Yes, There Really is a Difference Between Drapes and Curtains
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There are a few words in the design lexicon that always seem to stump people. Whether it’s the age-old debate between sofa and couch (they are not the same!) or, in this case, drapes and curtains, it can be hard to nail down exactly what the difference is and why it (may or may not) matter. Have no fear, I’m here to help. As a design editor, I deal with these terms regularly. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about drapes and curtains, what the real difference is, where blinds fit into the equation, which style may work best for your home, and all the things you need to consider before purchasing.
Drapes vs. Curtains: What’s the Difference?
The terms “drapes” and “curtains” are very often used interchangeably when referring to fabric window treatments, but in reality, they are distinctly different—and it all comes down to formality and construction.
Drapes are often made-to-measure for specific windows and crafted from higher-end designer-exclusive fabrics, also known as “to the trade” fabrics. These window coverings are typically thicker—think lush velvet or thick woven cottons—and lined for enhanced light-blocking capabilities. Drapes are almost always more formal than curtains.
Curtains are breezier—especially transparent curtains—as they aren’t typically lined in the same manner as drapes. The fabrics used in their construction are also generally not as heavy-duty as those found in drapes. While curtains can be made-to-order, they are often prefabricated in standard lengths and widths. For example, you can buy curtains at popular retailers (Anthropologie, Target, etc.), but not drapes—though sometimes those retailers include “drapes” in their category headers as a way to make sure consumers searching for any type of window treatment online are seeing their pieces. (As if it wasn’t confusing enough!)
What About Blinds or Shades?
You may ask yourself: Do blinds fit into all of this? Yes, they do! Before we get into that, though, let’s quickly address the difference between blinds and shades. Blinds are comprised of single pieces of material (like strips of wood) strung together that tilt to block out light. Shades, on the other hand, are typically made of one piece of material (either yardage of fabric or natural materials tightly woven together into a single piece) that you can raise or lower as desired.
Blinds and shades both look great on their own, but they can also be used for layering. You can technically pair both with drapes and curtains, but designers often prefer bamboo or woven wood shades for added visual texture and contrast. (I have these woven wood shades in my home and absolutely adore them. They are customizable and ship via Amazon!) Blinds and shutters, another popular louvered light-blocker that are usually wood, typically nestle neatly within the window frame, so they shouldn’t cause an issue for your fabric window coverings (provided you have deep enough window casing). Shades can also nestle within the window, but can also hang outside and have a more pronounced face.
Are Curtains or Drapes Better for My Home?
Like many design rules, choosing the best window treatments for your room comes down to personal preference. If you’re torn between the two and cost is not a concern (we’ll get more into costs below), the best rule of thumb is to weigh these two factors: style and light filtration. Drapes are more refined due to the structured look provided by the thicker, heavier fabrics used to make them. (Some designers even add drapery weights to maintain a prim and proper appearance.) Drapes also typically filter more light because of their heavier construction. If you live in a classic Colonial-style home or one filled with more traditional elements, opt for drapes. Curtains, on the other hand, are lighter and breezier, making them a more popular choice for the casual living found in farmhouses and cottages.
Important Things to Consider
Cost
Regardless of what style you choose, window treatments can be found at various price points. In general, curtains are typically less expensive than drapes because of the type and amount of fabric used. Drapes may also feature additional design details that increase their cost, such as pleating, custom header types (the way the curtain looks and functions at the top), or specialized trims.
Brands like Pepper Home and Everhem have revolutionized the window treatment game, offering custom curtains with stylish fabric options at direct-to-consumer prices. If you love the more formal look of drapes but they aren’t in your budget, check out local or online estate sales for vintage drapery panels that might work in your home. Just keep your window measurements handy! Or, you can even buy premade curtains, then add your own DIY trim or embellishment.
Light Filtration
As we’ve mentioned, drapes are typically better at darkening a room than curtains. Drapes will provide more light filtration, so if that’s a priority for you, go for drapes or budget-friendly blackout curtains. If you prefer some light peeking through, opt for curtains. And, remember, you can always pair your curtains with a shade for extra darkness. They even make blackout shades that look a lot better than those vinyl roller shades of the past.
Placement
Designers might say that certain rooms benefit from certain types of window treatments, but in reality it’s up to you to decide what works within your budget and your style preference. Bedrooms benefit from the darkness of drapes but may feel heavy or stuffy if the rest of your furnishings are more casual or classically farmhouse. Formal spaces, such as living and dining rooms, are perfect for drapes. Communal gathering areas, like the kitchen or family room, are great for curtains. And, rooms where you want even more light but still desire the layered look window coverings give—think powder or laundry rooms—are the perfect place for transparent or café curtains.
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