Last updated: 05.09.2025
The History of Sleigh Beds
Originally created around 200 years ago, it is a style that was popular in 1800s France and within The US due to the rise in neoclassic furniture, inspired by a Greek Revival.
The sleigh shape was derived from the “Empire Style”, which was heavily influenced by both the arts and eighteenth-century architecture, creating elaborate and stylish furniture.
The curves of the bed mimic an ancient scroll, paying homage to ancient Greek columns.
It is said that Napoléon had a slight obsession with this style of bed, and requested all of his beds were made in this style – if it was good enough for Napoléon, then it’s certainly good enough for us!
Whilst we sell a plethora of gorgeous French Beds, the finest examples of French Sleigh Beds are our Lit d'Amour Linen Upholstered Bed or our Gustavian Upholstered Bed. Our French Romance bed in grey linen also perfectly represent the traditional sleigh bed.
We’ve put together a guide on how to style a sleigh bed to help you make your style mark, whilst maintaining the elegance of the shape itself.
French Style Sleigh Bed Styling
Lit d'Amour Linen Upholstered Bed
This timeless French style sleigh bed features sweeping button upholstery around and over the top curve of the headboard and footboard, giving the bed that classic sleigh shape. We find sleigh beds look their best in a plain or textured fabric, which allows for the scrolls to do the visual talking.
Simple yet elegant bedding accessories are a must when styling a bed this stunning. Plain white bed linen provides a crisp, luxurious feel whilst not removing any attention from the detailed buttoning and graceful swirls.
Try our Romance Ruffle Cotton Bed Linen Set to add a feminine twist without deferring the attention from the frame itself.
For a modern take, pair this beautiful bed with gold bedside tables such as the Palais de Versailles Gold Bedside Table and dress them with minimal accessories – a simple white vase with pampas grass placed within it is the perfect addition.
Wooden Sleigh Bed Styling
Gustavian Upholstered Bed
The hand-carved and carefully considered design details create a perfect aesthetic of natural, refined elegance. The siderails and footend feature horizontal hand-carved fluting with stepped inset corners that emulate the same stepped design on the shoulders of the headboard and footboard.
The delicate colouring of this bed makes it the perfect, feminine addition to any bedroom. With wooden feet, the bed looks beautiful paired with accompanying soft, white bed linen and embroidered bedspreads, such as the Abundance Kantha Throw.
Pair the bed with a cosy rug and accompany with light bedroom furniture, such as a delicate side table to create an effortless, feminine chic.
Pair this bed with an ottoman for additional storage, and decorate it with pale cushions to tie the entire room together. Place a gold framed mirror above and et voila – a whimsical, feminine bedroom you’ll never want to leave, all centred around a timeless design.
Cosy Upholstered Sleigh Bed Styling
French Romance Linen Upholstered Bed
Designed in a grey linen, the French Romance Upholstered bed is our very own French take on an upholstered sleigh bed. The headboard and footboard have been carefully curved in a more traditional French way, accentuating the shape of the bed, and making it a talking piece within the bedroom.
This cosy upholstered sleigh bed is carved from a hardwood oak with a very subtle stain distemper, allowing you to create a rustic space that oozes soft French elegance. It has been carefully designed to be a colour that coordinates perfectly with other items of French furniture, allowing you to adapt the bed to your style as it changes over the years.
Create a classic French bedroom by pairing these beautiful beds with the matching bedside tables for a unified, traditional look.
Make the bed cosy by dressing in darker shades of bed linen or stick to a lighter shade and adorn with quilted bedspreads and decorative cushions that match the your linen choice.
To create a cosy feel, use patterns such as gingham or add visual intrigue with texture. We adore the combination of our and Chamonix Oatmeal Faux Fur Cushion to create a wintery sanctuary.
Opting for wall lights will create a warmer feel to the room, or take this one step further and snuggle up with your favourite book by candlelight, tying together both relaxing scents and a calm space to have you ready for a relaxing night of rest.
French Bedroom Sleigh Beds
"Sleigh Beds at French Bedroom offer French styling but with a modern touch – they are built to last for decades and have a light and airy aesthetic, easier to use than the heavier colour woods of yester-year."
Says Georgia Metcalfe, Founder & Creative Director at French Bedroom
With endless styling opportunities, a sleigh bed can be the piece de resistance within your boudoir. We understand that with such a variety of styling choices, it can initially seem daunting knowing which is the right style for you. This is why we are always here to provide styling advice (free of charge) and have been since 2006. Get in touch today and let us help you create your dream bedroom.
Read more: How To Dress A Bed | The Most Stylish Beds According To Pinterest
Shop our Sleigh BedsFAQs
Characterised by their curved or scrolled headboards and footboards, these timeless classics model the silhouette of a sleigh, which is how they founded their name!
Originally created around 200 years ago, it is a style that was popular in 1800s France and within The US due to the rise in neoclassic furniture, inspired by a Greek Revival.
The sleigh shape was derived from the “Empire Style”, which was heavily influenced by both the arts and eighteenth-century architecture, creating elaborate and stylish furniture.
The curves of the bed mimic an ancient scroll, paying homage to ancient Greek columns.
It is said that Napoléon had a slight obsession with this style of bed, and requested all of his beds were made in this style – if it was good enough for Napoléon, then it’s certainly good enough for us!
Yes - sleigh beds are very much in style. Their timeless curves and elegant silhouettes make them versatile enough to suit both modern and traditional interiors.
In 2025, they’re especially popular for the way they can be styled in different ways:
French styling - create a romantic, chateau-inspired look with soft linens and ornate detailing.
Wooden sleigh beds - bring natural warmth and classic charm to your bedroom.
Cosy layering - add throws, cushions, and textured bedding to make the sleigh bed feel inviting.
With the right accessories, a sleigh bed can be styled to feel chic, contemporary, or timelessly traditional, which is why this design never goes out of fashion.
Yes - sleigh beds can absolutely work in smaller bedrooms, as long as you choose the right proportions and styling:
Opt for a lighter finish like painted wood or upholstery in pale tones to keep the room feeling spacious.
Select a slimline sleigh bed with a lower footboard if floor space is limited.
Keep bedding simple and avoid heavy drapes to maintain a lighter, airier look.
By balancing size, finish, and styling, a sleigh bed can feel grand without overwhelming a small room.
For more information on bed sizing, read our blog: Your Guide To UK Bed Sizes
Sleigh beds are most often crafted in high-quality finishes that highlight their elegant curves and timeless design:
Wooden sleigh beds - a classic choice that brings warmth and natural beauty into the bedroom.
Upholstered sleigh beds - soft, comfortable, and versatile, perfect for layering with cushions and throws.
French-style sleigh beds - often combining carved wooden frames with upholstered panels for a luxurious finish.
At French Bedroom, our sleigh beds are designed in both solid wood and sumptuous fabrics, giving you options that feel both enduringly stylish and indulgently comfortable.
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Learn more about Georgia Metcalfe.
