How to Dress Up a Solid Comforter

Change the pillow cases. To break up the solidity of the comforter's color, don't use matching pillow cases; instead, select some that coordinate in pattern and color. Make sure the cases are in the same style family; a modern comforter doesn't go with lace-trimmed pillow cases.

Change the sheets. Interrupt the solid comforter with sheets of a different color.

Place striped and patterned throw pillows on the bed. The solid color of the comforter and sheets should be featured within the pattern or design of the pillows, but only sparingly. For example, if you have a solid, chocolate brown comforter, pair it with a lime green or white pillow with a hint of brown. If the comforter is dark, opt for brighter and lighter patterns on the pillows.

Position a slipcover or dust ruffle under the mattress. The slipcover should match the pillow cases. It's fine to use a solid color, as long as that color is in the pillow cases. For example, a brown comforter, brown and gray-blue pillow cases and a gray-blue slipcover would work together.

Create an accent wall behind the bed with paint or wallpaper. The color should coordinate with the other walls in the room. Select a color that is in the same family but light or darker than the rest of the room, or use the same color but in a glossier finish. The wall color could match the bed pillows and slipcover, but shouldn't be the same color as the comforter.

Change the curtains or window coverings. This can add more character to the space, but you don't want the window coverings to clash with the bed pillows and slipcover. If very colorful decor was used to dress up the bed, select a solid window covering in a color featured in the decor. The window coverings shouldn't be the exact color of the accent wall if the windows are on that wall. If the windows are on another wall, matching the color would help tie in the accent wall. To add light to the room, use sheer curtains.

Add a decorative chair beside the bed. If no detailed patterns were used on the pillow coverings, add a chair with a really interesting fabric. To reduce pattern overkill, find a chair in a solid color, such as white leather, and add a couple of throw pillows that match the bedding.

Add pictures to the wall. A bright picture above the bed helps bring life to the solid comforter, but be careful to select pictures that go with other colors and designs in the room. If a lot of pattern and color has been already added, frame some black and white images on the wall. Black and white will stand out in a room with an abundance of color.

Place a color vase with solid flowers or interesting lamp on the bedside table. This will help add personality to the entire bed scheme.