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Neutral Curtains: Color Tones & How to Choose
Neutral curtains are a timeless and versatile choice for any room. Whether youāre completely redesigning a room or simply refreshing your window treatments, they offer a wide range of whites, ivories, creams, beiges, greys and textured fabrics to suit your style.
To find the right color and texture of neutral curtains for your space, start by understanding neutral curtain colors and undertones. Then consider fabric weight, light control and the atmosphere you want to create before narrowing your options.
Cover Photo: Outer Layer: Ripple Fold Drapery, Heathered Linen in Ivory and Inner Layer: Waterfall Woven Wood Shades, Grassweave in Snow, design by Purs Dixon for the 2023 Kips Bay Dallas Showhouse, photography by John Bessler
What Are Neutral Colors for Curtains?
Neutral color curtains typically include shades like white, beige, grey and black. These tones range significantly in terms of color temperature, from cool to warm. To find the right neutral tone for your space, itās important to understand color temperature and how it affects the overall aesthetic of your room.
Warm vs. Cool Neutral Curtains
Color temperature falls into two main categories: cool tones and warm tones. In neutral colors, since they donāt have an overt color, itās the undertones that are either cool or warm.
warm neutral Curtains
Warm neutrals are those with undertones of red, orange and yellow, which evoke a sense of coziness and energy. This invigorating effect is ideal for socializing rooms like living rooms and dining rooms, as the color can create a vibrant atmosphere that encourages conversation.
cool neutral Curtains
Cool neutrals have undertones of blue, green and purple and typically evoke a sense of serenity and relaxation. These colors are calming and peaceful, making them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms and other rooms where you enjoy tranquil solitude.
What Is the Best Neutral Curtain Color?
The best neutral color curtains will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, your existing dƩcor and the feeling you want to create. Warm, creamy neutrals like ivory, beige and tan remain popular because they make a room feel peaceful and comfortable, while cooler whites and greys create a crisp, tailored look.
How to Choose the Best Neutral Curtain Color
The best neutral curtain color depends on your wall color, furniture, natural light and the mood you want to create. White curtains feel crisp and bright, while ivory and cream curtains create a softer, warmer look. Beige and tan curtains are versatile choices for living rooms with wood tones or layered neutrals, while grey curtains suit cooler, more modern spaces. For a dramatic neutral, black or charcoal curtains can add contrast without introducing a bold color.
| Neutral Curtain Color | Best For | Design Effect |
|---|---|---|
| White | Bright, clean, modern rooms | Crisp, airy and fresh |
| Ivory or Cream | Warm rooms, soft white walls, traditional or transitional spaces | Softer and warmer than white |
| Beige or Tan | Living rooms, layered neutrals and wood furniture | Warm, grounded and versatile |
| Grey | Cool-toned rooms and modern interiors | Calm and tailored |
| Black or Charcoal | High-contrast or dramatic rooms | Bold and architectural |
Neutral Curtain Ideas by Room
Now that you know how color tone, fabric and light control affect the look of your custom drapery, explore a few room-focused ideas to help visualize the right direction for your own space.
Neutral Curtains for Bedrooms: A Calm, Private Retreat
Neutral curtains for bedrooms can help create a calm, comfortable bedroom with the right balance of softness, privacy and light control. Warm ivory, cream, oatmeal and soft grey tones are ideal curtain colors for a bedroom because they create a soothing backdrop without overwhelming the space. For more flexibility, layer sheers with blackout-lined drapery, or choose neutral bedroom curtains with blackout lining to help darken the room for sleep.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery and Flat Roman Shades, Studio McGee Gypsum Stripe in Canvas Neutral Curtains for Living Rooms: A Layered Style Idea
Neutral curtains for living rooms can create a soft, inviting look while adding depth and texture to the space. In this layered design, light Ripple Fold Drapery frames the windows while Woven Wood Shades add natural warmth and dimension. Pairing neutral drapery with textured shades is a simple way to keep the room calm, cohesive and comfortable while still giving the windows a more finished look.
