12 Distinctive Curtain Styles to Suit Any Room
When it comes to decorating your home, curtains can make all the difference in elevating a space. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to select the right curtains to complement your room.
An Overview of Curtain Types and Usage
Before diving into specific styles, let's review some curtain basics. First, curtains serve a few key purposes: privacy, light control, insulation, and decoration. Consider factors like room use, window size, and aesthetic goals as you shop. Length is another key difference, with choices like floor-length, sill/apron, tiers, and valances. You can also filter light and add texture with different fabrics, ranging from breezy sheers to light-blocking opaque panels.
Main Curtain Lengths
- Floor length: From top of window to floor
- Sill/apron: From bottom of rod to sill or floor
- Tiers/cafe: Partial coverage in two lengths
- Valances/toppers: Decorative panels above window
Styles and Fabrics
Common styles include flat panels, tailored Austrians or Priscillas, casual swags, and elegant drapery headers. Pair these shapes with sheers for airy filtering, bold patterns to make a statement, thermal or blackout fabrics to regulate light and temperature, and more.
12 Unique Curtain Styles
Now that we've covered the fundamentals, let's explore 12 distinctive curtain types to suit any room.
1. Classic Panel Curtains
Description: Flat, rectangular single panels that draw open and closed Features: Streamlined look, hangs flush to window, versatile style Best For: Clean and modern aesthetic, sliding doors, small spaces
2. Perky Tier & Cafe Curtains
Description: Two short horizontal tiers, often in kitchens and cafes Features: Allow light in while maintaining privacy Best For: Coastal cottages, kitchens, letting in natural light
3. Frame-Worthy Window Toppers & Valances
Description: Decorative panels hung above window frames Features: Conceal hardware, enhance window shape Best For: Spotlighting windows, adding color without blocking light
4. Window Scarf Curtains
Description: Rectangular swath of fabric hung above window Features: Soften edges, filter light, easy to install Best For: Small windows, dorms, apartments, decoration
5. Breezy Balloon Shades
Description: Fabric shades that balloon out when opened Features: Control light and airflow, preserves views Best For: Large windows, sliding doors, coastal locales
6. Pleated Austrian Curtains
Description: Tailored heading creates soft horizontal folds Features: Decorative look, pair with drapes or alone Best For: Floor-ceiling windows, formal spaces, French doors
7. Gathered Priscilla Curtains
Description: Curtains with sewn-in folds, fabric loops for gathering Features: Romantic gathered style, adjustable fullness Best For: Beds, arched windows, eclectic spaces
8. Casual Swag Curtains
Description: Fabric hangs in swooping curve, tied at corners Features: Relaxed style, decorative tassel tiebacks Best For: Cottages, cabins, tiered over other windows
9. Discreet Sill Length Curtains
Description: Short panels clipped below window sills Features: Perfect for basement windows near ceilings Best For: Bathrooms, basements, garage windows, privacy
10. Versatile Apron Curtains
Description: Curtains from rod to sill or floor, discreet utility Features: Clean, tailored style offers full coverage Best For: Dressing areas, corner windows, eating nooks
11. Make a Statement With Floor Length Curtains
Description: Elegant curtains from ceiling to floor Features: Frame tall windows, create focal point Best For: Formal living rooms and dining rooms
12. Double Duty Layered Looks
Description: Mix and match lengths and styles Features: Tailor privacy, light, and decoration Best For: Large or bay windows, bedrooms, home offices
With so many distinctive curtain types, you're sure to find options suiting your personal style, window shape and room dimensions. Measure carefully before purchasing. Layer lighter and heavier drapes to control privacy and light filtration. Most importantly, choose reliable curtains offering a visually pleasing frame for your view!
Want more inspiration on styling your perfect window dressings? Browse our selection of quality drapes and curtains to refresh your space today. With proper selection and installation, they'll filter light attractively for years to come. Reimagine your rooms by framing them in fabric to match your aesthetic and functions.
No matter your interior design tastes or the room you wish you style, this guide on 12 major curtain varieties should provide a useful starting point. We covered all the basics, the core styles, sizing, and usage recommendations. Remember to start with your priorities from a decor, privacy, or light control perspective. Combining the right lengths, fabrics and shapes can help strike that ideal balance for your space. Finally, don't be afraid to get creative and decorative with layers, textures and tie-backs until you achieve your perfect framed focal point!