to some extent.

Choosing the proper laundry soap for washing luxury bed linens is also essential. Harsh detergents will weaken fabric thread fibers, wearing them out and causing them to look dull. We recommend using Heritage Park Luxury All-Purpose Detergent. This concentrated, pH-neutral formula is made with a short list of plant-based ingredients, including a proprietary enzyme blend, to clean and care for fine linens. For washing silk, wool, cashmere, and other natural fibers, choose enzyme-free Heritage Park Luxury Silk and Wool Detergent. Always follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines.

Our Clients Also Ask These Questions

What is a duvet cover used for?
A duvet cover is a protective fabric cover that goes around a comforter; it is also decorative, and can be made in a matching pattern to the sheets.

Do you use a duvet cover by itself?
You would put a duvet insert or comforter inside a duvet cover. However, some people prefer to forego the top sheet and sleep under a duvet cover on top of a fitted sheet.

What is a bedspread vs. comforter?
Bedspread is a general term for any top layer to a bedding ensemble. Bedspreads can be quilted or plain. A comforter, is typically a thick, quilted blanket that has a feather, down, or artificial fiber fill. It can be placed inside a duvet cover.

What is the difference between a quilt and a matelassé?
Matelassé is a single layer of fabric woven on a jacquard loom. A quilt is a double layer with batting in between.