Is There A Difference Between Curtains And Drapes?

Furniture and

rugs

may fill a space, but it’s the final layer of accessories, like

throw pillows

and window treatments, that really help a room feel finished and complete.

Curtains

and drapes can add softness, introduce pattern or texture, and offer privacy. But while the terms “curtains” and “drapes” are commonly used interchangeably, they aren’t entirely the same thing. Here are the differences between the two types of window treatments, plus expert advice on how to choose which one is right for your space.

How To Choose Between Curtains and Drapes

While curtains and drapes serve largely the same purpose, there are subtle differences between the two that can help you decide which to use in the various rooms of your own home. “I think the functions of your space are what you need to keep in mind,” notes Sarah Stephen, Director of Merchandising at Ballard Designs. “Do you want it to feel formal or relaxed? Do you want more or less privacy? Do you want to keep the room bright or to block out light?”

Style

What you’re aiming for style-wise may help you determine when to use curtains versus drapes.

Those areas designed to be especially comfortable and unfussy, like a den or family room, will call for something laidback. A sitting room or dining room—spaces often reserved for special occasions on the other hand, will likely call for something dressier.

Curtains are generally made from lighter weight fabrics and feel more casual; while drapes are typically made from heavier, more sumptuous fabrics and foster a sense of formality. You’ll find that curtains are often fabricated with light cottons and linens or relaxed fabrics, like buffalo check, gingham, or ticking stripes. Drapes, on the other hand, are more likely fabricated with richly textured materials like silk, velvet, wool, or damask.

Whichever route you choose, Stephen offers this advice: “Don’t feel scared to double up the panels for more of an impact.”

Function

When choosing between curtains and drapes, consider what your goals are for your space in terms of privacy and light-filtering capabilities. For rooms where you’d like to invite plenty of natural light, you’ll want to choose curtains made from sheer fabrics or lighter-weight materials that allow sunshine to stream through. (Of course, you can also purchase blackout curtains, which are made from more casual materials but are heavily lined to block out sunlight completely. These can be a smart choice for bedrooms and nurseries, where occupants may wish to sleep in, or in the case of the nursery, are going to bed when the sun’s still out.)

For those spaces that you want to feel cozier or are home to pieces that you wish to protect from constant sunlight, like a den or library, drapes may be the better option. By nature of their heavier fabrics, they more completely and consistently block light, allowing your space to feel darker and moodier no matter the time of day.

Consider how much privacy you’d prefer for a space too. Sheer curtains offer little to no privacy, while lighter-weight fabrics can be expected to offer some degree of privacy. For maximum privacy, opt for lined curtains or heavy drapes, but know that you’ll sacrifice natural light when they’re closed.

Be Wary of This Window Treatment Mistake

Whether you’re installing curtains or drapes, there’s one common practice to avoid, says Stephen: “One of the biggest mistakes is not hanging window treatments from the right height… and also hanging them too short.” Install your curtains and drapes like a professional by hanging them just below your ceiling (4-6 inches), rather than directly above the window; this way, your ceilings will look taller than they actually are. Accordingly, be sure to measure from this point to ensure that you select the right length for your window treatments. While length is ultimately a personal preference, curtains are designed to barely graze the floor, while luxe drapes can graze the floor or puddle a bit, for a more dramatic look.