Perfect Window Dressings

Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at fabric ILIV, answers all our questions regarding the tricky business of window dressing

What do I need to consider when choosing fabric for curtains?

For a subtle look, pick a fabric for your curtains that is slightly lighter or darker than your wall tone. If you prefer a contrasting colour, choose an accent colour from in the room, drawing a shade from a cushion or throw for example. 

What about linings?

When selecting the colour of your curtains it is essential to factor in the impact of the lining. Blackout lining enhances the solidity of block colours, providing a rich and intense appearance by blocking out external light. This results in a visually striking and vibrant effect. Sheer linings create a softer and less pronounced look, allowing gentle light diffusion and a more delicate ambiance. The choice between these linings influences the mood and aesthetics of the space, offering either a bold and dramatic statement or a subtle, airy feel.

What is the proper height to hang curtains?

This is very much dependent on the overall look you want to achieve but in the majority of cases, the fabric should always fall to or ‘kiss’ the floor. For a romantic or traditional look you could consider drapes that puddle a couple of inches on the floor. However, you do need to consider the potential of them getting a little grubby at the bottom. Most importantly, avoid your curtains stopping a couple of inches above the floor. Not only does it look like you’ve got the measurements wrong, but it can also make the ceilings look lower.

What fullness of fabric will you need for eyelet (grommet) curtains?

Curtain fullness is the amount of fabric that is used to cover the width of your curtain track or pole. How much flat fabric you have covering your curtain track will determine how much fullness or pleats you have when it is gathered up. For eyelet curtains, we recommend doubling the width of the track to give you 2x fullness. To do this you measure the approximate window width, then double this figure to determine the total curtain width you need for your window. For really full curtains you can triple the width.

What about temperature control?

Good quality, lined curtains are worth the investment – they 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 in Winter but also cooler in Summer, by totally blocking out unwanted light and sunshine. This has the added benefit that any heating/cooling systems will work more efficiently too. Alternatively, for those who want to let some of the Summer light in, sheer or voiles are a good option as they still give shade and protection from the heat of the sun, by diffusing the strength of the rays.

What's best for a bedroom?

For a bedroom, a comfortable, cosy and inviting feel is usually desired and full-length curtains are great for this. 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 and hotel-room chic. For smaller bedrooms 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. Of course with both options, there are a huge array of beautiful fabrics on offer which can really make an impact in your room. Blackout fabrics may also be considered for either style, and are a brilliant solution for troubled sleepers.