Luxury Valances

Everything You Need to Know About Luxury Valances

Luxury valances are a great addition to any room that needs a touch of elegance and sophistication. They come in a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors, and can be used to complement your curtains or simply as a stand-alone window treatment. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about luxury valances, including their benefits, styles, materials, and installation.

A valance is a decorative piece of fabric that is used to cover the top of a window, often used in combination with curtains or blinds. Luxury valances refer to valances that are made from high-quality materials and are designed to add an extra element of elegance and sophistication to a room. Luxury valances are often made from premium fabrics such as silk, velvet, or linen and may be embellished with decorative trims, tassels, or embroidery. They may also feature intricate patterns or designs that are unique and eye-catching.

Types of Luxury Valances

Valances come in various styles and materials, and you can choose the perfect one to complement your decor. Below are different types of valances and their features.

Box Pleat Valance

The box pleat valance is a classic style that features pleats that run horizontally across the fabric. This valance looks great in traditional and formal settings, and it's a popular choice for living rooms and dining rooms. Box pleat valances are typically made from heavier fabrics like velvet or linen to help the pleats maintain their shape.

Balloon Valance

Balloon valances are an elegant option that adds a touch of romance to any room. This type of valence features gathered fabric that creates a ballooning effect. Balloon valances look great in bedrooms, especially in a princess-themed room. They are made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or silk to help achieve the desired effect.

Austrian Swag 

Swag valances are a classic and elegant choice for any room. This type of valance features cascading fabric that is gathered in the middle and hangs down on either side of the window. Swag valances are typically made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, and they come in a variety of styles, from simple to elaborate.

Scarf Valance

A scarf valance is a long, flowing piece of fabric that drapes over the top of the window and cascades down the sides. This type of valance is a great option if you want to add a touch of drama to your room. Scarf valances are typically made from lightweight fabrics like chiffon or organza.

Cornice Valance

A cornice valance is a wooden or fabric-covered board that sits above the window and extends outward. This type of valance is a great option if you want a more structured look. Cornice valances come in a variety of styles, from simple to ornate, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, foam, or fabric.

Tab Top Valance

Tab top valances are a casual and simple option that looks great in kitchens or informal dining areas. This type of valance features fabric tabs that are sewn onto the top of the valance, and they are hung from a curtain rod. Tab top valances are typically made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.

Grommet Valance

Grommet valances are a modern and contemporary option that features metal rings that are sewn into the top of the fabric. The rings are then hung from a curtain rod. This type of valance looks great in living rooms or home offices, and they are typically made from heavier fabrics like velvet or faux suede.

Classic Overlapping

A classic overlapping valance is a type of window treatment that is used to decorate the top portion of a window. It is typically made from a piece of fabric that is draped over a rod or a board that is mounted above the window. The valance is then pulled down to cover the upper portion of the window and can be secured in place with hooks or other fasteners.

Are valances in style in 2023?

Valances are decorative window treatments that have been around for centuries. They are typically made from fabric and hang from the top of a window frame, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. However, with changing trends and styles, the question arises, are valances still in style in 2023? The answer is yes! Valances are still very much in style in 2023, and they continue to be a popular choice for homeowners and designers alike. In fact, valances have evolved with time and have become more versatile and contemporary than ever before.

One of the reasons why valances remain in style is their ability to add a finishing touch to a room. They can help tie together the various design elements in a space and add depth and dimension to a window. However, valances can be used to conceal unsightly hardware or to soften the look of a bare window. Another reason why valances are still in style in 2023 is their versatility. They come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, and can be made from a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, linen, and polyester. This versatility makes valances suitable for any room in the house, from the bedroom to the living room, and from the kitchen to the bathroom.

How Much Longer Should a Valance Be Than the Window?

To properly dress your windows, it is important to consider scale and proportion. For instance, tall windows are suitable for high ceilings, while thicker, fuller, and more intricate window treatments are ideal for larger windows. Conversely, small and straightforward window treatments are best for tiny bathroom windows. If you opt for valances, ensure that you select their length and width while keeping scale and proportion in mind.

The length of a valance can vary based on personal preference and the style of the valance. However, as a general rule of thumb, a valance should be between one-third to one-half longer than the width of the window it is covering. For example, if your window is 36 inches wide, your valance should be between 48 to 54 inches long. This extra length allows the valance to gather or drape nicely, adding visual interest and softness to the window treatment.

It's worth noting that this guideline is just a suggestion, and the actual length of the valance may vary depending on the style and material of the valance, as well as the desired look and feel of the room. Ultimately, the best length for your valance will depend on your personal preference and the specific requirements of your window treatment.

