Curtains are drapes and drapes are curtains, right? Well, not quite. Both are sections of fabric that hang from rods and cover windows, but not in the same fashion. You’d be forgiven for thinking that the two words are interchangeable and somewhat generic. It’s true that both are window coverings, but one has a purely decorative function while the other has a practical function. It is possible to have one without the other, but a well-dressed home really should have both on the major windows. Here’s a look at drapes vs curtains and why it’s important to understand the difference.
The Definition of a Drape
Drapes are considered a formal window covering due to the types of fabrics they’re made from and the amount of construction used in their creation. They’re also heavy and tiebacks are frequently used to hold the drapes away from the window to create a visual entryway, if you will. Drapes are usually longer than the curtains to help define the difference between the two. And while many types of drapes can be drawn across the windows to close them off from the outside, you may prefer drapes that are narrow and won’t extend across the window but do give balance to the curtains.
Defining a Curtain
Curtains are made from lighter materials and have less construction than a drape. Just about any kind of fabric can be used for a curtain as long as it can fold or pleat with ease. People typically pick materials that are easily washed by hand or in the washing machine on the gentle cycle. Curtains have the purpose of covering up a window and block out light, protect privacy, and add color to a room. They’re used anywhere and everywhere someone wants to have the option to preserve privacy or keep the outside world from coming in.
Should You Have Drapes or Curtains?
There’s no one answer to this so much as it depends on your intended use of the room and what kind of visual effect you want to achieve. Curtains by themselves can be formal or informal, but drapes are almost always formal. You might want to use the combination of drapes and curtains in a room and take advantage of the extra thermal protection offered by drapes at night while enjoying the light that comes through the curtains by day. And sometimes, drapes aren’t necessary because thermal curtains can do the work on their own. Or, if you want to maintain a formal appearance in certain rooms and a casual look in others, try using the combo in some places and not in others.
Not Sure What’s Best for Your Windows? Talk to Us at the Curtain Shop
We at The Curtain Shop can help you figure out what looks best for your room and your needs. Our design experts are ready to talk to you over the phone or in-person to discuss the benefits of drapes and curtains. Our experts will also help you pick the right fabrics and designs for your home. Contact us by phone at 1-866-886-3632 or browse our extensive collection online. Let us find the ultimate accouterments for your windows today!
