The Ethereal, European-Inspired Bedding Trend That’s Perfect for Spring

I love a fluffy, voluminous bed setup as much as the next homebody, but I recently took notice of a spring-forward (and designer-approved!) bedding style that’s surprisingly turning me into a light-cover convert. Last month, one of my favorite home brands, Cultiver, launched a new product: the Heavyweight Linen Bedcover. Made from 100 percent certified European Flax linen, it’s a lighter, more breathable take on your go-to quilts and comforters that’s perfect for the warmer months ahead. 

Comfort aside, the styling versatility and dramatic look of this bedcover had me hooked above all else. Inspired by European opulence, it’s only available in one size that’s designed to drape entirely over king and queen beds — pillows all covered and tucked in, too — then gracefully pool on the floor for the ultimate luxe-meets-laid-back allure.

Naturally, I needed to source more inspo of this ethereal look ASAP and discovered through an Instagram deep dive that designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent also implemented the same oversized style in their bedroom. Is it the most pet- or Roomba-friendly trend? No, but Peter Spalding, co-founder and chief creative officer of design marketplace Daniel House Club, agrees that it seems particularly apropos of spring 2023. “I love the look of a draped bed — after years of very taut beds with duvet covers folded at the foot, this feels fresh, airy, and light-hearted,” he says. 

This regal-looking textile style is also nothing new: Spalding cites a bit of historical context, noting that “it used to be common for people to slipcover everything for summer, sometimes even covering their heavy drapes in lighter muslin or linen,” he says. Additionally, Spalding maintains that the undone yet sumptuous look of “draped bedding really fits in with this seasonal shift.” Which, to that end, I’ve also seen U.K.-based designer Beata Heuman apply floor-grazing fabric to a two-seater bench last June — proof that this look has legs beyond the bedroom, too.

Back to bedding, though: These draped layers function almost like a two-in-one bed skirt and coverlet combo, which can conceal unsightly bed frames or under-bed storage. “Even though it’s sort of old-fashioned, it’s very simple and unfussy,” says Spalding. “When the feet and bottom rails of your bed are out of sight, there’s a lot less for the eye to take in — just loose, easy-flowing yardage.” Best of all, this trend can complement any bed style, headboard or not. Just note that low-to-the-ground or box-spring-less frames will show the most poolage, and you want to be mindful of walking around your bed if you’re prone to tripping. 

Cultiver’s Heavyweight Linen Bedcover is admittedly a major splurge at $490, but you can find similar linen styles from Etsy and Bed Threads. Or, size up on blankets from Parachute or The Citizenry to recreate this loose effect. If you’re planning to swap your current bedding for spring, know that it doesn’t get much more unique or dramatic than thin, draped bedspreads. Trust me — your bedroom will feel fit for royalty.