10 Best Scalloped-edge Cushion Shams Creators Praise
Nostalgia & New Beginnings: Why Scalloped-edge Cushion Shams Steal My Heart
There’s just something about scalloped edges that takes me back to my grandmother’s sunroom—the one with the faded floral cushions and lace curtains swaying in the breeze. Maybe you have a memory like that, too. Or maybe you just crave that blend of timeless charm and modern polish for your own space. Either way, scalloped-edge cushion shams aren’t just a passing trend. According to some of my favorite YouTube home decor experts—think Alexandra Gater, Lone Fox, and The Sorry Girls—they’re the ultimate secret for making any sofa, bed, or reading nook feel inviting and curated.
Today, I’m sharing the 10 best scalloped-edge cushion shams that these creators rave about. Whether you’re after cozy cottage vibes or a punchy pop of color, I’ll walk you through each pick, what makes them special, and how they might fit into your everyday life. Grab a cup of tea and let’s get comfy!
What Makes a Great Scalloped Cushion Sham?
Before I jump in, here’s what I always look for (and what the pros recommend):
- Quality fabric: Cotton or linen blends hold up beautifully.
- Neat, even scallops: No one wants limp or uneven edges.
- Colorfast dyes: So your shams stay vibrant wash after wash.
- Concealed zipper or envelope closure: For a clean, uncluttered look.
- Right size: 18×18″ is most versatile, but measure your cushions!
And always—consider how it’ll fit with the rest of your decor. I love mixing and matching textures and tones for a layered look.
1. Anthropologie Rivulets Scalloped Velvet Pillow Cover
If you follow Alexandra Gater’s channel, you’ve seen her gush about Anthropologie’s Rivulets pillow covers. I finally splurged on one after her living room refresh video—and wow.
Details:
- Material: Plush polyester velvet
- Colors: Dusty Rose, Moss Green, Sapphire, Ivory
- Size: 20″x20″
- Closure: Hidden zipper
The velvet feels upscale but approachable—it almost glows in sunlight. The scalloped edge is deep and pronounced, giving it a romantic, high-end touch. I love how it instantly softens my leather sofa, but it looks just as stunning layered on a crisp white bedspread.
Why You’ll Love It:
It’s great for adding texture and warmth in fall and winter but transitions easily into spring with lighter colors. Plus, it holds its shape even after months of use.
2. Pottery Barn Kids Scallop Edge Pillow Sham
Yes, it’s technically from the kids’ collection—but don’t let that stop you! Lone Fox (Drew Scott) showed these in his “Budget Bedroom Makeover” and I was hooked.
Details:
- Material: 100% cotton percale
- Colors: White with blush pink or navy trim
- Size: Standard (20″x26″)
- Closure: Envelope
The percale fabric is crisp yet soft, and the contrast piping on the scallops adds a preppy twist. I’ve washed mine at least a dozen times—no fading or fraying.
Why You’ll Love It:
Perfect for layering with other patterns or just adding subtle detail to a minimalist room. These are also an easy entry point if you’re new to scalloped decor.
3. Serena & Lily Harbor Scallop Pillow Cover
The Sorry Girls featured these in their “Coastal Bedroom Refresh,” and they’re every bit as dreamy as they look online.
Details:
- Material: Linen/cotton blend
- Colors: Classic Navy, Sky Blue, White
- Size: 20″x20″
- Closure: Hidden zipper
The linen blend drapes beautifully and feels breathable against your skin—ideal for lounging. The scallop is subtle but noticeable, making it easy to mix with other bold patterns.
Why You’ll Love It:
The craftsmanship really stands out. If you want that “I summer on Cape Cod” energy year-round, this is your sham.
4. Etsy: WrenBirdArts Custom Scalloped Edge Pillow Covers
Nothing feels quite as special as something handmade. When Kiva Brent did her Etsy haul, these custom covers from WrenBirdArts stopped me in my tracks.
