Home decor guide
Choosing Curtains: Length, Color and Fullness
Curtains are one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost upgrades in a room. But small choices — where you hang them, how long they are, how full — separate a polished window from a droopy one. Here's what to know.
Hang high and wide
Mount the rod close to the ceiling (or 4–6 inches above the window frame) and extend it 8–12 inches past each side. This makes windows look taller and wider and lets light in fully when open.
Get the length right
For a clean, tailored look, curtains should just kiss the floor or hover about half an inch above it. For a soft, romantic feel, let them 'break' or puddle an inch or two. Avoid the awkward 'floods' that stop above the floor.
Choose fullness
Panels should look gathered, not stretched flat. Aim for total curtain width of about two times the window width so they drape with body. Skimpy panels are the most common curtain mistake.
Pick color and weight for the job
Match the wall color for a seamless, room-lengthening effect, or contrast for drama. Choose blackout or thermal linings for bedrooms, and light linen or cotton where you want a soft, airy glow.
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FAQ
How long should curtains be?
For a tailored look, they should just touch the floor or hover half an inch above. For a softer look, let them break or lightly puddle. Avoid curtains that stop above the floor.
How wide should curtains be?
Aim for total panel width of about twice the window width so the curtains look full and gathered rather than stretched flat.