Skip to content

Top Navigation

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Food
  • Home
  • Life
  • Health
  • Money
  • Style and Beauty
  • Holidays & Entertaining
  • News
  • Shop

Profile Menu

Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Real Simple

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 15 Impossible-to-Kill Outdoor Plants

      15 Impossible-to-Kill Outdoor Plants

      15 pretty plants that will thrive in even the least plant-friendly spaces Read More
    • A Guide to Understanding and Avoiding the Bystander Effect

      A Guide to Understanding and Avoiding the Bystander Effect

      5 Steps to Intervene Safely and Effectively Read More
    • A Guide for How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      A Guide for How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      There are three common ways you can measure your ring size right at home so you can finally get your ring measurement right, for good. Read More
  • Food

    Food

    See All Food

    22 High-Protein Meal Ideas with Recipes

    These easy-to-make recipes pack plenty of protein.
    • Recipes
    • Real Simple Cooking School
    • Cooking Tips & Techniques
    • Shopping and Storing
    • Kitchen Tools and Products
  • Home

    Home

    See All Home

    Easy Homemade Carpet Cleaners to Tackle Every Stain

    Made with products you probably have on hand
    • Organizing
    • Cleaning
    • Decorating
    • Gardening
    • Home Improvement
    • Quick Fix
    • Real Simple Home
  • Life

    Life

    See All Life

    Great Shows on Netflix to Watch This April

    24 new-to-you shows waiting to be discovered and devoured
    • Family
    • Entertainment
    • Technology
    • Wedding Planning
    • Travel Ideas
    • Adulting
    • Get It Done
    • Waste Less, Live Better
  • Health

    Health

    See All Health

    What to Do if You're Struggling to Feel Joy.

    How to recognize and deal with Anhedonia
    • Preventive Health
    • Mental Health
    • Health Coach
    • Crisis Coping
    • Fitness & Exercise
    • Sleep
    • Healthy Eating
  • Money

    Money

    See All Money
    11 Small Ways You Can Help Stimulate the Economy

    11 Small Ways You Can Help Stimulate the Economy

    Your dollars may be worth more than you realize.
    • Money Confidential Podcast
    • Saving Money
    • Money Planning
    • Money Made Simple
    • Spending
    • Money Etiquette
  • Style and Beauty

    Style and Beauty

    See All Style and Beauty
    • Clothing
    • Skincare
    • Shoes
    • Hair
    • Clothing Care
    • Makeup
  • Holidays & Entertaining

    Holidays & Entertaining

    See All Holidays & Entertaining
    7 Tulip Arrangements That Are Absolutely Stunning

    7 Tulip Arrangements That Are Absolutely Stunning

    Spring is peak season for tulips. Take a cue from these beautiful arrangements and create your own at home.
    • All Holidays
    • Easter
    • Gifts
    • Mother’s Day
    • Passover
    • Entertaining
    • Father’s Day
    • Home for the Holidays
    • Come Together
    • Hanukkah
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Valentine’s Day
  • News
  • Shop

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

LIVE
  1. Real Simple
  2. Home Organizing
  3. Decorating
  4. Your Guide to Curtains and Window Treatments

Your Guide to Curtains and Window Treatments

By Real Simple Editors
Updated May 31, 2019
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save FB Tweet
Curtains and Window Treatments Guide
Credit: Getty Images
Paralyzed by possibilities when it comes to picking out curtains and window treatments? This quick primer will help you find the right window treatment for every spot in your home. Whether you're wondering how to hang curtains the right way, want to know where to shop for curtains and drapes, or are debating if blinds are the best option, this guide will walk you through each decision.

If you decide that window curtains are right for the room, we'll guide you to pick the right fabric, curtain rod, and tiebacks to complete the look. Then, consider blackout curtains for a sleep-friendly bedroom or long velvet curtains for a luxe look in the living room. 

Not sure if curtains and drapes are the right choice? Find out when blinds are your best bet, how to measure for them, and where to buy them. And remember: Don't be afraid to opt for different window treatments from room to room. Heavy drapes may look beautiful in your formal dining room while roller shades work best in your kid's room. Consider all of these curtain and window treatment options to take your home decor to the next level. 

RELATED: Can You Use Shower Curtains on Windows? We Asked the Pros
Start Slideshow

1 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

Window Curtains: What About Fabric and Color?