Pictured: Ripple Fold Drapery, Holland & Sherry Andes in Castle Wall with Rye Woven Wood Shades in Cove Ash Neutral Dining Room Curtains: Add Polish with Refined Materials & Fabrics
Neutral dining room curtains can bring a polished look to the space while keeping the overall design calm and grounded. For a refined feel, consider materials such as silk, wool, tailored pleats or designer patterns. Patterned curtains in beige, sand, graphite and ivory tones add depth and elegance to your dining room without moving away from a neutral palette.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery, Victoria Hagan Lily in Buff, design by Victoria Hagan
Fabric Options & Ideas for Neutral Curtains
Choosing neutral curtains is not just about color. Fabric texture and weight also affect the final look, light control and privacy. Explore some of the most popular fabric types, all of which come in neutral colors ranging from warm to cool so you can find the right fit.
| Fabric Type | Best For | Light / Privacy Effect | Neutral Look |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheers | Soft daylight and layering | Light filtering and semi-private | Airy and relaxed |
| Linen | Living rooms, bedrooms and casual elegance | Light filtering or lined for more privacy | Textured and natural |
| Wool & Blends | Cozy rooms, insulation and richer texture | Better privacy and warmth, especially with lining | Soft and substantial |
| Silk | Formal rooms and elevated spaces | Elegant light reflection, lining recommended | Refined and polished |
| Patterns | Visual interest in neutral palettes | Depends on fabric and lining | Subtle or statement-making |
Sheer Fabric Curtains
Sheers are lightweight fabric window coverings made from a variety of materials that beautifully soften light while providing some privacy. They range in opacity from sheer to semi-sheer. Since they allow so much light through, there are many bright neutral colors to choose from.
Why choose sheers:
- Great for diffusing light
- Ideal for layering with heavier drapes
- Adds a soft, airy feel to the room
Explore a selection of neutral sheers to start your search for the right fabric:
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basket Sheer,
Winter
A linen-like fabric without the characteristic crinkles in a bright white.
Color temperature: Cool
Linen Sheers,
Oatmeal
A delicate 100% linen weave with subtle texture in a soft warm beige.
Color temperature: Warm
Holland & Sherry Wool Challis, Carbone
100% natural wool with an elegant look and soft touch in a warm rich grey.
Color temperature: Warm
Neutral Sheers Inspiration
See a couple examples of sheer neutral color curtains to get a sense of whether this look is right for your space.
Embrace Soft, Warm White Sheers for a Nursery
Capture a soft, sweet aesthetic with warm white neutral color curtain sheers in your nursery room. Embroidered drapery will blend in with your off-white walls while providing just a touch of visual interest with their intricate design. Add in wood and woven tones in your decor for added texture and warmth to round out your design.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery with Madison Hardware in Bronze, design by Erin Fetherston Go Cool, Bright & Airy in a Coastal Bedroom
Use bright, off-white neutral curtains in a coastal-themed bedroom to contrast other coastal colors like sky blue and sandy tans. A sheer fabric like Sankaty Stripe in Moon softens light in your room while providing a touch of visual movement with the subtle horizontal striped design.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery, Victoria Hagan Sankaty Stripe in Moon with Wrought Iron Hardware in Black, design by Victoria Hagan, photography by William Waldron GET THE LOOK
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more light, airy sheer fabrics for your neutral curtains.
Linen Fabric Curtains
A natural fiber made from the flax plant, linen is known for its strength and luxurious feel. 100% linen also features character-rich crinkles created when it is exposed to moisture in the air for a casually elegant look. Linen fabrics for neutral curtains include pure linen as well as linen blends for added durability and fewer crinkles.
Why choose linen:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Provides a relaxed and casual look
- Excellent for creating a light and breezy atmosphere
Explore a selection of linen for neutral color curtains to start your search for the right fabric:
linen,
Ecru
Soft and textured, Linen is a beautiful fabric thatās durable, affordable and versatile in a light, sandstone color.
Color temperature: Warm
luxe linen,
Flax
A heavyweight 100% linen fabric with a beautiful woven texture and soft touch in a rich, warm golden hue.
Color temperature: Warm
heathered linen, Granite
With a soft touch and subtle heathered coloring this linen blend delivers rich texture in a warm stone grey.
Color temperature: Warm
shoreline,
frost
A character-rich uneven weave made with contrasting threads for a rustic texture in a bright, cool off-white color.
