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Headboards might be a bedroom staple, but I’ve always avoided them at all costs. After spending the bulk of my childhood with a formal, four-post canopy, the thought of having a formal bed — complete with a headboard — felt a little archaic. And, thanks to a metal platform, you can give your mattress the same lift and support for less.
However, I had a design epiphany last month. You see, I was on a socially-distanced work trip at the MacArthur Place in Sonoma and fell in love with my room’s headboard. But, make no mistake, this wasn’t your average headboard. Instead, this one was decked out with headboard cushions: two, large bouclé pillows strapped onto the bed’s cloth-clad backing. Turns out, I’m not the only one who is low-key obsessed with this budding bedroom trend.
“A trend we’ve been seeing pick up over the past few seasons is interchangeable headboard cushions on beds,” explains Peri Tucker, upholstery buyer at Anthropologie, which currently sells a bunch of headboard cushions. “We see our customer gravitating towards these styles that make a statement in the bedroom with the mix of materiality: wood, brass accents, and upholstery.”
Headboard cushions strike that perfect balance of form and function. To state the obvious, these pillows offer some extra comfort if you’re, say, answering binge-watching your latest streaming obsession or answering emails from bed. (Admit it, we’ve all been there.) They also offer an unexpected detail that gives your bed an ultra-cozy edge. And, as Tucker points out, you can customize your headboard cushions to your heart’s desire.
“What’s great about this trend is the versatility to change up the look of your bedroom by just swapping out the cushion,” Tucker explains. “You can play with texture, print, and pattern by layering in fun pillows. It’s also a super affordable way to give your bedding a refresh!”
After spending so many years on team “no headboard,” I’m seriously considering adding a (gasp!) headboard and set of cushions to my setup. If you’re thinking about doing the same, check out the shoppable options below:
Anthropologie Hemming Linen Headboard Cushion
If you want to bring a textural edge to your bedroom, check out this one from Anthropologie. With a linen cushion and thin, leather straps, it’s cool and eye-catching in equal measure.
West Elm Arne Pillow Queen
As a design enthusiast, your bedroom is just as unique as you are — so why should your headboard cushion be any different? If you want to give your setup a personal twist, check out this pillow from West Elm. The choices run the gamut from velvet to linen, so there’s bound to be the perfect combo to suit your style.
Anyone who likes the idea of headboard cushions, but isn’t exactly sold on buying a new headboard, will find a lot to love about OYOY’s Hokei style. This freestanding pillow can be directly hung on your wall, offering the best of both worlds.
Holistic Habitat The Rachael Queen Headboard Cushion Set
Think of this option from Holistic Habitat the headboard-equivalent to a cushy, cozy armchair. The leather will give your bedroom dapper flair, while the plush cushions are perfect for sitting upright in your bed. Best of all? The leather is sealed, so it can be cleaned without compromising its rich cognac color.
Truro Bed Headboard Cushion Set
If your style skews more minimalist, feast your eyes on the Truro headboard cushion set. Between the slim silhouette and versatile leather exteriors, this option offers a pared-down alternative to the budding trend. This one might be available in multiple colors, but that midnight blue will give your bedroom a subtle pop of color.
