Fabrics, lengths, colors and finishes… Choosing the right curtain is an art to be mastered in order to obtain the desired effect. Whether you want to protect yourself from a vis-à-vis, create an intimate atmosphere, add a final decorative touch, block out the light or, on the contrary, make the most of natural light, here are our best tips to guide you in the choice of your curtains.
How to choose the right curtains for a perfect decoration?
Start by studying the part, its needs and areas for improvement, because each one has its specificities. It is therefore essential to adapt the curtains to the space :
In the kitchen, with grease splashes and ambient humidity, choose Venetian blinds that are easy to dust and clean. But if you absolutely want to install curtains for decoration, opt for polyester models that can easily be washed in the washing machine.
In the living room, it is a question of choosing a light and discreet fabric to protect yourself from the vis-à-vis, but above all to create an intimate atmosphere by letting the light filter through. The ideal? A veil in cotton, polyester or linen.
In the bedroom, we prefer blackout curtains to be able to plunge the room into complete darkness at nightfall, but also to create a subdued and zen atmosphere during the day. Objective ? Block out the light.
The ideal size for curtains
First step, and not least: take the measurements of the window that will host your future curtains. Measure both lengthwise and widthwise.
In terms of length, it all depends on your tastes. Some prefer decorative curtains that fall to the floor, others prefer short cropped curtains. In any case, be aware that it is customary to place the rod 15 cm above the window, so you will have to add 15 cm to your measurement.
In terms of width, it all depends on the type of waves (or not) you want. Remember to take into account the length of the rod and to provide 30 cm more to ensure a minimum of undulations.
Tip : if in doubt, do not hesitate to add 10 cm to your measurements, especially since some fabrics can shrink in the wash. You can then always retouch and hem if necessary. Better long and wide curtains, and therefore retractable, than curtains that are too short!
Which fabric to choose for curtains?
The spirit you want to instill in the room is also a criterion to take into account when choosing your decorative curtains. Thus, cotton and polyester (the most common on the market) will go well with a contemporary atmosphere.
Linen and cotton will be favored for a natural decoration with a country spirit, although they must be doubled to avoid discoloration due to UV rays.
What colors should I choose for my curtains?
Final touch of a decoration, the curtains are chosen in the very last place according to the color of the walls, the floor, the ceiling and the furniture, even the beams. Note that in general, light colors (white, cream, beige, mouse grey, etc.) enlarge the surfaces, unlike dark colors (black, navy, dark green, etc.).
Tip : in a low-ceilinged room, don’t be afraid to opt for striped curtains (in the direction of the height). Their visual effect will increase the impression of height.
Which finishes should I choose for my curtains?
Only one rule: adapt the style of your decorative curtains to the size of your window. It’s all about harmony. The rest ? It’s up to your tastes:
Eyelets: very practical, these metal rings slide perfectly on the rod and allow you to obtain regular waves and a perfect fall. A faultless one.
The knots: these are small knots of fabric to be formed around the rod. Their rendering is very elegant (ideal for a chic country style). However, the knots are not necessarily very practical for a curtain to handle every day.
Legs: perfect for light curtains, these fabric rings slip on the rod for an airy and delicate effect.
The curtain with gathering braid: ideal for curtains, the rail affixed to the rod allows easy daily handling and ensures regular undulations.
Tip : when a curtain has Flemish pleats (i.e. large pinched pleats on the upper part of the curtain), it gains in volume and sophistication.