Color temperature: Cool
Neutral Linen Inspiration
See a couple examples of neutral color curtains made of linen to get ideas for your own space.
Create Balance Between Opulence & Simplicity
Use neutral curtains, such as Tailored Pleat Drapery made of Luxe Linen in Oyster, in a lavish room with rich colors and ornamentation to balance the space with their simplicity. The tall panels of warm off-white fabric help break up with blue patterned wallpaper while softening light through the large arched windows over glass doors. For a touch of ornamentation to tie into tother elegant details of the space, add decorative trim to your drapery along the leading edge.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery, Luxe Linen in Oyster with C.O.T. Samuel & Sons trim, Bali Cotton Knotted Tassle Fringe in Cream and Cabana Ribbed Border in Seaglass, and Steel Hardware in Antique Bronze, design by Amanda Lindroth for the 2023 Kips Bay Palm Beach Showhouse, photography by John Bessler GET THE LOOKCapture Coziness in Your Bedroom
Neutral curtains in a warm white color with a soft, inviting touch, like Claude Stripe in Alabaster, create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere in a bedroom. The unique boucle stripe of these linen-blend curtains adds a luxurious texture that further warms the space. Add blackout lining for an even plusher look and greater privacy and light control ā including a room darkening effect ideal for sleep.
Pictured: Ripple Fold Drapery, Nate Berkus, Claude Stripe in Alabaster, design by Nate Berkus GET THE LOOK
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more character-rich linen fabrics for your neutral curtains.
Wools & Wool Blend Curtains
Wool is a natural fabric prized for centuries for its luxurious softness and reliable durability. Like linen, 100% wool has characteristics, like stretching over time, that give it natural charm. Wool fabrics for neutral curtains include pure wool as well as wool blends for added durability and less stretching.
Why choose wool:
- Provides a sense of warmth and coziness
- Excellent for sound and temperature insulation, especially when paired with lining
- Ideal for colder climates
Explore a selection of wool fabrics for neutral color curtains to start your search for the right look:
wool Blend,
Fleece
A beautifully soft, luxurious wool blend with a subtle texture, available in a cool textured grey.
Color temperature: Cool
Velvet,
Silver
Plush and luxurious with a subtle horizontal texture, Velvet offers a luxe look in a cool silvery grey.
Color temperature: Cool
Holland & Sherry Andes, Sand
Made of 100% natural wool, this sumptuous warm beige weave has a subtle luster that elevates the space.
Color temperature: Warm
Holland & Sherry Wool Flannel, Caramel
This 100% natural wool in a rich golden brown has a brushed finish that offers a sense of comfort.
Color temperature: Warm
Neutral Wool Inspiration
See a couple examples of neutral color curtains made of wool and wool blends to get ideas for your own space.
Opt for Casual Elegance in a Study
Choose neutral curtains in a bright, off-white color and lush fabric, like Wool Blend in Snow, to give your study a casual, approachable elegance. Be sure to also choose a pleat style that can be casual or elegant: Inverted Pleat Drapery has crisp, flat folds that can look formal when extended and casual when stacked.
Pictured: Inverted Pleat Drapery, Wool Blend in Snow, design by Jeremiah Brent for the 2024 Kips Bay New York Showhouse, photography by John Bessler GET THE LOOKGo for Two-Tone Neutral Curtains in a Contemporary Living Room
In a contemporary living room with lots of clean lines and simple shapes, add another linear aspect with two-tone neutral curtains. Adding a bottom border to your drape panels creates subtle design dimension without being overwhelming. Be sure to choose two colors that are complementary and feature the same warm or cool undertones, like Andes in Castle Wall and Rye. The soft 100% wool fabric also softens the space with its lush look thatās inviting to the touch while contrasting the texture of the woven wood shades.
Pictured: Outer Layer: Ripple Fold Drapery, Holland & Sherry Andes in Castle Wall and Rye as a bottom border and Inner Layer: Waterfall Woven Wood Shades, Artisan Weaves Cove in Ash GET THE LOOK
Drapery: Holland & Sherry Andes, Rye >
Woven Wood Shade: Artisan Weaves Cove, Ash >
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more rich wool fabrics for your neutral curtains.
Silk Curtains
Silk is a protein fiber produced by silkworms, highly coveted for centuries for its beauty and durability. Depending on how silk is produced, it can vary in texture, weight and appearance.