Blue Bedroom Curtains
Credit: Pexels

Texture

If you've chosen to go with curtains, considering the mood of the room will help you select the right texture. For a formal space, there’s heavy silk or velvet (a great insulator, and available at West Elm); both are dry-clean only. More practical (often washable) options include silky rayon blends and cotton sateen. For a casual feel, there are billowy linen (generally dry-clean only) and crinkly crushed velvet. Cotton and cotton blends work with any type of decor and bring a crisp, neat feel, as does seasonless wool or wool blends.

Color

You’ll need to decide if you want the curtains to blend with the decor or to pop. For blending, pick curtains that are the same tone as the wall but a few shades darker, or choose a non-dominant subtle color in the room (a soft shade from the rug, say). A bold color will work like an exclamation point (if you’re looking to add some wow). Also keep in mind that in a space where the sun shines through unlined curtains, the color will infuse the room. Blue can be eerie; pink, cheery.

Prints and Patterns

A rule of thumb: If you have patterned furniture or bedding (or a very elaborate rug), stick with solid curtains. If you have solid-color furniture or bedding, consider patterned curtains. For a subtle hit of style and energy, go for a small, neutral print, like dots or paisley, which reads like texture from afar. A large, graphic print in a color that relates to the existing decor is daring but can be spectacular (this design is eye-catching).

1 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

How Long Should Curtains Be?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - How long should curtains be
Credit: Siraphol Siricharattakul/EyeEm/Getty Images

Floor-length is the way to go, unless there’s a radiator or a deep sill in the way. Ready-made panels are available in lengths from 63 to 144 inches. Measure from the floor to where you’ll hang the rod, then round up. You can always have the dry cleaner hem them a bit if needed. You’ll get the most current look if the fabric makes contact with the floor (or sill or radiator). Too-short curtains can seem nerdy and off, like high-waters. Here are two surefire approaches.

Option 1: Just Hitting the Floor or Sill

This look is classic and tailored; it makes sense if you’ll be opening and closing the curtains a lot (they’ll easily fall back into place every time you move them). The fabric should just touch the floor or hover half an inch above. This is also a great approach for café curtains (short panels that cover only the lower portion of a window and hit the sill), which work well in spots like the kitchen and bathroom, where long drapes aren’t practical.

Option 2: Breaking Slightly at the Floor

Panels that extend onto the floor by one to three inches are another stylish option. They’re more relaxed than those that graze the floor (left), but they still feel tailored—think of a pair of dress trousers. If you have uneven floors or are worried about precision measuring, this style is more forgiving. In formal rooms, an exaggerated take—six or so inches of fabric pooling on the floor—can look romantic but is also high-maintenance. They'll need to be cleaned more often and will have to be readjusted every time you vacuum or the cat lies on them.

RELATED: How to Hang Curtains and Window Coverings, According to Pros

2 of 10

3 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

How Wide Should Curtains Be?

White Curtains
Credit: Pexels

To ensure that panels look ample and drapey when closed, they should have a combined width that is 2 to 2½ times the width of the window. Exceptions: If you’re hanging curtains just to frame a window and don’t intend to shut them, you can round down to 1½ times the width. Pleated panels have fullness built in, so their width should more or less match the span you’re covering.

3 of 10

Advertisement

4 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

Where Should They Be Mounted In Relation to the Window?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - where to hang curtains
Credit: Cavan Images/Getty Images

Generally, hanging curtain brackets on the wall above and outside the window molding looks best, since it allows fabric to fall gracefully. If you have detailed window frames you don’t want to cover, an inside mount (hanging curtains within the frame, as you would with a tension rod) can work. Below are two hanging tricks that decorators love for maximizing windows—you can opt for just one technique or use both on the same window.

Rule 1: Hang Curtains Above the Frame

To create the illusion of a taller window, mount the rod four to six inches above the window frame—or halfway between the frame and the ceiling molding. (But within reason—don’t go more than eight inches above the frame or it might look awkward.) A track mounted on the ceiling also lengthens windows. Be sure to account for the extra fabric when measuring.

Rule 2: Hang Curtains Wider Than the Frame

Extending the rod three to six inches beyond the frame on each side makes a window feel grander and allows extra light to stream in when the curtains are open (the fabric hangs against the wall without blocking the glass). You can also use this plan to reveal pretty molding. In this case, you may want to leave as much as 12 inches on either side. Remember to adjust your width measurements for this look.

