When it comes to dressing our windows, there's a lot to think about. From the basics of whether you prefer blinds or curtains, to the finer details such as linings, headings and fabric choices, there's a lot to consider and each one brings its own benefits and drawbacks. Here to help demystify the process is Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV, offering essential advice from both a practical and style point of view.

Blinds - Andante Menta from £24.00 per metre, Curtains - Mastro Menta from £27.00 per metre

When deciding on window dressings, one of the first decisions is whether to have curtains or blinds. Debbie advises, "If you have the room either side of your window, then full-length curtains will create a cosy, comfortable and inviting feel. Not only do they provide complete privacy, choosing a quality thick fabric will also provide an extra layer of insulation, as well as creating a sense of luxury. For more compact rooms and windows, roman blinds are a good option as they take up less space and can be more cost-effective, as they use less fabric. They are also flexible, allowing varying amounts of light into the room."

From Top: Curtains - Tutti Quartz & Tutti Rosequartz from £27.00 per metre, Curtains - Libretto Lunar from £29.00 per metre, Blind - Andante Menta from £24.00 per metre.

If opting for curtains, Debbie advises that paying for quality is well worth the investment; "Good quality, lined curtains are suitable all year-round, offering temperature control and privacy. Black out and thermal linings are great for bedroom curtains as they help to keep the room warm, increase energy efficiency and block out unwanted light."

Curtains - Stratford Sweetpea from £30.00 per metre

In terms of the overall look you wish to achieve, curtains can be cleverly used to create a sense of space. "Hanging panels higher than the window will add to the sense of height in a room." explains Debbie. She continues, "Measure from the top of the window (plus the added inches of height where the curtains will hang from) to the floor. For a more traditional look, try having the curtain slightly puddled on the floor by adding another two or three inches to your length. For those who prefer a contemporary look, having the panel fall flush with the floor is a popular option."

Curtains - Danby Smoke from £27.00 per metre

When it comes to thinking about curtain headings, this is often a matter of personal taste and researching images of the various tape options on websites such as Pinterest is a great starting point. "The easiest curtains to hang are eyelets, (shown below left) as it’s as simple as hanging them on a pole. Slightly more complicated, but increasingly popular, are the wave-header (shown bottom right). Wave header curtains create wave like folds of fabric that appear to float below the track or pole" says Debbie.

From Top: Eyelet Curtains Libretto Lunar from £29.00 per metre. Triple Pinch Pleat Curtains Libretto Clay from £29.00 per metre, Pencil Pleat Curtains Mastro Menta from £27.00 per metre, Wave Header Curtains Tutti Rosequartz from £27.00 per metre.

If you are restricted on space or have a radiator under your window, then Roller or Roman Blinds are a popular choice. Although significantly more fabric is required for a Roman blind, it will give a more sophisticated look, making it a favoured option for Living Rooms and Bedrooms.

Blinds - Dolce Bamboo from £29.00 per metre

"Of course with both options, there are a huge array of beautiful fabrics on offer which can really make an impact in your room," comments Debbie. ILIV's stunning collection of fabrics are perfect for curtains or blinds and with a huge choice of patterns, colours and plain styles available, there really is something for everyone.

Clockwise from Top Left: Blind - Observatory Seaspray from £25.00 per metre. Curtains - Botanical Studies Rosella from £47.00 per metre, Curtains - Summerby Riviera from £22.00 per metre, Blind - Frond Fennel from £67.00 per metre.

For further images, fabric samples or expert advice from ILIV please contact Gemma Wilson at Gemma@baytreepr.com