Why choose silk:
- Beautifully reflects light
- Offers a smooth, glossy finish
- Delivers an elevated aesthetic ideal for formal settings
Explore a selection of silks for neutral color curtains to start your search for the right look:
Silk Dupioni, White
A fine silk fabric with a lustrous sheen and subtle texture in a bright, glossy white.
Color temperature: Cool
Matka Silk, Ivory
Artfully woven, this silk has a linen-like texture with a silken sheen in a warm, creamy ivory.
Color temperature: Warm
Raw Silk, Grey
Made from untreated silk, Raw Silk features lots of natural texture in a cool stormy grey.
Color temperature: Cool
Silk Dupioni, Moonglow
A fine silk fabric with a lustrous sheen and subtle texture in a warm, glowing beige.
Color temperature: Warm
Neutral Silk Inspiration
See a couple examples of neutral color curtains made of silk to get ideas for your own space.
Add a Sense of Luxury to a Walk-In Closet
Give your walk-in closet a sense of elegance and luxury with silk curtains in a warm, off-white tone like Silk Dupioni in Ivory which features a lustrous sheen. Create design dimension and add a layer of privacy and light control with a Flat Roman Shade made of Basket Sheer in Winter.
Pictured: Pinch Pleat Drapery, Silk Dupioni in Ivory, and Inner Layer: Flat Roman Shade, Basket Sheer in Winter, design by Clive Lonstein for the 2023 Kips Bay New York Showhouse, photography by John Bessler GET THE LOOKCreate an Opulent Backdrop for Dining
Use richly hued neutral color curtains made of lustrous silk, like Raw Silk in Graphite, for an opulent backdrop in your dining room. Raw Silk features beautiful, natural texture thanks to the use of unprocessed silk and the Graphite color helps anchor your space with its rich hue. Layer your dark silk drapery with a light, airy sheer like Luxe Sheer Linen in Natural to balance the color of the space. Be sure mix light and dark elements in your dƩcor and furniture as well to round out your design.
Pictured: Outer Layer: Ripple Fold Drapery, Raw Silk in Graphite and Inner Layer: Ripple Fold Drapery, Luxe Sheer Linen in Natural, design by Everick Brown, photography by John Bessler GET THE LOOK
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more elegant silks for your neutral curtains.
Neutral Patterned Curtains
Patterns are made from a variety of materials and feature various designs and motifs, even in neutral tones. Choosing patterned neutral curtains gives your interior design greater movement and dimension.
Why choose neutral patterns:
- Adds visual interest and design dimension
- Can be subtle or bold, depending on the design
- Complements various decor styles
Explore a selection of neutral patterns to start your search for the right look:
Windsor Stripe, Noir
A black-and-white, classic pinstripe reminiscent of menswear and made of a light-filtering linen blend.
Color temperature: Cool
Baldwin, Stone
A small-scale chevron pattern in a warm stoney grey adds subtle visual interest and movement to your window.
Color temperature: Warm
linen Dot, Ebony
With a whimsical dot pattern made of shimmering threads, Linen Dot adds timeless charm to your window.
Color temperature: Cool
Neutral Pattern Inspiration
See a couple examples of neutral color curtains with various patterns to get ideas for your own space.
Add Visual Interest to an Inviting, Greyscale Bedroom
For a bedroom with a lot of solid neutrals, add visual depth and dimension with neutral curtains with a plaid pattern. Plaid is also an inviting pattern often made of wool or a wool blend fabric that adds a sense of warmth to your room. Layer your curtains with Flat Roman Shades made of textured Dakota in White for an additional layer of design dimension.
Pictured: Outer Layer: Tailored Pleat Drapery and Inner Layer: Flat Roman Shades, Dakota in White, design by Virginia Toledo for the 2022 Kaleidoscope Showhouse GET THE LOOKBold Black & White Bedroom
Neutral curtains donāt always have to be subtle. Create a bold look for your bedroom with a black and white striped pattern like Shoreham Stripe in Jet. The curves and folds of the drapery break up the linear design of the fabric to soften the overall aesthetic for a balanced, inviting look. Keep the rest of your room light with white and wood tones in your dĆ©cor and furniture. Layer your drapes with a light-filtering Roller Shade for additional light control.
