Window dressing is easy to underestimate, but it can shape a room's interior design more than you'd expect. Whether it's curtains or blinds, they're the finishing touch on any decor, and there's a huge range of materials available to suit any style — though the right window treatment still needs to fit the specifics of the room. Here's what's shaping window treatment trends this year.
The right colors and prints
This year leans toward simplicity, functionality, and a natural feel. Neutral shades like beige and cream remain solid choices, alongside tones drawn from nature — greens and blues in particular. Earthy terracotta and warm golden hues are also holding strong. When it comes to prints, feel free to be bold this year; unique floral motifs, for example, can give any room a real lift when chosen thoughtfully.
Material
Cotton and linen remain popular for their natural, breathable feel, but denser materials or velvet are worth considering if you want more drama. Texture can range from the lightest fabrics to the densest, depending on the effect you're going for.
Types of window treatments
Here are ten curtain styles, from purely decorative to highly functional, to help you choose with confidence:
Single panel curtains — a chic, modern look designed to cover an entire window and pull to one side when opened.
Panel pair curtains — hung on both sides of the window, closed by pulling them together and left hanging or tied back with tiebacks when open.
Pinch pleat curtains — a more traditional style in thicker, heavier fabric, well suited to a primary bedroom, sitting room, or entertaining space.
Box pleat curtains — deep, uninterrupted folds running the full length of the fabric, commonly used in dining rooms, bedrooms, and lounges.
Goblet pleat curtains — delicate, goblet-shaped pleats at the top, best kept stationary and typically found in large, formal, high-ceilinged rooms.
Pencil pleat curtains — thinner, single pleats that work easily with a variety of curtain rods, well suited to bedrooms or living rooms.
Grommet curtains — a contemporary style with open rings, ideal for rooms where curtains get opened and closed often.
Rod pocket curtains — typically lightweight or sheer, more casual in style, and better suited to windows that aren't opened and closed frequently.
Blackout curtains — heavyweight material that blocks light and maximizes privacy, common in bedrooms, guest rooms, and home theatres.
Energy-efficient curtains — thick, heavy curtains that add extra insulation, helping keep air, heat, and cold from passing through the window.
Don't be afraid to get a little daring with window coverings — the right choice can complement a room's decor while still giving you the privacy you need.