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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

Fmfunctex Black-White Sheer Sliding Door Curtain for Living Room 1 Panel Modern Tree Branch Print Linen Textured Window Curtain for Office Single Panel 100w x 84

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.

FMFUNCTEX Black-White Sheer Sliding Door Curtain for Living...
  • WINDOW CURTAIN: 1 Panel, 100" w x 84"...
  • NATURAL INSPIRED PATTERN: Black tree...
  • DRAPE IN SHAPE: These thick and...
  • GROMMET TOP CURTAINS: 14 silver grey...
  • EASY MAINTENANCE: The curtains offer...


2. Panel Pair

Lush Decor Reyna Window Curtain Panel Pair, 54 x 84, Navy

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.

Lush Decor Reyna Ruffle Window Curtain Panel Set for Living,...
  • Lush Décor Reyna window panel set are...
  • Delicate, elegant, navy window curtain...
  • 2 panel navy curtain set measures 84”H...
  • Curtains are not lined, but allow for...
  • Due to the delicate nature of the...


3. Window Treatment Set

Complete Window Sheer Voile Curtain Panel Set with 4 Attached Panels (55x84" Each) and 2 attached Valances with Beads and 2 Tiebacks - Easy Installation - Multicolor Floral Rose and Solid Burgundy

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.

Sapphire Home Complete Window Sheer Two Tone Curtain Panel...
  • DURABLE AND VERSATILE: Our window sheer...
  • COMPLETE SET: Our sheer curtain set...
  • EASY CARE: Proper care is essential to...
  • WIDE VARIETY OF DESIGNS: Proper care is...
  • ABOUT US: Proper care is essential to...


4. Valance

No. 918 Erica Crushed Texture Sheer Voile Beaded Ascot Rod Pocket Curtain Valance, 51" x 24

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.

No. 918 Erica Crushed Voile Ascot Beaded Sheer Rod Pocket...
  • Crushed sheer voile fabric
  • Gently filters light while enhancing...
  • Rod pocket design allows for easy...
  • Machine washable
  • Complete the look with the matching No....


5. Curtain Liner

KGORGE Blackout Curtain Liners - Hang with Rod Pocket / Hooks, Curtain Liners for 63-inch Curtains Thermal Insulated Energy Saving Drapes (Set of 2, W27 x L60 Each, Grayish White, Bonus Hooks)

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.

KGORGE Blackout Curtain Liners - Hang with Rod Pocket/Hooks,...
  • EFFECTIVE BLACKOUT: 2 panels per...
  • ENERGY SAVING: Using the eco-friendly...
  • HANGING OPTION: Each pair of the liners...
  • HOME DECORATION: KGORGE Blackout curtain...
  • EASY CARE: Good quality finishing will...


6. Window Scarf

DONREN 144 Inches Long Window Scarf Valances for Party - Luxury Soft Gray Semi Sheer Curtain Scarf for Window,1 Panel (Gray,1 Panel)

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.

DONREN 144 Inches Long Window Scarf Valances for Party -...
  • High-Grade Fabrics:DONREN Semi-sheer...
  • Stylish & Privacy: Semi-Sheer window...
  • Multifunction:Window scarf can be used ...
  • Ready Made: Package includes 1 panel...
  • Easy Care:The window scarfs are...


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

Kenney Chelsea 5/8" Standard Decorative Window Curtain Rod, 28-48

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.

Kenney KN71606 Chelsea Ball End Standard Decorative Window...
  • The Kenney Chelsea 5/8" Standard...
  • 5/8" diameter curtain rod adjusts from...
  • For use with light to medium weight...
  • Steel rod in black finish with...
  • Includes: one telescoping curtain rod...


BGment Rod Pocket Blackout Curtains for Bedroom - Thermal...
  • Package Includes: Set of 2 navy blue...
  • Rod Pocket Construction: Our block out...
  • Light Blocking: Our short window...
  • Thermal Insulated: Our energy saving...
  • Care Instructions: Our durable blackout...


2. Tab Top

Sun Zero Easton Blackout Energy Effcient Tab Top Curtain Panel, 40" x 84

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.

Sun Zero Easton Energy Saving Blackout Tab Top Curtain...
  • Blackout technology blocks out most...
  • Energy efficient design reduces energy...
  • Thermal properties help keep summer heat...
  • Noise reduction up to 30% helps you get...
  • Tab top design allows for easy hanging...


