The Layered Bed Trend and the History of White Sales

When I was a kid I remember my mother getting excited for white sales during the month of January. What I never understood is why January was the chosen month for sheets, quilts, and other bedding to go on sale. Today, a layered bed style is trending and creates opportunity to be more creative. Layers mean more pillows and blankets, which means that January is a good month to make bedding purchases when you can take advantage of the discounts. (This post contains affiliate links – see my privacy policy.)

Photo by Conrad Brothers Construction

I’m completely smitten by the layered bed trend. It feels so warm and cozy and is perfect for the fall and winter seasons. The bedroom above pairs a variety of patterns in soft earth tones. Just lovely!

Below, the pastel tones prove that layering works in spring and summer, too. If you don’t trust yourself to mix patterns, using a monochromatic approach might be the way to go. Everything blends so well in this pale blue and white bedroom.

Photo by Phoebe Howard

The walls in an industrial style bedroom are kept plain, allowing the mixed textiles to take center stage. 

Photo by Kim Gordon Designs

Another approach to try if you’re a little shy when mixing patterns and colors, is to keep your comforter and blankets in solid, similar colors. You can introduce bolder patterns and colors through the use of pillows. 

Photo by Kate Jackson Design

A French country bedroom features layers of linen pillows and bedding. The look is subtle and elegant.

Photo by Avenue Design

A cozy under-the-eaves bedroom enjoys a layered look in the same color family. Light brown walls add to the warmth of the space.

Photo by Kate Jackson Design

Designer Sarah Richardson enjoys working with color, as evidenced here in one of her bedrooms. She pairs a white and yellow quilt with striped and floral pillows, while the curtains sport a geometric pattern. 

Photo by Sarah Richardson Design

This rustic bedroom features my idea of a layered bed. A big puffy comforter folded on top of a beautiful quilt. During the winter months, I like my bedroom to be cold with plenty of blankets to keep me warm. I have a weighted blanket which is equivalent to having several blankets. 

Photo by Miller-Roodell Architects Ltd

Here’s another bright and cheery bedroom that proves you can have a layered bed during spring and summer.

Photo by Robinson Residential Design

So I did manage to find out that the first white sale was started in 1878 by famed Philadelphia department store owner, John Wanamaker. White bed linens were put on sale during the month of January to boost post-Christmas sales. Today, the sales aren’t limited to white bedding only, and often include other household items. 

I found lots of pretty quilts, comforters, and sheets – most of which are currently on sale. It’s always fun to buy new bedding, even if it’s just a new set of sheets. Click on any of the images for sources on where to buy.