Is it curtains for curtains? Well maybe not, but that elaborate, expensive and formal look has been shred to pieces. And I for one, am not unhappy to see it go.
A more relaxed, contemporary approach has gained memento. Curtains used to be a major investment, and although they can still be costly, they are more affordable then there yesteryear companion. Gone are the days of heavily gathered, lined and interlined curtains. They've been replaced with sheers, light satin, silks even woven material.
Imagine spending a great deal of money on curtains, how easy would it be for you to change them out? Not so easy! But with today's more affordable curtains, you can easily change them out when you're redecorating a room.
Of course there is still some consideration to bear in mind when purchasing curtains. Does the room have a contemporary look, tradition, country, transitionally? These are important elements to consider. Then there is the hardware. Metal and wood are the most popular choices. Traverse rod, one time purely functional, have a more decorative feature, with different brushed finishes in a wide range of metal tones. With so many choices out here, you are only bound by your creativity.
I love the new look of curtains today! Is it curtains for curtains? I don't think so, but I do like the many easy affordable options that are now available.
Hi Carmela - In our home we have shades on the windows on the west side of our TV room to cut down on glare, and blinds on the bedroom windows, softened by sheers. All of the other windows (kitchen, dining room, living room family room) have no window coverings at all, and we love the open feeling of being able to see the trees and other outside greenery from inside. And the rooms are brighter too. But I don't think we will ever eliminate curtains. They do really soften the look of rooms.
I've never been a fan of heavy draperies, and I agree it is easier to change the look when the cost is not prohibitive.
Hi Susan, I agree. Curtains are here to stay but there are times when no window coverings is the best solutions!
Norma, neither have I. Thank goodness that's changing!!
It's nice to see the lighter treatment for windows is even happening in the North East. It is certainly appropriate for the Southwest. When selling a property, the more light you can let in all the better.
Barb, I would imagine that it would be popular in the southeast. I am thrilled that it's popular here as well!!
Heavy drapes....heavy/dark look. A lighter/brighter treatment and it lightens the room and everyones outlook. Not to mention showing off gorgeous windows!!
GREAT topic for discussion!!
Carmela,
I agree with Kathy this is a great topic for discussion! I have never liked the heavy window treatment look. That look really takes over the whole room. I too am for the more simple look... although I believe that curtains do soften the look of the room, just not the heavy curtains.
I must say I have never been a fan of heavy, overpowering drapery treatments. Clean, simple lines that let the sun shine in seem much more classic and generally endure the test of time without getting dated.
I do not like heavy draperies. It doesn't matter the size of the room. The light fluffy grandma shears make me shutter.
I love the inexpensive decorator ones that can easily and inexpensively change out.
KATHY, Thank goodness that style is pretty much outdated!!!
Linda, I never like them either. i always felt as if i was in a funeral pallor, very depressing.
Sandi, can you imagine how costly it would be to update the look each and every time!
Virginia, Today ready made curtains are less expensive allowing you to update the look whenever you want.
Hi Carmela, Just last week we staged a home with old (maybe 30 years old) curtains. They were really blocking a lot of natural light and were dirty! We removed them, hung fresher window panels and new sheers and the transformation was dramatic. Sometimes clients are hesitant to remove older draperies, but I think if they are 10 plus years old, it's time for un update.
Diana, It's amazing what curtains can bring to a room.
I'm all for the lighter window treatments. I see a lot of homes with the floral drapes and matching valances and they just look dated. Period. And often times the seller won't take them down because they were expensive and they think the new buyers can do what they want. But the reality is heavy curtains and drapes make for a dated room. Panels and sheers are a much better option to soften windows.
Judy, well said, I couldn't agree with you more!
So after reading all the comments, I do agree... it IS curtains for curtains. Very cute and catchy title ;)
Thanks Lori.