Pleated curtains are timeless, especially popular styles like pinch pleats or goblet pleats.
They’re always in style, and are a staple in specific rooms in a house like the dining room, living room, and primary bedroom.
If they do become outdated, it’s usually because of a fabric design fad that has passed, not because of the fact that it’s a pleated curtain. The same concept applies to outdated valances as well.
So, what kinds of fabrics and pleated curtain styles are currently in style, and what should you choose to make sure your curtain stays trendy and timeless for years to come?
Here are some tips.
Pick a Well Known and Popular Pleat Style
While unique ideas like color-contrast box pleat curtains or pleats adorned with tassels and metal buttons are unique, they also can become outdated quickly.
Stick to standard pleats that have been popular for decades. Consider curtains like:
- Pinch pleat curtains
- Euro pleat curtains
- Goblet curtains
- Cartridge pleat curtains
Pick a Fabric That Isn’t Overbearing or Transient
Stick with fabrics that have classic patterns like leaf scrolls, stripes, or simple florals. Stay away from novel fabrics that have unique patterns and color contrasts.
They’re fun when they first come out from the design studio, but quickly go out of style.
Here are some ideas.
Ravello in Periwinkle pinch pleat curtain, a classic Jacobean floral design.
Antelope in Port pinch pleat curtain, a simple dot stripe pattern.
Woodgate in Putty pinch pleat curtain, an equestrian paisley medallion design.
Dandelion in Slate pinch pleat curtain, a modern floral design with a subtle dash of color.
Don’t Do Curtains That Are Too Short
And finally, as a reminder from our drapery workroom –
No matter how expensive the fabric you choose is, no matter how classic and timeless the fabric design and pleat style are, it’s all irrelevant if your pleated curtain is too short and doesn’t fall at the right length.
So stay away from curtains that are too short.
Proper Floor Length Pleated Curtains
Two Story Curtains Should Span Both Window Levels
Two-story pleated curtains with bustle swags over patio doors and arched windows.
The same rule applies to transom windows and decorative windows like these.
Sill Length Curtains Need Fullness and Length
Sill length curtains need to come all the way down to the sill, and proper fulness is especially important with this style of pleated curtain. Otherwise, they’ll just look too small. A general rule is 4 pleats per each 12 to 15 inches of width to cover.
Avoid the Embarrassment of Curtains That Are Too Short
A good designer always knows where a curtain’s length should stop. If they don’t, it’s a clear sign of their inexperience and may be time to find another.
The examples below are a major faux pas and should be avoided at all costs.
