Blog - Cortinas

When styling a space, curtains often take a backseat to furniture or wall decor. However, curtains are more than a finishing touch — they’re powerful elements that add texture, color, light control, and a sense of style to a room.

Choosing the right curtains can elevate any space, bringing warmth, elegance, and cohesiveness. 

1. Choose the Right Fabric and Texture

Curtains bring an opportunity to play with textures in your room. Lighter fabrics like linen or cotton add a breezy, casual feel, while heavier fabrics like velvet or jacquard bring richness and formality.

Consider the vibe you want for your space; for instance, velvet curtains can add luxury to a living room, whereas sheer curtains add airiness to a bedroom or kitchen.

2. Play with Color and Patterns

Color is a powerful styling tool, and curtains allow you to incorporate it without repainting walls or changing furniture. For a more cohesive look, match the curtain color with accent colors in the room.

If you're feeling bold, choose patterns like florals, geometric shapes, or abstract prints to add depth and personality to the room. Neutrals or pastels are ideal for a serene setting, while darker or jewel tones make a room feel more intimate and sophisticated.

3. Consider Curtain Length and Fullness

The length of your curtains plays a huge role in the room’s overall look. Floor-length curtains are perfect for living rooms and create an elegant, formal vibe, while shorter curtains work better for spaces like kitchens or bathrooms.

Fullness is another key element. For a more luxurious, drapey look, choose curtains that are 1.5 to 3 times the width of your window. This creates a fuller, more dramatic effect. If you're not sure how to measure for curtains, a quick online guide can help you figure out the perfect fit.

And if you're asking yourself, "How many curtain panels do I need?" it's typically one panel per side for a standard look, but adding more panels will give a fuller, more dramatic appearance.

4. Choose the Right Pleats and Styles

Curtain styles like grommet, pinch pleats, or rod pockets each convey different aesthetics.

Grommet curtains have a modern, streamlined look, while pinch pleats add a tailored, classic feel. The pleat style can reinforce your room's overall theme, so consider pairing pleats with your furniture and decor style.

5. Layering and Light Control

Layering curtains offers light control and texture. For example, pairing sheer curtains with blackout drapes provides flexibility for privacy and lighting, ideal for bedrooms. This combo creates total darkness when needed and soft light during the day, while also adding depth and a polished look to the windows.

Bonus Tip: Where to Hang Curtains on a Window

When hanging curtains, be sure to place the rod several inches above the window frame. This creates the illusion of taller ceilings and makes the room feel more spacious. Also, consider how many curtain panels do I need—generally, one panel per side works for a simple look, but more panels will give you a fuller appearance.