Style Guide: Bedroom Window Treatments

Southern Living

Window coverings should be both useful and stylish. Here are a few options to consider when selecting a style for your bedroom windows.

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Cornice

Photos by Jean Allsopp

A cornice is a structural piece that is similar to a valance. A cornice is a decorative way to hide a rolled up shade or blind when it’s not in use.

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Drapery Panels

Gary Clark
Drapery panels can add color, character, and privacy to a space. For the added benefit of energy savings, consider using a thermal insulated drapery. If you have a pesky street light that shines in your window, be sure to select a blackout option.

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Shades

Shades are useful on long banks of windows that would be overwhelmed by drapery panels.

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Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters offer privacy while adding structural, architectural lines to a space.

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Long Drapery

Full-length drapery panels that pool on the floor look luxurious and elegant.

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Illusion of Height

Photography Laurey W. Glenn / Styling Leigh Anne Montgomery

To create the illusion of a larger room, hang your drapery rod just below the ceiling rather than right above the window frame. A higher rod draws the eye up and allows more light to come in. If the ready-made curtains you love aren’t long enough, add a simple band of fabric in your accent color for a custom look that costs a lot less than custom made curtains.

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Mixed Styles

Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett

Mix styles of window treatments in the same room. Tie it all together by using the same fabric. Here, long straight panels and valances frame the large windows while operable roman shades cover the doors.

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Whimsical Accents

Photos by Jean Allsopp
Use simple window treatments and add character with distinctive rods and tie-backs.
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