Details:
- Material: Oeko-Tex certified linen
- Colors: Over 15 options—including Mustard, Terracotta, Sage
- Size: Customizable (16″x16″, 18″x18″, 20″x20″)
- Closure: Envelope
The stitching is impeccable and you can request custom trim colors to match your palette. The linen gets softer with every wash—a joy for tactile folks like me.
Why You’ll Love It:
No two are exactly alike. If you want to support a small maker while getting something totally unique, this is the way to go.
5. H&M Home Scalloped Cushion Cover
For those who want to dip a toe into the trend without splurging—H&M Home delivers. Lone Fox used these in his “Affordable Decor Finds” video and I ordered three immediately.
Details:
- Material: Cotton canvas
- Colors: Light Pink, White, Beige
- Size: 18″x18″
- Closure: Concealed zipper
They’re surprisingly sturdy (my dog uses one as a pillow!) and the subtle scallop adds just enough interest to plain bedding or a reading nook.
Why You’ll Love It:
Budget-friendly and easy to switch out for seasonal updates. These wash well and don’t lose their shape—a major win.
6. Target Opalhouse Designed with Jungalow™ Scallop Velvet Throw Pillow
If you follow Justina Blakeney (or anyone who loves boho maximalism), you’ve seen these at Target.
Details:
- Material: Poly velvet with poly fill
- Colors: Emerald Green, Coral Pink, Mustard Yellow
- Size: 18″x18″
- Closure: Sewn shut (spot clean only)
The plushness is next-level—this isn’t just a cover; it comes filled and ready to toss on your sofa. The scallop detail is bold and playful.
Why You’ll Love It:
Instantly brightens up any space. Perfect for layering with wild patterns or adding a statement pop to a neutral couch.
7. Maison d’ Hermine Birdies On Wire Scalloped Pillow Sham
This one’s for the pattern lovers! The Sorry Girls decorated an accent chair with this sham and it completely transformed the vibe.
Details:
- Material: 100% cotton
- Colors/Pattern: Cream with hand-painted bird motif and blue scalloped trim
- Size: Standard (20″x26″)
- Closure: Overlap envelope
The blue piping highlights the gentle curves of the scallop, while the print feels whimsical but not childish.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you want your cushions to tell a story—and spark conversation—this is the pick.
8. Society6 Scalloped Edge Throw Pillow Covers by Cat Coquillette
Society6 collaborates with artists for one-of-a-kind designs. Drew Scott raved about Cat Coquillette’s covers for their modern take on scallops.
Details:
- Material: Polyester poplin
- Colors/Pattern: Dozens—think watercolor florals, pastels, abstracts
- Size: 16″x16″, 18″x18″, 20″x20″
- Closure: Concealed zipper
These are vibrant, graphic, and perfect for anyone who wants their cushions to double as art.
Why You’ll Love It:
You can easily find a colorway to suit your vibe—from soft neutrals to bold brights—and support independent artists at the same time.
9. Ballard Designs Suzanne Kasler Scallop Edge Pillow Cover
Ballard Designs always nails classic-with-a-twist decor. Alexandra Gater featured this in her “Timeless Living Room” series and I’ve been obsessed since.
Details:
- Material: Linen/cotton blend
- Colors: Blush Pink, French Blue, White
- Size: 22″x22″ (great for larger sofas/beds)
- Closure: Hidden zipper
The oversized shape is perfect for propping up behind your back during marathon binge-watching sessions. The scallop is wide-set and crisp—super tailored but still soft.
Why You’ll Love It:
It adds polish without pretension—a grownup way to do playful details in an otherwise classic space.
10. Zara Home Linen Scalloped Cushion Cover
Zara Home is always on top of trends but never skimps on quality. The Sorry Girls styled this cover in their “European-Inspired Bedroom” video—and it’s as luxe as it looks.
