There are many different types of drapery available so you can find the perfect look for your space. Whether you’re looking for a classic and sophisticated look or something more casual and relaxed, there are a variety of styles to choose from.

Traditional Curtains

The most popular option, traditional curtains feature a thicker, heavier fabric that creates an elegant and sophisticated look. They come in a range of lengths so you can easily coordinate them with your window and home decor.

Pleats: The pleating style of your drapes can make a big difference in how they hang and in how the fabric drapes around your window. There are many different pleat options, including pinch pleats, top pinch pleats and box pleats.

Pinch pleats are one of the most formal and sophisticated pleating styles that are often used in windows of restaurants with formal dining, as well as in executive boardrooms and sitting rooms in homes. These pleats sew the top folds of the fabric together to create a smooth and sleek header that control the fullness going down the length of the drapery panel.

Another very formal and sophisticated pleat design is the Parisian style. This pleat style creates a more formal and sophisticated appearance by sewing the top three folds of the fabric together to display a flute on the top of the panel, but not the bottom.

Box Pleat: This informal heading on drapery panels creates a square shape at the top of the panel, and then holds that shape all the way down to the bottom. This design is typically used on stationary curtains that don’t open and close, but can be dressed up a bit by adding embellishments like ruffles to the bottom of the pleats for added detail and character.

Rod Pocket: This casual and traditional drapery design is a great choice for those who want their drapes to be as full as possible without the need for tie-backs. The gathered fabric near the rod pocket creates fullness all along the drapery panel, but can also be gathered to the side for an even more full appearance.

Grommets: A dramatic and decorative choice, grommet drapery has deep folds that create a more dramatic appearance. They’re best used as stationary panels, because they’re not ideal for frequent opening and closing.

Tab tops: A casual, informal choice, tap tops have fabric loops that fit on the curtain rod. They can be hung directly onto the rod or slightly below it using ties, drapery pins or curtain hooks.

Sheers: If you’re looking for a light-filtering alternative, sheers can offer an attractive and soft flow to a room, while still offering privacy at the same time. They can be layered with other kinds of curtains or just stand alone beautifully.

Valance: A valance is a decorative piece that sits above the top of a window set, concealing the hardware and completing a beautiful look. They can also be paired with blinds or hang over other draperies for a more elaborate look.

How to Add Privacy to Your Home