When shopping for luxury silk bedding, one detail that often causes confusion is the difference between Oxford and Housewife pillowcases. At Jasmine Silk, we offer both styles to suit a range of bedroom aesthetics and preferences—but what exactly sets them apart?
Whether you’re updating your bedroom or choosing the perfect gift, understanding Housewife vs Oxford pillowcase designs will help you make the right choice for both comfort and style.
What is a Housewife Pillowcase?
A housewife pillowcase is a simple, classic design that fits snugly around your pillow with no decorative border. It’s clean, minimalistic, and practical—perfect for everyday use and seamlessly complementing modern and traditional interiors alike.
- Envelope-style design with an inner flap to keep the pillow securely in place
- Standard-size is approximately 75cm x 50cm
- Lies flat against the bed with no added borders or flanges
- Sleek and versatile style for all bedroom themes
💡Why is it called a Housewife pillowcase?
The name dates back to a group of British housewives who added an internal flap to keep the pillow in place- thus the design was born and adopted widely in the textile industry.
What is an Oxford Pillowcase?
An oxford pillowcase features a stitched fabric border or ‘flange’ around the edges, adding an elegant and decorative finish. The border typically measures 5cm and frames the pillow beautifully, giving a luxurious, hotel-style look to your bedding.
- Features a bordered flange for a more decorative appearance
- Still holds the same standard pillow insert (approx. 75cm x 50cm)
- Available in various silk designs to elevate your bedding style
- Often used on top of housewife pillowcases for layering and contrast
💡 Why is it called an Oxford pillowcase?
The term is believed to come from the distinctive Oxford cloth used historically in its design, although today, it refers more to the pillowcase’s border rather than the fabric itself.
Housewife vs Oxford Pillowcase: Which Should You Choose?
Still wondering Housewife or Oxford pillowcase? Many customers choose to use both: Housewife for everyday comfort, and Oxford as a finishing touch on top.
Do Oxford Pillowcases Go On Top?
Yes, many interior stylists recommend layering Oxford pillowcases on top of Housewife ones for a sophisticated, layered look. The border creates visual interest and gives your bed a styled, polished feel.
Are Oxford Pillowcases Bigger Than Housewife?
Technically, the internal pillow area remains the same, but the decorative border makes Oxford pillowcases appear larger. It’s all about the outer dimensions, not the pillow inside.
Shop Both Styles at Jasmine Silk
Whether you love the minimal elegance of Housewife pillowcases or prefer the stylish statement of Oxford designs, Jasmine Silk has you covered. Our silk pillowcases are made from the finest 19 and 22 momme Mulberry silk, offering:
- Hypoallergenic benefits
- Temperature regulation
- Friction-reduction for better skin and hair
- Timeless luxury in a range of colours and styles
FAQs: Housewife vs Oxford Pillowcases
What’s the main difference between Oxford and Housewife pillowcases?
Oxford pillowcases have a decorative fabric border, while Housewife pillowcases have a plain edge.
Are Oxford pillowcases bigger than Housewife?
They appear bigger due to the border, but both fit standard pillows.
Do Oxford pillowcases go on top of Housewife pillowcases?
Yes, Oxford pillowcases are often layered on top for visual appeal.
Why is it called a Housewife pillowcase?
It’s named after a design innovation by British housewives to secure the pillow better.
Which is better—Housewife or Oxford pillowcase?
It depends on your style. Housewife is simple and functional; Oxford is decorative and elegant.
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