It’s time to create a bedroom that feels like home.
You’ve landed your dream job, and you’re excited to upgrade and personalize your own space. Everything is going well: You’ve got a cool mid-century modern vibe going on, hung some interesting artwork on the walls, tucked a few houseplants here and there — you even bought a rug for the living room.
However, most guys are stuck when it comes to decorating their bedrooms, especially the bed itself. Many will settle for a boring, 100% polyester bedspread in black, with cheap black sheets and pillowcases to match, making their bed look like a black hole instead of the main star in their bedroom.
Ready to update your bedding situation? Check out these classic, stylish and affordable options we curated specifically for modern men.
But first, let’s talk about duvet covers and blankets.
What is the difference between a duvet, comforter, bedspread, and blanket?
Duvet Covers
Not to be confused with duvets, duvet covers are the decorative fabric sheath that encases the duvet. The duvet itself is the puffy white thing.
Think of it this way: The duvet is the “pillow,” and the duvet cover is the “pillow case.” Traditionally, when bedding is labeled as a comforter, it is the “pillow” with the color or pattern sewn onto it – so to wash it, you would have to take the whole thing to a dry cleaner.
Duvet covers are great, because they’re much easier to wash than a bedspread. Simply take the duvet cover off the duvet and throw it into the washing machine, same as you would for sheets. If you want low-effort bedding, a duvet with a duvet cover is the way to go.
Blankets and Bedspreads
Unlike a comforter or duvet, a bedspread generally does not have any stuffing; it’s more like a blanket. Another way to jazz up your bedding is by using two complementary blankets or quilts, overlaid on top of each other. For example, a high-quality plain blanket overlaid with a blanket in a classic print. This is also an easy-care option. And for the warmer months, the top layer can be removed.
Which option you choose should be based on sleeping preferences and how much temperatures where you live swing throughout the year. If you have cold winters and hot summers, it may make more sense to combine a mid-weight duvet with a blanket so you can reduce a layer when it gets hot.
Men’s Comforters and Duvet Covers
Eikei Washed Cotton Chambray Duvet Cover
General rule: If you prefer a duvet cover in a solid color, always opt for fabric that has an interesting, textured look. This otherwise plain gray duvet has a soft, stonewashed appearance, which instantly gives it more visual appeal. (Consider how mundane this light gray cotton duvet cover is, in comparison.)
Simple & Opulence Washed Flax Stripe Duvet Cover Set
A classic stripe pattern pairs well with the textured look of flax. This pattern and texture is extremely versatile, and would work equally well in a man’s bedroom with an industrial, mid-century modern, or modern farmhouse theme.
Trying to decorate your home on a budget in a style you can actually be proud of? You have to read our full guide to the 18 best stores for affordable home decor.
NANKO Modern Duvet Cover with Geometric Pattern
Looking for a bolder pattern? Try this duvet cover with matching shams. Place a white lumbar pillow with black or navy stripes (like this) in front of the two decorative pillows to break up the repeating dot pattern.
Softexture Duvet Cover in Grey
A higher-end alternative to the Eikei duvet cover previously listed, this contemporary, textured duvet cover is the perfect option if you’re searching for a darker gray color.
Pure Texture Duvet Cover in White: DKNY, $139.99-$169.99
Rivet Garment-washed Stripe Duvet Cover Set: Amazon, $120
A50 Duvet Sets in White
Made of highly-breathable Supima cotton and created by American-owned cotton growers, millers, and weavers, A50 duvet sets ship free within the US.
Down Alternative Comforter: Brooklinen, $249-$299
Blankets
Pine Cone Hill Matelassé Coverlet
Remember the rule about texture? You can still use otherwise “boring” dark colors, like navy blue or black, for your bedding, provided that the bedding has an interesting texture. The sumptuous waffle weave on this navy blue coverlet is perfect for creating texture and pockets of light and shadow, and when paired with crisp white sheets, your bed will look sophisticated and polished, not boring and plain.
Organic Cotton Blanket with Herringbone Pattern
Handcrafted in Maine, this heirloom-quality blanket is made with 100% cotton and is machine washable.
Rivet Hand-Woven Stripe Fringe Throw Blanket
The sienna color around the cream-colored tassels is the perfect pop of color for this beautiful throw, and a subtle (and affordable) way to make a statement.
Chenille Knit Throw: Target, $20
Frodis Throw: IKEA, $17.99
Mexican Yoga Blanket: Amazon, $40
Now Read This
Have you recently updated your bedding, or are you searching for a new look? Share your favorite finds in the comments below!