Grommet-Style Curtains

Grommet-style curtains feature metal rings that slide over a curtain rod. Even though it’s functional, grommets are and look mass-produced and don’t add any refined style to window treatments.

“Grommet style drapery may work for some spaces like a playroom or kid’s bedroom, but for any other space, I recommend a more tailored header style, such as a pleated top, inverted box pleat, or ripple fold,” suggests interior designer Cortney McClure. “[These styles] can dramatically change the overall feeling in a room’s livability and softness.”

Ornate Valances

Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated.

“Avoid overly ornate valances, which can feel dated and heavy,” says interior designer Danielle Chiprut. “They can feel at odds with today’s preference for light, airy interiors.”

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Danielle suggests a pinch pleat or tailor pleat window treatment in soft, natural fabrics like linen or velvet because they add a sense of elegance and sophistication yet still feel approachable.

“Consider layering curtains with woven wood shades or sheer panels to add texture without the weight of a traditional valance,” says Chiprut. “This approach balances elegance with modern sensibilities.”

Short Curtains

If your curtains are too short, it can create an imbalanced look.

“One of the biggest mistakes I see is drapery that’s too short—floating above the floor,” says interior designer Candace Plotz. “It creates a sense of imbalance and leaves the room feeling unfinished.”

Instead, Candace recommends opting for custom drapery to help ensure the measurements are exact.

“Ready-made panels rarely offer the perfect fit, and that’s where the magic happens,” says Candace. “Custom [window treatments] not only elevate the aesthetic, but also offers a level of quality and craftsmanship that mass-produced options simply can’t match.”

Exposed Curtain Hardware

Exposed hardware has its place, like in an industrial or more urban space, but overall the preference is to hide or minimize curtain hardware.

“We want to hide the [curtain] rod hardware as much as possible so the drapery gets all the attention it needs,” says McClure.

McClure recommends trying options like rod-pocket drapes or pleated panels with adjustable back tabs that allow the hardware to take a backseat and let the curtains shine.

Neutrals

Going with neutral-toned curtains are a safe choice, but designers recommend embracing bold patterns, textures, and trim to help tie everything together.

“I want to see more bold drapery fabric choices that tie wallpaper, wall paint, and decoration elements together,” says McClure. “There will always be a space for casual luxury neutrals and calm colors, but I believe pops of color, texture, and print can be just as impactful in the overall livability of a room.”

Chiprut suggests choosing fabrics and styles that complement the overall aesthetic of the room.

“Curtains are an opportunity to add softness, color, or pattern; but they should enhance your room, not compete with it,” she says.

No Trim or Layers

Curtains with trimming are a great way to get the custom, tailored look and are an opportunity to add unexpected texture and color.

“Custom trim—whether in a contrasting hue or subtle fringe—takes drapery from functional to striking,” says Plotz. She adds that trimming can help elevate a room’s design.

Another way to add depth to your window treatments is by layering.

“Pairing sheer panels with blackout curtains or adding woven shades underneath the curtain can bring texture and dimension to your windows,” says Chiprut.

But the number one thing all the designers we spoke with suggested was to measure, measure, and measure again before you purchase curtains.