Like it or not, every '80s bedroom trend seems to be creeping back—John Hughes-esque pink walls, Laura Ashley florals, and now, bed skirts.
Call it grand-millennial, cottagecore, or even a touch of maximalism, but modern takes on this nostalgic detail might be just what your bed is missing (plus, they’re great for hiding storage). And don’t just take it from us—designers and brands, alike, are witnessing elevated demand.
At Piglet in Bed, founder and CEO Jessica Hanley says searches for valances have surged 734% since December, making it one of the most-searched terms on her site.
“I think it ties into the broader trend of embracing color and lived-in interiors,” she told us. “Valances are a simple way to create a softer, more polished look.”
She recommends soft, natural fabrics like washed linen or relaxed cotton. “These materials bring an effortless charm that feels inviting rather than overly formal.”
Chicago-based designer Claire Staszak (Centered by Design) agrees, noting that she prefers a linen or linen blend for a tailored yet casual feel. “If you want to avoid the 'grandma chic' look, go for a solid color with trim or tape,” she suggests. More structured styles like box pleats or square valances can feel less old-fashioned, while playful florals and stripes lean into nostalgia.
So how do you style a bed skirt without making your space feel too traditional? The key is balance. Opt for natural materials, pair them with textural elements like washed linen duvets and wool throws, and keep things feeling relaxed and effortless. If you’re ready to embrace the return of the bed skirt, here are some expert-approved picks to get you started.
Jessica suggests lightweight materials like cotton and linen for an effortlessly draped look. This light striped option from her collection embodies that exact type of relaxed elegance.
Stripes offer a playful, retro touch without feeling too busy. This muted olive or pink-striped pick captures that English countryside aesthetic, but with a more modern edge.
If you're leaning into florals or silk for spring, Coco & Wolf’s valances are the way to go. Handmade in England, they have a luxe, nostalgic feel—especially the deep golden one, which makes a serious statement.
Claire recommends structured styles like box pleats to keep things feeling modern. This neutral option from Rough Linen is a timeless pick that adds a clean, polished layer to your bed.
A simple yet stylish option with bow-tied corners, this stonewashed linen bed skirt is soft, relaxed, and perfect for subtly covering box springs and under-bed storage.
For a touch of nostalgia, this cream options channels that quintessential '80s look without feeling outdated. It’s a delicate ruffled option woven from pure cotton in their gentle Daisy colorway.
With a structured, tailored look, this 100% French flax linen bed skirt feels like an extension of your bed frame. Designed to hold its shape with crisp, neat folds, it comes in soft neutrals like oatmeal and charcoal—or the full color range for a custom look.
A splurge-worthy, ethereal linen choice with a sheer, gauzy finish. As seen on Fixer Upper, it features delicate ruffles and a 22" drop, designed to softly puddle or tuck to fit your bed frame.
Um, serious question: People who have not been using bedskirts (or as Mom called them, dust ruffles) all along, what have they had instead?
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