4 of 10

5 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

What About the Top?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - Curtain header with rings or grommets
Credit: Lus Ferraz/EyeEm/Getty Images

The top hem of a curtain, known as the heading, can help define the overall look—casual or formal, feminine or sleek—and also play a part in functionality (allowing the panel to slide easily or not). Here’s a quick rundown of common options.

Option 1: Basic Heading, With Hooks

A traditional flat heading that attaches to the rod via rings stitched into its top hem or, sometimes, drapery hooks (the rings attach to the hooks). With either setup, the curtains move easily.

Option 2: Rod-Pocket Heading

A channel along the top holds the rod and creates a casual, gathered effect. A nice choice for curtains that will stay put, because shimmying the fabric back and forth can be difficult.

Option 3: Pleated Heading

There are many styles, from narrow pencil pleats to wide, flat box pleats. Because they’re structured, these panels read more formal than do other types. Pleated curtains generally operate with drapery hooks and rings.

Option 4: Tab-Top Heading

Flat loops of fabric hang on the rod. This can look relaxed with sheers or buttoned-up with stiffer fabrics. A variation on this theme is tie-tops, with bows instead of flat loops—still casual but more feminine and romantic.

5 of 10

6 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

What Type of Curtain Rod Should I Use?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - Types of curtain rods
Credit: phototropic/Getty Images

Decorative curtain rods should relate to the style of the room. Those that are completely hidden from view can be chosen based on function alone. Here are common options.

Option 1: Classic Rod

An adjustable pole, often featuring ornamental end caps (finials), that attaches to the wall with brackets. Match the metal to other finishes in the room (check out West Elm for a wide selection). You can buy a double curtain rod if you want to layer with sheers.

Option 2: Return Rod

An adjustable U-shaped rod that screws directly into the wall. Panels wrap around the curved sides, making this a good solution for blocking out light. 

Option 3: Track Rod

Drapery hooks attach to pulleys inside a track. Can be installed on a wall or the ceiling. Some tracks resemble a rod with finials, concealing all moving parts inside the pole. Curtains glide effortlessly.

Option 4: Tension Rod

The easiest and cheapest but least sturdy option, it adjusts to fit inside a window frame with no hardware. Bare-bones, it’s meant only for lightweight panels or café curtains. They're also a very affordable option (try this minimalist one) and ideal for rental apartments. 

6 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

Do I Need Tiebacks?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - curtain with tie-backs
Credit: RUNSTUDIO/Getty Images

If you want to be able to pull curtains to the side for more light or a swoopy, formal look, tiebacks are the answer. They’re also a nice way to showcase a view. Mount a curved metal bracket or a peg (known as a rosette) on the wall about two-thirds of the way down the window (this option comes in multiple finishes). Match the room and the rod for style and finish. There are simple fabric tiebacks and fancy ropes with tassels for a grander effect. More casual: tying a curtain in the center of a window with matching fabric or a wide grosgrain ribbon.

7 of 10

8 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

Types of Window Blinds and Shades

Types of Window Blinds and Shades, bathroom with blinds
Credit: martin barraud/Getty Images

Think blinds or shades are the best option for your space? They can provide a clean, minimalist look to a room and are also ideal for modern home decor. Check out all of the styles below before you make your pick.

Venetian Blinds

When you think about window blinds, you're likely thinking about this classic style with horizontal slots that can pivot open and closed to control the amount of light that filters through. If you want to control the light in your bedroom, look for room-darkening blinds with slats that overlap, and consider installing the blinds over the window frame rather than inside it.

Roller Shades

For a modern look, roller shades that unroll from the top of the window are a great option. With many materials to choose from, you can find everything from sheer to blackout shades.

Roman Shades

Roman shades work similarly to roller shades, but they have panels that stack up evenly when the shade is opened. This style lends a touch more elegance than standard roller shades.

Solar Shades

Similar in style to roller shades, solar shades are specifically designed to block UV rays and glare, making them ideal for a home office or a room that gets a lot of sun.

Panel Track Blinds

A popular option for sliding glass doors or patio doors, wide vertical panels slide open and closed along a track. These blinds come in a variety of materials, including solar-blocking fabric and woven wood.

8 of 10

9 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

What About Installation?