Details:
- Material: Pure linen
- Colors: White, Eucalyptus Green, Ochre Yellow
- Size: 18″x18″
- Closure: Hidden zipper
The linen is airy yet substantial—perfect for both hot summers and chilly winters. The scallop edge is subtle but elevates even the simplest space.
Why You’ll Love It:
It ages beautifully (linen gets softer over time!) and works in almost any decor style—from farmhouse to modern minimalist.
How I Chose These Shams: Criteria That Matter
Let’s be real: With so many beautiful options out there, how do you narrow it down?
Here’s what helped me—and what top YouTubers swear by:
Fabric Quality
Go for natural fibers whenever possible. Linen and cotton breathe better and develop character with age. Velvet adds luxe texture but look for easy-care options if you have pets or kids.
Color & Versatility
Choose hues that play nicely with your existing decor—but don’t be afraid of a statement color if your room needs a lift! Neutrals layer well; brights add instant personality.
Edge Detailing
Check close-up photos or reviews for tight stitching and well-defined scallops. Floppy or uneven edges will ruin the look fast.
Closure Type
Hidden zippers create a seamless finish; envelope closures are quick to swap out come laundry day.
Size
Measure your inserts! A slightly smaller cover (e.g., 18″x18″ cover on a 20″x20″ insert) gives that “full” designer look everyone loves on Instagram.
Value Proposition
Consider how long you want your shams to last—and how often you want to switch them up by season or trend. Higher-end shams are an investment; budget picks are perfect for experimenting.
Personal Testimonials: How These Shams Fit My Life
I live with two dogs (who think every pillow is theirs), so durability matters as much as style. My Anthropologie velvet sham survived muddy paws thanks to its tight weave—and spot cleaned like a dream.
On my guest bed, I use Serena & Lily’s linen sham layered over H&M Home’s cotton one for texture play—guests always comment on how “Pinterest-y” it feels!
And when I need a quick seasonal refresh? Swapping out my Target Opalhouse shams for Zara Home’s linen ones instantly lightens up the room without needing to repaint or buy new furniture.
FAQ: Scalloped-edge Cushion Shams
Q: Are scalloped pillow shams hard to care for?
Not at all! Most cotton or linen shams machine wash beautifully—just check the label first for delicate cycles or cold water settings. Velvet usually prefers spot cleaning or gentle steam refreshes.
Q: Do scalloped edges hold up over time?
If stitched well (like all my picks above), they absolutely do! Look for reinforced seams and quality fabric so the edges don’t go limp after a few washes.
Q: Can I mix scalloped shams with other pillow styles?
Definitely! They pair beautifully with block prints, tassel trims, or even simple solids. I love mixing textures—try velvet scallops with woven jute or chunky knits for depth.
Q: What size insert should I use?
For that plush “designer” look, use an insert one size up from your cover (e.g., 20″x20″ insert in an 18″x18″ cover).
Q: Where should I use scalloped shams?
Anywhere! Sofas, beds, reading chairs—even outdoor loungers if you choose weather-resistant fabric. They’re versatile enough to move around as seasons change.
What to Look For: Quick Checklist
- Is the fabric high-quality and soft to touch?
- Are the scallops even and well-finished?
- Does the closure keep your insert snug and hidden?
- Will the color/pattern work year-round—or just seasonally?
- Do you love how it feels and looks?
If it ticks all those boxes—you’ve found your perfect match!
Final Thoughts: Make Your Space Yours
At the end of the day, decorating is about creating moments that feel like “you.” Whether it’s a plush velvet sham that reminds you of childhood naps or a bold patterned cover that energizes your mornings—the right pillow makes all the difference.
So next time you scroll Pinterest or watch your favorite room makeover on YouTube, remember: Sometimes all it takes is one beautiful scalloped-edge cushion sham to turn a house into a home. And trust me—once you try one of these creator-approved picks? You’ll wonder how you ever lived without that little decorative flourish!