by Lindsay Wilcox
Dress up plain windows and add style to every room when you buy drapes for your home. Whether you want sheer drapes to complement a pretty paned window or blackout drapes to keep your bedroom dark while you sleep, the following suggestions will help you find curtains that work for your space. Read on for tips on buying drapes.
Consider the function of your drapes. You probably want window drapes to complement existing decor and cover up curtain rods and hardware, but you'll want to think about other factors before you buy drapes. If you want to create privacy, buy lined drapes made of a dark, heavy fabric, such as brocade or damask, that will close tightly. Lined drapes are also ideal when you want to create a sophisticated look, as these layered window treatments add polish to any window. If your primary purpose in buying drapes is to block light, however, you'll want to buy blackout drapes, which feature a tightly woven backing that blocks most light from entering the window. These window coverings are also called thermal drapes because they help to insulate your home and reduce thermal loss through the window.
Look for drapes that complement the colors in your room. First, consider the color of the walls. If you'll be hanging window drapes in a room with bold accent walls, you'll want to look for patterns and solids that don't clash. Make sure to buy drapes that also balance the textures and colors of your furniture. Sheer drapes are the perfect balance for floral sofas and armchairs, while living room drapes that feature crisp pleats will add elegance to simple wooden chairs and benches. Pleated drapes are also appropriate for traditional decor, especially in classic fabrics such as toile and taffeta.
Choose drapes with a suitable fabric for your window. If your bedroom or living room window receives a lot of direct sunlight, you won't want to hang expensive silk drapes, as they can fade easily. You'll also want to avoid heavy living room drapes made of canvas or brocade if you want to emphasize a delicate window. Hang silk drapes and window treatments made of other expensive fabrics in rooms that don't receive a lot of sunlight; install thermal curtains in bright rooms to prevent heat loss and block unwanted light. If you want to make a small window look larger, consider buying pleated drapes made of linen for a fresh, polished look.