Curtains and Window Treatments Guide - How to install curtains
Credit: Rawpixel/Getty Images

How to Install Curtains

A handyman can hang curtains for you. Expect to pay $55 to $95 an hour, depending on where you live. Figure about 20 minutes per window for a basic rod with brackets, and 45 minutes per window for a track rod. If you would rather do it yourself, hanging ready-made curtains is not that difficult. Rods usually come with mounting hardware and instructions. You may need to buy rings separately. Beyond that, hanging panels involves a stepladder, a tape measure, a pencil, a level, a handheld drill, a screwdriver, and a stud finder. If there are no studs where you’re anchoring brackets, use toggle bolts instead of screws. You can view helpful how-to videos from West Elm and Pottery Barn.

How to Install Blinds or Roller Shades

Depending upon your skill level, installing horizontal blinds can also be a DIY project. Follow the step-by-step instructions from the Home Depot. If you order directly from a blinds company, they will often offer a free in-home consultation, as well as deals on installation. 

9 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 10

Save FB Tweet
Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

Where to Shop for Curtains and Blinds

Purple Bedroom
Credit: Pexels

There’s no substitute for touching fabric and feeling its heft, so it’s a good idea to check out curtains in the store or order swatches (higher-end sites will allow you to do this) before making a purchase. Some retailers will even lend you large fabric samples to take home and hang in front of your window. Below are some reliable sources, most of which you can visit in person as well as online.

Lower-Priced Curtain Sources

A range of colors and pretty patterns abound, but materials are mostly limited to unlined cotton, linen, and polyester.

  • Amazon
  • Urban Outfitters
  • World Market
  • Bed Bath and Beyond
  • Wayfair
  • Lowe's
  • IKEA 

Mid-Priced Curtain Sources

Many curtains from these retailers are lined, so they’ll drape better.

  • West Elm 
  • Pottery Barn 
  • Crate & Barrel 
  • Anthropologie 
  • Restoration Hardware
  • Williams Sonoma
  • Lulu and Georgia

Higher-Priced Curtain Sources

Expect to find every style, rendered in especially luxurious fabrics.

  • Calico Corners (made to order)
  • Horchow 
  • The Shade Store (made to order)
  • The Curtain Exchange (made to order)
  • Ballard Designs

Where to Buy Blinds

Our Panel (Get It?) of Curtain Experts:

Ian Gibbs, cofounder of The Shade Store, a custom-drapery retailer
Jackie Von Tobel, an interior designer and the author of The Design Directory of Window Treatments

10 of 10

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Real Simple Editors

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 10 Window Curtains: What About Fabric and Color?
    2 of 10 How Long Should Curtains Be?
    3 of 10 How Wide Should Curtains Be?
    4 of 10 Where Should They Be Mounted In Relation to the Window?
    5 of 10 What About the Top?
    6 of 10 What Type of Curtain Rod Should I Use?
    7 of 10 Do I Need Tiebacks?
    8 of 10 Types of Window Blinds and Shades
    9 of 10 What About Installation?
    10 of 10 Where to Shop for Curtains and Blinds

    Share options

    Pinterest Mail Email iphone Send Text Message Print

    Login

    Shop | Real Simple Logo

    • Round Area Rugs
    • Plant Stands
    • Pendant Lighting
    • Curtains
    • Throw Blankets
    • Throw Pillows
    • Mirrors
    • Wall Decor
    • Blinds
    • Living Room Furniture
    • Shop More

    Real Simple may receive compensation when you click through and purchase from links contained on this website.

    Real Simple Logo

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Help
    • Media Kit
    • Content Licensing
    • Sitemap

    Connect

    Follow Us
    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Other Meredith Sites

    Other Meredith Sites

    • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
    • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
    • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
    • Better Homes & Gardens this link opens in a new tab
    • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
    • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
    • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
    • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
    • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
    • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
    • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
    • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
    • Health this link opens in a new tab
    • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
    • Instyle this link opens in a new tab
    • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
    • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
    • More this link opens in a new tab
    • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
    • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
    • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
    • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
    • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
    • Parents this link opens in a new tab
    • People this link opens in a new tab
    • People en Español this link opens in a new tab
    • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
    • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
    • Shape this link opens in a new tab
    • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
    • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
    • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
    • Travel & Leisure this link opens in a new tab
    MeredithAll products and services featured are selected by our editors. Real Simple may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Real Simple is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporationthis link opens in a new tab. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.realsimple.com

    View image

    Your Guide to Curtains and Window Treatments
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.