How to Choose the Perfect Curtains for Any Window

You’ve just upgraded your home’s windows to let in more light, conserve energy and add to your home’s curb appeal. Congratulations! But the work’s not over – now it’s time to make a decision about window treatments.

With so many options to choose from, you might feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve written this guide on how to choose the perfect curtains for any window. Consider the following points and you’ll have it figured out in no time:

Function is of utmost importance

Sure, you want your curtains to be beautiful and complement your home’s décor. But first and foremost, you must decide how you will use your treatments. For example, “If you want treatments that provide privacy or total darkness, you need lined curtains,” advises RealSimple.com. On the other hand, if you’re happy with some light coming through, unlined curtains are your best bet.

Pay attention to fabric

Lana Lawrence, vice president of Anthony Lawrence-Belfair curtain fabricators, recommends testing out fabrics by holding them up to a window. "Pleat it like an accordion at the top and let it drape," she told Elle Decor. "If it starts to flare like a piece of crinoline, then it's not going to fall nicely on the window." Be sure to work with a sample of at least 2 yards in order to get an accurate assessment.

Choose a style that works

It’s important to find patterns and colors that “either complement those already in your room, or accent them,” suggests Pier 1. Don’t choose your window treatments based solely upon what’s popular or trending. Otherwise, you could end up with curtains that don’t match your home’s style whatsoever!

What other tips do you have for choosing the perfect curtains? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook, Twitter or Google+.

Our Favorite Summer Window Treatments

Summer is the perfect time to redo your window treatments. Not only is it fun to add a splash of summer to your décor, but some curtains and drapes are designed to let light in without all the heat. After all, your windows are meant to be used, not covered up. Here are a few of our favorite summer window treatments:

White Sheer Curtains

photo credit: tauress via photopin cc

The great thing about the color white is that it reflects light. White sheer curtains help keep heat out of your house by doing just that – reflecting light and heat. The thin material also lets a good amount of natural light in, so you don’t have to turn heat-producing lamps on during the day.

Bamboo Blinds

photo credit: tomooka via photopin cc

There’s something about bamboo that just screams summer! Bamboo blinds have become increasingly popular, especially for use in rooms that get a lot of sunlight.  That’s because they let some light in while blocking up to 65 percent of heat.

Roman Shades

photo credit: PoshSurfside.com via photopin cc

Roman shades are less fussy than curtains and warmer looking than blinds. More importantly, they provide privacy as well as protection from the sun. Roman shades are fabric window covering panels that are lined for energy-efficiency. They can be raised and lowered to let in as little or as much light as you’d like.

There are lots of window treatments that will help keep your home cooler this summer. We love these for their efficiency and style! Do you change up your windows’ look for summer? Share your thoughts at our Facebook page!