Hello Decor Friends,
One way to breathe new life into a worn out space is to look at the window coverings. As of late, I have had a lot of questions regarding curtain styles. The right window treatments add warmth, elegance, and functionality, while the wrong ones can instantly date a room. If you’re still using certain curtain styles from decades past, it might be time for an upgrade! Here are three outdated curtain trends that are best left in the past—and, of course, stylish alternatives to replace them with.
1. Heavy, Overly Ornate Drapes
Once a staple in formal living rooms and dining spaces, heavy drapes with elaborate swags, tassels, and valances scream outdated opulence. While they may have worked in grand Victorian homes, today’s interiors lean towards lighter, more breathable aesthetics. These bulky window treatments often overwhelm a room and block out much-needed natural light.
Designer Tip
Swap those heavy drapes for tailored, floor-length panels in linen or cotton. Opt for neutral tones or soft patterns to keep things fresh and timeless. If you still love a touch of drama, choose rich textures like velvet in a modern, streamlined design.
2. Short, Café-Style Curtains in the Wrong Places
Café curtains can be charming in a rustic kitchen, but when used in living rooms, bedrooms, or formal spaces, they can make windows look awkward and unfinished. These half-length curtains often cut the visual height of a room, making ceilings feel lower and the space smaller.
Designer Tip
Embrace the beauty of full-length curtains that skim the floor. They create an illusion of height, making the space feel grander and more polished. For kitchens and bathrooms, consider sleek Roman shades or woven wood blinds for a stylish, modern alternative.
3. Cheap, Plastic Vertical Blinds
A relic of the ’80s and ’90s, plastic vertical blinds were once the go-to choice for covering sliding glass doors and large windows. However, their clunky, noisy operation and tendency to break or yellow over time make them a less-than-stylish option today. They can make an otherwise beautiful space feel dated.
Designer Tip
Ditch the plastic slats for sheer curtains, panel track blinds, or elegant drapery on a ceiling-mounted rod. If you need practical light control for large windows or patio doors, opt for woven wood shades or modern motorized roller blinds that blend function with aesthetics.
From one decor friend to another, our window treatments should enhance our spaces, not age them. By moving on from these outdated styles and embracing fresher, more contemporary alternatives, you’ll instantly breathe new life into your home. Ready for a curtain refresh?
If you have something in your home that looks like this, it's probably time for a refresh.
Until Next Time,
~Tatum
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