Why Designers Are Loving This “Messy Bedroom” Trend (It’s Far from Filthy!)

When you think of a designer bedroom, you’re probably picturing something polished and plush: dozens of throw pillows, a freshly steamed, silky-soft duvet, and luxe blankets folded *just* so. But the days of those fussy, stuffy bedscapes may be on their way out. Now designers are leaning into a more lived-in look. In other words, they want your bed to look like you actually sleep there. 

But there’s a fine line between chic and messy when it comes to executing this trend. The goal is for the space to feel effortless, not unruly. So I spoke with a few designers to find out exactly how to style a bedroom that feels perfectly imperfect rather than like you just forgot to clean. Here are their best tips.

The “messy” bedroom trend is basically the antidote to the showroom bedroom. It’s all about creating a space that feels relaxed and comfortable enough to be enjoyed, rather than one that looks like nobody is allowed to touch anything. Designer Samantha Mayo describes the look as “styled imperfection.” Think: rumpled bedding, mismatched patterns, draped throws, and layered textures. 

The most essential aspect of the messy bedroom trend is the bedding. Here, designers are leaning into natural fibers and organic materials for an extra-cozy, casual vibe. Bailey Walton, flooring expert and vice president of Anderson Tuftex, says the “visible grain, movement, and character,” of these fabrics gives the space more authenticity and character. Fabrics like cotton, linen, bouclé, and velvet all work well with this trend.

When going for the lived-in look, Mayo says layers are a must. She recommends styling a duvet with several throws or chunky-knit blankets, noting that “the more layers, the more that perfectly imperfect rumpled effect happens naturally,” she says. In other words, you can finally stop fighting the wrinkles. Carol Alda, a designer at Z Gallerie, says sticking to one cohesive color palette for your bedding is key. Mixing different textures and patterns will add visual interest, but keeping the color story consistent will make the space look intentional and styled. 

Alda also explains that a little asymmetry can help create an “effortless, comfortable look without actually feeling too messy.” That could mean draping your throw blanket over the corner of the bed at an angle, or using two different lamps on your nightstands. And forget the symmetrical pillow lineup: “I’ve never been one for the perfect pillow stack,” Mayo adds. She says mixing up the sizes, shapes, and textures of your throw pillows will help make your bed feel “collected, not curated.”

In addition to their styling tips, I asked the designers to share some of their favorite on-trend products — and they came through with some seriously stylish picks. Shop their cozy favorites below to get the lived-in look for your own bedroom.