Pictured: Outer Layer: Ripple Fold Drapery and Flat Roman Shade, Shoreham Stripe in Jet and Inner Layer: Roller Shades, Naomi in Glacier GET THE LOOK
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more patterned designs for your neutral curtains.
Designer Neutrals
With unique patterns and textures from interior designers like Victoria Hagan, Nate Berkus, Sheila Bridges and many others, our Designer Collection offers truly inspiring designs. These designs range in material, weight and light filtration so you can find the right combination for your neutral curtains.
Why choose Designer Patterns:
- Offers unique and stylish designs
- Features high-end quality
- Perfect for making a design statement while staying within a neutral palette
Explore a selection of neutral Designer patterns to start your search for the right look:
Victoria Hagan
Vanda,
Mica
Inspired by the vanda orchid, this modern pattern delivers elegant complexity and a subtle grey glow.
Color temperature: Cool
Sheila Bridges
Archer, Cornislk Stripe
Embroidered chevrons make up this modern interpretation of a classic arrow design in a golden beige.
Color temperature: Warm
Neutral Pattern Inspiration
See a couple examples of neutral color curtains with unique Designer patterns to get ideas for your own space.
Capture a Sense of Drama with Neutral Curtains
In a living room with tall windows and high ceilings, emphasize the sense of height in the room with neutral curtains that span from floor to ceiling. Add additional emphasis with a vertical striped pattern like Nate Berkusā Surrey Stripe, which resembles subtle pinstripes in menswear. The warm neutral colors of the drapery also complement the different wood tones in the flooring, furniture and dĆ©cor for a cohesive aesthetic.
Pictured: Pinch Pleat Drapery, Nate Berkus, Surrey Stripe in Morel and Natural, design by Nate Berkus GET THE LOOKAdd a Botanical Element to a Home Office
Botanical patterns in neutral colors like Studio McGeeās Wildvine in Flax add lots of visual texture to your interior design without being overwhelmed. The sandy color of the leafy pattern compliments the warmth of this interior for a unified aesthetic.
Pictured:Ā Ripple Fold Drapery, Studio McGee Collection in Wildvine in FlaxĀ withĀ Madison Hardware in Gold GET THE LOOK
Get More Neutral Looks
Discover even more unique patterns for your neutral curtains.
Tips for Choosing the Right Neutral Color & Fabric
Selecting the perfect neutral curtain involves more than just picking a color. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice for your space:
- Match Your Wall Color ā If youāre not sure what neutral tone best suits your space, look to your wall color and choose a color for your curtains that is one or two shades lighter or darker than your wall. This is best done with neutrally colored walls.
- Consider Your Roomās Atmosphere ā What effect do you want your drapery to have on the room? Should they be calming or invigorating? This will help you determine whether neutral curtains with cool or warm undertones are right for your space.
- Think About Light Control and Privacy ā The level of light control and privacy your curtains provide is dictated mostly by the fabric and lining if you choose to add it. For softened light, choose light-filtering fabric and add privacy lining if needed for greater peace of mind. For a room darkening effect, choose a thick fabric like wool and add blackout lining for the best light blocking and privacy.
Find the Perfect Neutral Tone for Your Drapery
With a better understanding of your options for neutral curtains, youāre ready to narrow down your choices. To more closely compare your favorite options, order free swatches online so you can compare the color and texture yourself in your home. Not sure which ones are your favorites? Start by ordering our Most Popular Swatch Collection which features a wide range of beautiful neutrals in a variety of textures and subtle patterns to kickstart your inspiration.
What are the best neutral colors for curtains?
The best neutral curtain colors include white, ivory, cream, beige, tan, grey and black. Choose warmer neutrals for a soft, cozy look and cooler neutrals for a crisp, modern effect.
Should neutral curtains be lighter or darker than the walls?
Neutral curtains can be either lighter or darker than the walls. Choosing one or two shades lighter or darker creates a layered tone-on-tone look, while stronger contrast adds definition.
Are beige or white curtains better?
White curtains feel crisp, bright and airy, while beige curtains feel warmer and softer. The better choice depends on your wall color, undertones, furniture and the mood you want in the room.
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