25 Types of Curtains: Ultimate Guide to Curtain Styles

Curtains don’t just frame the windows of your home. They add an element of finesse to the overall feel of the room. Think of them as the bow that ties everything together. With so many types of curtains on the market, it can be a hassle trying to select a style that will work for your space.

If you’re looking for curtains, here’s your window of opportunity! We’ve gathered everything you need to know about the types of curtains in this article to help you make an informed decision.

The Most Popular Types of Curtains According to Category

We’ve arranged the different types of curtains according to the different categories. This way, it would be easier to find what you’re looking for.

Types of Curtain Sets

When you’re choosing the types of curtains that suit your home, you should consider the type of set. Curtain sets are the number of panels that provide the coverage your window needs. We’ve narrowed down the choices, so you can easily filter them.

1. Single Panel

You can cover the whole window using a single panel. To open the panel, you can tie it to one side of the window, which gives a fresh and asymmetrical look to your furnishing. Single panels are the ideal pick for modern and casual styles.

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2. Panel Pair

This set features two curtains. Each curtain is usually placed on either side of the window. You can cover the window by pulling the two curtains together in the middle. When pulled open to the sides, they give a symmetrical look. Panel pairs are perfect for classic style homes.

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3. Window Treatment Set

To generate full coverage for your window, a window treatment set has all you need. It includes a valance with one or two curtains. It may even feature extra accessories, like tiebacks.

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4. Valance

This is a short curtain that can be placed at your main curtain’s top. Although a valance is optional, it can finish off your decor nicely.

It can be purchased separately or with a full window treatment set. It can also be used alone for small windows.

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5. Curtain Liner

Another type of optional hangings is the curtain liners. If you choose sheer curtains, layering with liners gives you the versatility you need.

Curtain liners can provide you with the opacity required for more privacy. They can even come with a noise-reduction feature or thermal insulation.

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6. Window Scarf

A window scarf is hung at the top of the main curtain like a valance. It creates a remarkable appearance around the window frame and adds flair to the room.

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Attachment Types

Selecting the type of attachment for your curtains almost as important as the types of curtains, themselves. The type of attachment or heading highly contributes to the finishing look of your room. Read on to understand the details of the different types.

1. Rod Pocket

The main characteristic of these curtains is the single rod pocket that’s sewn into the fabric. Then, the rod is driven through that pocket. Cotton and linen are perfect fabrics for this type.

The pocket is usually embroidered or has ornaments. Therefore, rod pocket curtains can come with or without a valance.

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2. Tab Top

Only loops of fabric at the curtain’s top are sewn in this type. The rod is then fed through these loops. Tab top curtains provide a nonchalant atmosphere. Therefore, they’re a famous choice for casual and contemporary style homes.

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3. Grommet and Eyelet

These curtains have eyelets, which are large holes where the rod hangs. These eyelets are braced with grommets. These modern-style curtains are utilized in both homes and offices. They give off a fresh impression to the room.

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4. Hidden Tab

The hidden tab curtains are a mix between the tab top and the rod pocket curtains. With this attachment type, the tabs hanging the curtains are hidden behind additional fabric. The pinch pleated fabric is added to keep the tabs out of sight. Hidden tab curtains are utilized mostly with traditional and classic decor.

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Curtain Styles

The style of curtains depends on the overall style you employ for your room decor. It should complement the furniture. Check out the different styles we gathered here.

1. Classic Curtains

Classic curtains are of the most used curtains due to their versatility. They can be used with or without a valance.

They’re usually utilized with traditional decor and furniture. However, they can be used with bohemian, country,  and contemporary styles. You can’t go wrong with a classic curtain!

2. Casual Curtains

If you’re looking for curtains for a bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom, casual curtains are a top choice. They give a free and easy vibe to the place.

Normally, casual curtains are used without a valance. The most utilized attachment types for the task are the grommet and eyelet curtains.