While there are no strict rules to adhere to, there are some principles to keep in mind when selecting or creating valances:

Measuring

A valance doesn't have to have an exact horizontal width. Although it may seem logical to measure the width of your window and use that as a guide, this approach is incorrect. Keep in mind that, like curtains, the valance will be gathered on the curtain rod. To determine the appropriate fabric width for the valance, multiply the window width by 1.5 to 3. For rigid fabrics like a canvas that won't gather as much, opt for a lower number in that range.

Measuring Length

You have a lot of flexibility when it comes to the vertical length of your valance. While there isn't a precise formula for determining the ideal valance length, a good starting point is typically between one-sixth to one-quarter the height of the window. However, if your windows are exceptionally wide, you may want to consider a slightly longer length. To find the perfect length for your valance, you can experiment by pinning scraps of fabric at various lengths and hanging them from your window. This way, you can see which length looks best and adjust accordingly.

Making the valance

After measuring and cutting your fabric, ensuring to include extra fabric for hems and the loop for the rod, it's important to pin the fabric. Begin by folding the hems and pinning them in place. Stitch the hems using a sewing machine, carefully removing the pins as you work. Once the hems are complete, create the loop for the curtain rod. Wrap the top of the valance around the curtain rod, using pins to mark the measurements. Next, remove the rod, add additional pins as needed, and complete the stitching.

How to Match Your Valances to Your Bedding

Transforming your bedroom into a tranquil sanctuary requires more than just luxurious bedding and plush carpeting. The right color scheme is also essential. Coordinating your curtains and bedding can be a simple way to achieve this. As they are typically the first and last things you see before and after sleeping, selecting complementary colors can greatly impact the quality of your slumber. Don't underestimate the power of a well-planned color combination in promoting restful sleep.

Embrace texture

Matching textures is another way to coordinate a space. Incorporating texture into a room adds depth and enhances its visual appeal. The bedroom can particularly benefit from texture, especially in the form of coordinating curtains and bedding. There exists a wide variety of designs and styles available that provide different levels of compatibility. For instance, maximalist fashions, such as floral bedding, typically complement richer hues and thicker curtain fabrics. In contrast, cotton sheets are more suited to lighter curtain drapes and textured throws. The appeal of textures lies in the ability to try out various fabrics like velvet, silk, and cotton. Each material imparts a unique ambiance and appearance to your space, resulting in a cohesive and well-coordinated aesthetic.

Consider room size

Although a minimalist bedroom design may seem attractive, the limited space can pose challenges in terms of decor. The colors and lighting in the room can significantly impact its ambiance and appearance, hence, the bedding and curtains should complement them. Lighter color palettes are often more suitable for smaller bedrooms as they create an illusion of spaciousness and enhance natural light. Opting for smaller prints on bedding can also prevent the bed from dominating the room, as it's usually the largest piece of furniture.

Coordinating soft furnishings

Creating a harmonious décor in your bedroom can be achieved in various ways, including matching bedding and curtains. However, incorporating soft furnishings such as cushions, throws, and pillows can add a finishing touch to the overall look. While it's not necessary to use the same patterns or fabrics as the other elements, selecting colors and designs that complement them can enhance the cohesive feel of the room.

How to Care for Your Valances So They Last a Long Time

To ensure your valances last a long time, it's important to take proper care of them. Here are some tips on how to care for your valances:

Reduce Exposure to Sunlight

Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause fading of curtain colors. Light-colored fabric curtains reflect light and are more resistant to fading, while dark-colored curtains absorb light and fade faster. To prevent fading, it is recommended to draw back or pull up your curtains during the daytime. If you have sheer fabrics or curtains that are meant to stay drawn, you may disregard this tip. However, if you want to shield your curtains from the sun, you can use blinds and shades. Choosing wood blinds can be an excellent option since they offer both quality and style.

Ensure curtains are of perfect length

To prevent curtains from getting dirty quickly, it's important to have them at the right length. If they are too long, they may drag on the floor and accumulate dirt or get stepped on by people and pets in your home. Additionally, curtains that are too long can be pulled on, causing damage to the track or poles.

Vacuum Your Curtains Often

It is common for curtains to accumulate dust, which can cause discoloration in lighter fabrics. To prevent this, it is recommended to vacuum your curtains at least once a month to make cleaning easier. When vacuuming, use a soft brush attachment to remove as much dust as possible.

Whether you're looking to create a focal point in a room or provide privacy and light control, luxury valances are versatile and functional window treatments that can enhance the overall look and feel of your home.