MMM: Princess & The Pea beds

Lila has just turned two. She now has ‘favourite’ books which I am directed to by one word and a point each evening.

Usually: ‘Peppa’ – Needs no explanation; ‘Peepo,’ – ditto; ‘Sally,’ – Sally’s Secret by Shirley Hughes; ‘Babies,’ – Owl Babies by Martin Waddell; ‘Baby,’ (the singular version) – ‘One Little Baby’ by Richard Dungworth and Jane Waddell, or ‘Pea,’ – The Princess & The Pea, a classic.

I always loved Princess & The Pea when I was tiny. The thought of that princess being able to feel something as small as a little green pea despite sleeping on twenty mattresses really fired my imagination – and I love the fact my little girl enjoys it too – even being so little.

And it seems interiors gurus try to recreate their own P&TP moment for their little princesses (and princes) because I have noticed a real trend for ‘layered’ bedding – either for sleeping in or for little lounging corners.

The way to achieve the look is to start with a normal single mattress and then ‘layer’ on blankets, duvet covers or mattress toppers. If you’re a total textile-aholic like me, no further excuse is needed to buy more bedding.

I love the idea of creating your very own Princess & The Pea moment. Use print and patterned sheets and bedding in completely contrasting colour ways, or stick to a toning palette and clash your prints. Whatever way you prefer, it’ll be total lounge heaven – or make a brilliant den.

• inspiring kids room ideas

• layered mattress

• multiple mattresses

• princess and the pea