3. Modern Curtains

Modern curtains are associated with giving a powerful statement through art. The colored patterns, solid lines, and abstract elements are pretty eye-catching. Therefore, they usually stand out in the room.

If you’re looking for a bold style, pick one of these curtains. The tab top and grommet and eyelet curtains are the most popular modern curtains.

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4. Contemporary Curtains

Contemporary curtains can be considered the fresher modification of classic or traditional curtains. They’re available in earthy tones, as well as bright and bold tones.

Contemporary curtains add a sense of poise to the room. They’re also perfect for layering.

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Curtain Length

Since not all curtain lengths are fit for all applications, the right length depends on two simple factors. These two factors are the window size and the style you’re going for.

1. Apron

Apron curtains elongate the shape of the window. They’re hung on a rod slightly higher than the window. They extend a few inches below the frame.

They’re installed on smaller windows to give the impression of larger window sizes, especially when they’re closed. The apron curtains are mostly used on kitchen and bathroom windows.

2. Window Sill

These curtains are perfect for many types of rooms. Their length ends with the end of the window sill or slightly higher.

They can be hung in kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, or any room where the window is frequently opened.

3. Floor-length

If you have ceiling-to-floor windows or sliding doors, floor-length curtains are your best option. They extend to the floor or an inch higher.

They’re also an excellent fit for small windows that are opened only once in a blue moon. Not only will the windows seem larger, but the room will also appear broader.

4. Puddle

Puddle curtains extend several inches longer than the floor-length. They give a grandiose and classy sense to the room’s atmosphere.

Curtain Fabrics and Thickness

By selecting a specific type of fabric for your curtain, you control the style of the room. You also determine the level of privacy for each room.

Some materials used for sheer curtains are light and thin. Others are completely opaque for blackout curtains.

1. Cotton

Cotton is a semi-sheer fabric that’s perfect for various applications. Its semi-transparent texture sustains a good level of privacy while allowing the sunlight to enter the room.

Cotton curtains can be layered with other fabrics. Another bonus that makes them a popular choice is that they’re easily cleaned.

 

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2. Linen

Linen curtains are somewhat heavier than cotton curtains. Therefore, they provide an extra level of privacy. However, they let sufficient sunlight into the room.

Linen carries dust quickly. Therefore, it’s not as easily cleaned as cotton.

 

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3. Velvet

Velvet is an elegant material with the utmost opacity. It doesn’t let any light into the room. If you’re a sensitive sleeper, velvet curtains are a perfect choice for your bedroom.

They might even reduce the outside noise. However, they’re hard to clean. So, you’ll need to have them professionally cleaned.

 

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4. Silk

Silk is a chic and stylish fabric. The amount of light it lets into the room depends on its thickness. It can range from semi-sheer to completely opaque.

Like velvet curtains, silk curtains aren’t easily cleaned. They require professional cleaning. These curtains are a famous choice in traditional-style homes.

 

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5. Lace

If you like plenty of sunlight in the morning, lace curtains are the best choice. Lace is a sheer material. Therefore, it won’t give your room any privacy.

You can layer it with other materials or curtain liners to maintain your privacy protection. If you’re looking for curtains for your living room, consider lace curtains. They’ll give you ample sunlight during the day.

 

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6. Burlap

This plain fabric is similar to linen in texture but heavier. It provides a great level of privacy but doesn’t let that much light into the room. Burlap curtains are also easy to clean.

 

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7. Synthetic

Synthetic curtains are in high demand on the market for many reasons. They resemble natural fabric beautifully and are easy to clean. They’re also affordable.

So, if you’re on a tight budget, synthetic curtains are your go-to option.

 

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Wrap Up

Curtains are like the cherry on top of room decor. They can change the appearance of a room drastically. Plus, they add a stylish touch to the furniture. Remember to have an overview of the style you want your house to have. Also, determine the amount of privacy you need for each room before choosing the fabric.

In this article, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about types of curtains. It should help you in choosing the right fit for you.