The set comes nicely packaged in a box + 2 bags: one containing the comforter and (rolled up inside it) the 4 shams and the bedskirt, and the other containing the 2 decorative pillows, which are vacuum-sealed.I have a very sensitive nose, and can attest that there was absolutely NO chemical smell at all out of the box/bag.The comforter itself is beautiful. I'm really pleased with the gold/ivory color. The gold has an almost bronzy/metallic look, which is better than expected and exactly what I was looking for. Lovely pattern, very regal-looking.The fabric is a tiny bit rough on the patterned side, but nothing that would cause it to be uncomfortable to sit on. Although this isn't the type of comforter I'd ever wrap myself up in, the underside is nice and smooth and I imagine would be very cozy and comfortable against the skin. The weight of the comforter is perfect for all-year use.The primary reason the set doesn't rate a "5" for me, though, is the odd stitching (see photo). The top is covered with strange little lines of stitching- some vertical and some horizontal- each about .5 inches or so long- placed randomly all over the comforter. I imagine this is done in order to keep the filling from shifting, but it certainly could have been done in a much more thoughtful and aesthetic manner. It's not glaringly noticable from a distance- and I suppose for the price you can't expect perfection. I do, however, own another Madison Park piece, which I purchased for around the same price point, and on which the workmanship is markedly better.Be aware that the shams are quite large (not sized to fit over standard bed pillows). I might use the patterned ones to cover a chair cushion. The fabric on the bedskirt and the solid-color shams is thin and, to me, has a very synthetic feel. I do like the included decorative pillows.All in all, I feel that for the price, it's a nice buy- especially if you can pick up one of the "used, like new" offerings.Hope this review has been helpful as you make your decision! :)
