Honestly I think it depends on the person receiving their gift, how picky they are about decor, and on how well you know them and their space. For most of the year I like things coordinated in my room, so if I received a pillowcase that matched my duvet set, or some simple linen ones I would be delighted!! I think it would also have to be a pair. I wouldn't like having two mismatched pillows on the bed at the same time. However at Christmas I like to put on themed sheets and it doesn't bother me that things are going unmatched for a few weeks, so fun holiday pillowcases would be appreciated.