What is a Sleigh Bed?

We're going to delve into the world of sleigh beds today.  

You’ve probably heard of them before and pictured something straight out of a Christmas movie, complete with reindeer and snowflakes. And to be honest, you’re not totally wrong – there is a bit of that winter elegance in the design.  

But sleigh beds are more about style than Santa Claus. So, let’s dive into it, what exactly is a sleigh bed? Are they reserved for posh country homes, or can you make one work as a bedroom centrepiece in a modern flat?  

So, what is a sleigh bed?  

A sleigh bed is pretty much exactly what it sounds like – it’s a style of bed that looks somewhat like an old-fashioned sleigh. Imagine a curved headboard and footboard, these are often scrolling outward at the top, giving it that signature "sleigh" silhouette.  

A sleigh bed is all about those exaggerated curves. The shape makes the bed look like it’s ready to glide through the night sky, hence the name. They’ve been around for years, and they were originally inspired by French and American Empire-style furniture from the 19th century (1).  

Traditionally they were made from solid wood (often dark woods like mahogany or walnut), modern sleigh beds now come in everything from upholstered velvet to painted oak. There’s even a market for minimalist sleigh-style beds if you love the shape but don’t love the idea of the heavy, ornate designs.  

A bit of history  

The sleigh bed goes way back – think Napoleon Bonaparte-era France. The French Empire style was big on grandeur and opulence, and surprisingly, sleigh beds were a big part of that. America picked it up not long after, and before you knew it, sleigh beds were popping up in stately homes everywhere.  

They were status symbols – big, bold, and built to impress. The kind of bed you’d have in your grand master bedroom, ideally with a roaring fire and a massive chandelier overhead.  

Fast forward to today, and sleigh beds are still about making a bit of a statement – though you don’t need a manor house to own one.  

What’s so great about them?  

Good question. Sleigh beds aren’t just about their striking looks – though they do score major points in that department. Here are a few reasons people seem to love them:  

1. They look fancy without trying too hard  

A sleigh bed instantly gives your bedroom a “put-together” look. You don’t need to add in loads of extra furniture or faff – the bed itself becomes the centrepiece of the room.  

2. They’re super sturdy  

Most sleigh beds are made from solid wood or strong metal frames, so they’re extremely solid. No more of that creaky, wobbly nonsense.  

3. Sleigh beds come in loads of styles  

Whether you’re into rustic, modern, Scandi, glam, or traditional, there’s probably a sleigh bed out there for you. You can even find upholstered ones with built in storage drawers if you need to be practical (hello, small UK bedrooms).  

The not-so-great bits  

Of course, no bed is perfect for everyone, and sleigh beds do have a couple of drawbacks worth knowing about.  

1. They’re large 

Because of the design featuring those curved head and footboards, sleigh beds tend to take up more space than your average bed frame. That means they’re not always ideal for small bedrooms or box rooms.  

If your space is tight, you might want to measure thoroughly before you decide to commit – no one wants to be squeezing round the side of their bed every morning like it’s a tightrope walk.  

2. Footboards can be annoying  

If you’re on the taller side, the footboard might cramp your style (and your feet). Some people don’t like having that closed-in feeling – especially if they tend to stretch out and wiggle their toes off the end of the bed.  

That said, you can get sleigh beds with lower footboards or even just a headboard with the sleigh-style curve if you love the look but hate the added restriction.  

Are sleigh beds just for traditional bedrooms?  

Not at all. While the classic sleigh bed leans more towards a traditional or vintage aesthetic, modern versions are far more versatile and can work in a variety of spaces. A grey velvet sleigh bed, for example, can look incredibly luxe and modern, especially paired with minimalist decor and neutral tones.  

There are also faux leather sleigh beds (great for that contemporary vibe), painted wooden ones for a more coastal or country-cottage feel, and even ones with built-in storage or ottoman bases for that much needed functionality.  

So, no – sleigh beds aren’t just for grand bedrooms with wallpaper and wainscoting. They can absolutely work in a modern semi, a new-build flat, or even a rented place, just make sure you can get it up the stairs first.   

Styling tips: how to make a sleigh bed work in your space  

If you’re thinking of bringing a sleigh bed into your home, here are a few quick styling ideas to make it shine:  

• Keep it simple: Let the bed be the star of the room. Go for clean bedding in neutral tones or some light subtle patterns.  

• Add texture: A chunky knit throw, velvet cushions, or linen bedding can add interest without feeling too overwhelming.  

• Go low with other furniture: Sleigh beds can be tall, so balance the room by choosing bedside tables and dressers that don’t try to compete height-wise.  

• Watch your colours: Dark wooden sleigh beds can feel visually heavy in small rooms. If that’s the case, it might be better to consider lighter finishes like white, grey, or upholstered versions.  

Sleigh beds at Christmas: the ultimate festive feel  

If there’s ever a time to own a sleigh bed, it’s Christmas. There’s something about the name alone that screams cosiness, fairy lights, and festive cheer.  

Imagine this: you’re snuggled up in your sleigh bed on a chilly December night, fairy lights twinkling around the headboard, a mug of hot chocolate (or mulled wine, it is winter after all), and a cheesy Christmas film on telly. Absolute bliss.  

Here are a few ways to give your sleigh bed a seasonal glow-up:  

• Add a festive throw: Go for tartan, faux fur, or chunky knits in deep reds, greens, or snowy whites. 

• Twinkle lights or garlands: Drape some battery-operated fairy lights or a pine garland over the headboard for instant Christmassy charm.  

• Festive cushions: Reindeer prints, snowflakes, or even a cheeky “Ho Ho Ho” cushion – go wild.  

• Under-bed gift stash: Not practical advice, but very festive. Sleigh beds with storage drawers? Perfect hiding place for pre-Christmas presents.  

If Santa were to take a post-delivery nap, it would certainly be in a sleigh bed.  

Final thoughts: is a Sleigh bed right for you?  

Sleigh beds are the statement coat of the bedroom world – classic, eye-catching, and often a bit posh. They’re perfect if you want a bed that feels luxurious, timeless, and sturdy.  

That said, they’re not always ideal for tight spaces or minimalists who prefer simple lines and zero fuss. But if you’ve got the room (and the taste for a touch of drama), a sleigh bed could be just the thing to take your bedroom from “meh” to magazine-worthy.  

And if you time it right, you can have it up and styled just in time for Christmas – so your bedroom looks like something out of your favourite festive film. Just don’t blame us if you never want to get out of bed again.  

Sources: 

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleigh_bed