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It's a dilemma that plagues every homeowner - how long should curtains be? Unless you're talking about a child's room, kitchen, or bathroom (where short, sill-length curtains are best for practical reasons), floor-length curtains are the way to go! (Nothing looks sadder than a beautiful living room with short, shrimpy curtains!)
The curtain length has the ability to transform a room from relaxed to regal. Here's a mini-guide to the three basic lengths for curtains, and how they each affect a room:
Floating: curtains that float ever-so-slightly above the floor (think 1/2" to 1") are the epitome of crisp and tailored chic. This look requires precision measuring and tailoring to get it just right, but the look has preppy polish that fits the room like a well-made suit. Floating curtains make sense if you'll be opening and closing them frequently, as they're off the floor and out of the way.
Breaking: curtains that extend just a bit onto the floor (think 1" to 3") have a relaxed feel that still looks chic. This look is a little more forgiving if your floors are uneven, or if tailoring curtains to the right length isn't in your budget. Curtains with a slight break are also the most popular look right now, with a look that's effortlessly stylish.
Pooling: bring on the drama! Curtains that pool on the floor (think 4" or more of extra fabric) have a romantic, opulent look that exudes traditional elegance. This look is a little more high-maintenance, as you'll need to re-adjust your drapes after opening or closing them, or after vacuuming. Pooled curtains look best in luxe fabrics (like silk, satin, or velvet) that are lined to give them weight and body.
Have a curtain question? Leave a comment and we'll try to answer it in a future Design Tip post!
Image credits: CalFinder, Pottery Barn, Way Out West, West Elm, Pinterest, and La Dolce Vita.
This post gives tips on the length of curtains. You can do well to know all about it.
I have floor board registers below my living room window that can't be covered by a curtain. Would it look foolish to have the curtain come to just above them? It would be about 5 inches above the floor.
Hi anon, in your case I would suggest either cafe-length curtains (ones that end at the window sill) or another type of window treatment, like a soft roman shade. You're smart to keep curtains away from a register - that's defnitely a fire hazzard. Good luck!
Design Tip: How Long Should Curtains Be?