Layering window treatments has become a popular decorating trend, and it’s easy to see why! Layered curtains and other window treatments allow you to mix and match patterns and materials to create a custom look for a home.
In addition, layered window treatment styles are great for those who want to add more texture and depth to their space. This option is also great to provide flexibility in light control, with the option to pair blackout and light filtering materials.
There are many different layering options, which make customization nearly limitless! To give you some ideas and inspiration, we’re sharing some examples of how to layer curtains and window treatments to create a stylish new look in your home.
Layering Draperies and Sheers
Layering opaque drapery with sheer drapery is a classic look that allows soft light in during the day and provides more privacy at night. This is one of the most commonly used window treatment layering styles because there are so many different textures and fabrics to choose from to create your desired look and feel.
If you’re looking to create a curtain with sheers style for your home, The Shade Store offers eight custom drapery styles in 650+ materials, providing endless options to mix and layer draperies and sheers. Find your perfect pairing of layered curtains today.
Curtains Over Blinds
Curtains over blinds (or drapes over blinds) is a popular layered window treatment style that provides clean lines and light control. This pairing is easy to execute and offers thousands of pairing options for homeowners to choose from. One important note about choosing individual treatments: when choosing a layer of curtains and blinds, choose the blinds first, as they will provide the majority of the light blocking features. Then you can choose a curtain to complement your blinds.
Unlike layering draperies and sheers, when pairing curtains with blinds, you only need one drapery rod, as blinds are mounted at the window frame.
The Shade Store offers three different blind styles in 400+ materials, to give you the flexibility to mix and match materials to each curtain style. You can opt for something classic, like white or solid color blinds, or use curtains over wood blinds to integrate natural and neutral tones. If you need supreme light filtering but don’t want to sacrifice aesthetic, you can also choose blackout curtains over blinds.
Pairing Curtains with a Valance or Cornice
Another great layered window treatment option is to pair your curtains with a valance or cornice. Combining curtains with a valance is a simple way to add depth to a room while also concealing any hardware from the existing window treatments. A cornice can also block light from the top of your window treatments, preventing any light seepage into the room.
If you’re not familiar with valances, you don’t have to look far to find excellent choices. The Shade Store has three different valance styles featuring 550+ materials. You can find the perfect option to pair with your curtains.
Hanging Curtains Over Shades
Layering curtains and shades together can add strong patterns and textures to the room, as these two window treatments usually have the most material options to play with. While many different styles of shades work perfectly for this pairing, Roman Shades have unique pleat and stacking designs to add depth and texture.
If you are interested in layered curtain ideas and want to mock up some designs for curtains over shades, The Shade Store has six custom shade styles available in 1,300+ materials, to give you the opportunity to create a truly customized look for your space.
Order Free Swatches Get Expert Design Advice Today
While there are a number of layered curtains and window treatment pairing options to consider, it can be hard to envision these styles in your home. If you need some assistance, you can order free swatches to mix and match different materials to find the best layered look for you.
For more hands-on design insight on how to mix blinds and curtains, visit one of The Shade Store’s 75+ locations nationwide or email design@theshadestore.com to speak to a design consultant about the best window treatments for your space.