3. Grommet and Eyelet

NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtain Panel - (Baby Pink/Lavender Pink Color) Thermal Insulated Light Reducing Blind/Drape for Girl's Room, 52Wx84L, 1 Panel

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.

NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtain Panel - (Baby Pink/Lavender...
  • ELEGANT DESIGN: 1-panel BLACKOUT CURTAIN...
  • AMAZING MATERIAL: This unique, soft, and...
  • MULTIFUNCTION: These Blackout Window...
  • GOOD CHOICE: Perfect drapery option for...
  • EASY CARE: Good-quality finishing will...


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.

Exclusive Home Curtains Bella Window Curtain Panel Pair with...
  • The Bella drapes are solid panels on a...
  • Includes: Two (2) curtain panels, each...
  • Slides onto curtain rod via hidden tabs...
  • Recommend ordering 2 to 3 times rod...
  • Care instructions: Spot clean and/or...


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.

Lush Decor Feather Arrow Geo Room-Darkening Window Curtain...
  • CURTAIN PANEL PAIR: These high-quality,...
  • LIGHT DARKENING: These lightweight...
  • VIBRANT PATTERN: Our curtain set has a...
  • FEATURES: Measuring 84" H x 52" W, these...
  • LUSH DECOR: We offer innovative and...


4. Contemporary Curtains

Exclusive Home Curtains Augustus Metallic Grommet Top Panel Pair, 54x96, Off-white, 2 Count

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.

Exclusive Home Curtains - EH8246-01 2-96G Augustus Metallic...
  • Augustus drapes offer a rich metallic...
  • Includes: Two (2) curtain panels, each...
  • 8 matte silver grommets per panel;...
  • Recommend ordering 2 to 3 times rod...
  • Care instructions: Spot clean and/or...


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

LINENWALAS Cotton Curtains for Doors 8 Feet Set of 2, Linen Textured Long Doors Curtains for Home Decor, Hangs Elegantly with Back Loops (4.5ft x 8ft, Black Leaf)

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.

 


2. Linen

Linen Curtains Room Darkening Light Blocking Thermal Insulated Heavy Weight Textured Rich Linen Burlap Curtains for Bedroom / Living Room Curtain, 52 by 84 Inch - Taupe (1 Panel)

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.

 

H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain 84 Inches Long for...
  • STANDARD SIZE: Sold per single panel in...
  • LIGHT BLOCKING: This elegant window...
  • ENERGY EFFICIENT: This magic window...
  • UNIQUE DECOR: Add a touch of classic...
  • EASY CARE: Machine washable in cold...


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.

 

StangH Theater Red Velvet Curtains - Super Soft Velvet...
  • WELL MADE: Sold as 2 panels, each...
  • LUXURY LOOK: The plush velvet curtains...
  • LIGHT DIMMING: Rich velvet curtains can...
  • ENERGY EFFICIENT: Thick heavy insulated...
  • EASY CARE: Machine wash or dry clean....


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.

 

Lazzzy White Faux Silk Curtains for Bedroom Dupioni Light...
  • Quality Material: Lazzzy Curtains Made...
  • Set includes: 2 panels window curtains...
  • Great design: Perfect combination of...
  • Colors: 6 vibrant colors & 3 different...
  • Widely use:They can blend in easily with...


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.

 

Jiyoyo Embroidered Lace Sheer Curtains for Living Room...
  • Beige Color Sheers & Design--Sheer...
  • One panel Price--Price is one panel...
  • Nice Privacy-- Luxurious European Design...
  • 2.5 inch Rod pockets-- Decor You...
  • Easy Care-- Luxurious Sheer Curtain...


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.

 

Valea Home Soft Burlap Natural Tan Rod Pocket Window Curtain...
  • Each package includes 1 panel, measures...
  • This tan curtain is made of durable...
  • 3" rod pocket, 1" header, 0.4" side hem....
  • Let natural light in but still provide...
  • Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, cool...


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.

 

jinchan 90% Blackout Moroccan Tile Curtains 84 Inches Long...
  • 90% Blackout Curtains: Add some Moroccan...
  • Effective Light Blocking: Made of...
  • Grommet Top Style: Designed with classic...
  • Style It Your Way: Featuring stylish...
  • Care Instructions: Machine washable in...


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.

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