STYLE / DESIGN : SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE of THESE

Sheets of satin and silk, blankets of mohair and cashmere--today’s most sumptuous bed linens are taking their cue from haute couture. Like sweaters, they’re often woven from natural fibers. Like wedding gowns, they’re sometimes intricately hand-embroidered. And they’re always accessorized to the hilt with pillows, shams, throws and dust ruffles. With a well-dressed bed, it seems, one need only hit the sack to be stylish. If Scarlett O’Hara were around, no doubt she’d reach for the bedclothes instead of the drapery.

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The ROMANTIC:

Rich velvets, faux suedes and tapestry-like fabrics distinguish the romantic bed, conjuring up visions of exotic places and times gone by. Animal-print sheets suggest the adventure of an African safari; matelasse shams, the grace of the Old World; silk pillows, the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Never before has the bedroom been filled with so much drama and panache.

The MODERN

Once reserved for making sweaters and shawls, cashmere now figures prominently in the making of the modern bed, showing up in cozy throws and simple boudoir cushions. The same goes for mohair and merino lamb’s wool, materials as likely to be found in blankets as balmacaans. Even high-fashion silk charmeuse, embroidered and filled with downy floss silk, is turning up on the bed. Catching 40 winks amid such luxury is anything but a yawn.

The COUNTRY

A mix of colors, patterns and textures marks the country bed--from line-dried, white-on-white Egyptian cotton sheets to pillow cases and shams in an array of plaids, florals and stripes. The effect is sunny, fresh and, most important, inviting. Snuggle up with feather pillows and a soft wool blanket reminiscent of an old-fashioned quilt, and you’ll want to spend the day in bed.