Your Guide to 12 Types of Window Curtains (And When to Use Them)

When decorating your home, don’t forget to consider all the different types of window curtains you can choose from!

Choosing the right type of curtain can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your house. But it can be hard to decide which one is best when there are so many options!

That’s why in this blog post we’ll be covering 12 different types of curtains and when to use them. 

Let’s jump in!

What to consider when choosing a curtain style

The main things to consider when choosing a curtain style are the décor style and purpose of the room. You will also want to consider the amount of light you want in the room. 

It’s not just about the curtain fabric and color. You also want to consider the cut, length, and more.

Certain curtain styles are more formal than others, and you will want to think about this as well.

Different types of window curtains

1. Pleated Drapes – In this style the fabric is folded and stitched into pleats at the top of the curtain. Often used in traditional and formal décor. These work well in bedrooms and living rooms for a dressier look.
2. Rod Pocket Curtain – This style has a pocket created out of fabric at the top of the curtain used to insert the curtain rod. This is a simple, versatile style, and can be used in both formal and informal décor. These work well in almost any room in the house.
3. Grommet Curtain – Grommet curtains have rings attached along the top edge of the curtain to insert the curtain rod. This style is really versatile. One advantage is they make for easy closing and opening, as the grommet rings slide very easily on the rod.
4. Sheers – Sheers are made of a thin translucent fabric. Sheers are a complement to your curtains and work well with most decorating styles. They provide daytime privacy while still allowing light into the room. Sheers work best in living rooms and bedrooms.
5. Black-out curtains – Blackout curtains typically have an extra layer of opaque fabric that provides light blocking. These are used mostly in bedrooms, to provide complete darkness and improved temperature insulation.
6. Tab-top curtains – Tab-top curtains have fabric loops at the top to hang the curtain from. These types of curtains work best in a very informal relaxed room, such as a porch or sun-room. 
7. Puddle-length curtains – These curtains are longer than floor length, and puddle on the floor at the bottom. This style is most common in more formal traditional décor and work well in formal living rooms. 
8. Scarf curtains – Scarf curtains resemble a scarf draped over the curtain rod. When used in combination with floor length drapes, it will give you a very formal, traditional look. This style is most common in living rooms and bedrooms. 

If used as a stand-alone scarf over the curtain rod, then you create a more relaxed style, which can be used in kitchens and informal dining spaces as well as bathrooms. 

9. Light-filtering curtains – Made of a thin fabric such as linen, they allow light through, but are not as transparent as sheers. These curtains provide an informal look and work well in family rooms and sunrooms, allowing natural light while still providing privacy.
10. Apron-length curtains – These curtains are just long enough to fall a few inches below the window sill, and work well in kitchens and rooms that may have an obstacle below the window such as a radiator or a ledge. 
11. Café curtains – These curtains are short curtains that only cover the bottom half to two-thirds of the window. They provide privacy from the outside while still allowing plenty of natural light. They are used most often in kitchens or bathrooms. 
12. Valances – A valance is a short curtain that goes across the top of the window, like a scarf curtain. A valance can be used in combination with full length curtains to provide visual interest and a more formal finished look. 

On its own, a valance provides an informal relaxed feel. A valance in combination with full length curtains is most commonly used in living rooms and bedrooms while the stand-alone valance is often used in kitchens and bathrooms and very informal settings. 

Your top curtain choices

If this feels like too many choices, chances are one of the following will work well for you!

Here are the three most classic, versatile choices that will work in almost any room.

1. Pleated Drapes – If you’re not sure what type of drapes to use in your formal living or dining room, you can’t go wrong with pleated drapes.
2. Rod Pocket Curtain – if you need a go-with-everything curtain look, try rod pocket curtains.
3. Grommet Curtain – This style is also versatile and will fit in most decorating styles. This style is also very practical for family rooms since these curtains open and close so easily.

The grommet and rod pocket styles are so simple and versatile, they’re the only two types of curtains I have in my home!

Final Thoughts

There are so many different types of window curtains to choose from!

While many styles are incredibly versatile, other styles bring a unique look and feel to your room. 

You should consider the level of formality, ease of use, and privacy needs for your room when choosing curtains. Use this list to help you choose the best curtains for your room needs. 

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