Very beautiful. It's soft, and feels "nice". Not cheap looking or feeling at all. There's a slight sheen to it. I was afraid that it might be too "feminine" for a guy's dorm room but it's not at all. It's peaceful, calming, and neutral. Which is exactly what I wanted. He forgot to pack the down comforter that was supposed to go inside (!?!) so in the photo it's just the duvet. But that will be fine until we can take the comforter to him.