A pillow sham is a decorative pillow cover that puts the finishing touch on your bedding design. Pillow shams are similar to pillowcases and can be used with the same standard pillows. The main difference is that shams typically open at the back rather than at the side for a more seamless and decorative front appearance. They often coordinate with your other bedding items, like your duvet cover.
Bed pillow shams are usually not intended to be slept on, but rather to be placed in front of the sleeping pillows after the bed is made as a visual cherry on top. Many people also lean against their sham pillows when relaxing in bed while reading a book or watching TV.