EVERY WINDOW NEEDS A WARDROBE

Curtains make a room—but only when chosen correctly. When it comes to window treatments, it’s a matter of color and fabric, length and lining, and custom-made versus off-the-shelf.

Fabric --not too heavy, not too light to fall nicely on the window.

Sunlight will fade fabrics over time. If the room gets a lot of light, it's smart to avoid bright colors, since they tend to fade faster. Still, if you like to change out your rooms often, you can be less concerned with fading.

Neutral colors, though, are less likely to fade and more likely to blend into a room’s decor.

Hanging panels higher than the window will give a sense of height to the room. Designers often hang curtains about six inches above the window frame, but for a dramatic look, some go higher.

For a modern look, have the panel puddled on the floor, you'll want to add another few inches to your length.

 

When measuring the width of your window, be sure to add four to eight inches on both sides (for hem) and double the total number to ensure curtain fullness.

Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom ?
Custom window treatments offer many benefits: You can customize the dimensions to your window size and create a tailored look, like a perfectly fitted suit, in endless design options, from material to header style. With these options though, comes a considerable price difference from off-the-shelf curtain panels.

If custom curtains just aren't in your budget, I suggest spending a little more money on high-quality retail window treatments. I, like Restoration Hardware's Heavyweight Textured Belgian Linen Curtain Panels.