Curtain Style Guide

Curtains and drapes can filter light throughout the day and provide privacy for your home. They can also add style and sophistication to a space. There is a distinct difference between curtains and drapes based on their formality and fabric.

Drapes are formal, a heavier fabric, and more elaborate.Curtains are informal, made with lightweight materials, and often unlined and sheer.For drapes, the fabric is typically pleated at the top while curtains are gathered.

When selecting a specific curtain style, the determining factors are your home decor and which room you choose to hang the curtains. With this in mind, we explain the five most common curtain styles, common curtain lengths, popular curtain patterns and features that will instantly transform your space from every day to extraordinary.

Note: Certain kinds of curtain styles can be combined to work best for your home. For example, a set of double panel curtains can also come with a valance and stacked curtains. Read on for more information about each curtain style.

Top 5 Curtain Styles

1. Panel Pair Curtains ​

Panel pair curtains, also known as double panel curtains, refer to two curtain panels hanging on either side of the window. This is the most common style.

​Lightweight fabrics are preferred for double panels, however double panel style curtains are also available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and opaqueness. Panel pair curtains can also be used to frame and filter light around a set of doors (left).

2. Curtain Panels with Valance​

Often used to cover curtain hardware, a valance adds a decorative element to the top of window treatments. Valances are commonly paired to match the same styled curtain, but can be purchased and installed without curtains.

An alternative to the valance is the window scarf. Just like the name implies, the window scarf is draped above the window or door from one side to the other. This gives a softer look than most valances.

3. Stacked Curtains​

A layered floor-to-ceiling panel, stacked curtains give the option to include both heavy and light curtains. Pairing a decorative curtain panel with a sheer or blackout panel allows you to control the amount of light you want to let in or keep out.

Stacked curtains will add depth to your windows. Start with sheer or lace curtains which add privacy but allow the most light to pass through. Then, add the curtain of your choice. Stacked curtains can be mixed with drapes, blinds, shades, and other window treatments, too. Lastly, use valances to add interest and complete the look.

Tip!

Stacked curtains are ideal for different seasons. The variety of light helps to control the hot temperatures in the summer and naturally warm the home in the winter.

4. Single Panel 

You can use one curtain panel as the entire window treatment. For a romantic look, sweep the curtain back to one side of the window or opt to leave it hanging for a casual feel. 

The benefit of buying single panels is that you can select the exact number of panels that you need. For very wide windows or windowed doors, you may need an odd number of panels to completely cover the space.

5. Cafe Curtains

Cafe curtains, hung at the window's midpoint, lend a touch of visual interest to your space. They also provide a nice mix of privacy and light into your home. This style of curtains is often found in the kitchen or breakfast nooks, but is sometimes installed in bathrooms.

This contemporary style of curtains lets in the most amount of light. Cafe curtains can be paired with a matching valance like this floral pattern (left).

Credit : https://www.wayfair.com