Choosing the proper curtains may seem quite significant. The curtains are more than mere fabric pieces. They alter the atmosphere of the room. With curtains, a place can become warm, light, or classy. However, having so many options, how would you begin? There is a chance that you come across a design that you adore but are unfamiliar with the name.

In this guide, we will walk you through 25 types of curtains. You will learn their names and what makes each one special. After reading this, you will be able to choose the perfect window dressing for your home with confidence. 

Knowing the different types of curtains is the first step to a beautiful room.

Curtain Types Based on How They Hang

The top part of a curtain is called the header. This part decides how the curtain attaches to the rod. It creates the curtain's overall look.

the rod. It creates the curtain's overall look.

1. Grommet Curtains (or Eyelet Curtains)

Grommet curtains feature a series of large metal rings that are punched into the header. The curtain rod simply goes through these rings. As a result, it forms big, soft, modern waves which are very trendy. They can be opened and closed with a minimum effort. This trendy curtain style is perfect for a clean, minimalist look.

2. Rod Pocket Curtains

This is a classic curtain style. A pocket is sewn at the top of the curtain panel. The rod slips through this pocket. This creates a bunched, casual look at the top. Rod pocket curtains are best for windows you do not open and close often. They are a bit hard to slide.

3. Tab Top Curtains

Tab top curtains have loops of fabric at the top. These tabs slide over the curtain rod. This style gives a room a relaxed, country, or cottage feel. Like rod pocket styles, they are best used as stationary curtain panels.

4. Pinch Pleat Curtains

Pinch pleat refers to one of the classic styles for curtains. At the top, a few pleats are stitched together in each small group. As a result, a rich, elegant appearance is made. Pleats can be of two-finger, three-finger, or even five-finger types. The greater the number of pleats, the more voluminous the curtain will be. On the one hand, they can be hung from rings with the help of hooks.

5. Pencil Pleat Curtains

Pencil pleat curtains have a header with tightly gathered folds. These folds look like a row of pencils. This is a very common and versatile heading. It works well in both casual and formal rooms. You can adjust the gathering to fit your window width.

6. Box Pleat Curtains

Box pleat curtains have deep, boxy folds. They look very tailored and neat. This curtain style brings a formal, clean feeling to a room. The pleats run down the full length of the curtain. This creates a very structured window treatment.

7. Goblet Pleat Curtains

This is one of the most formal types of window curtains. The pleats at the top are shaped like a wine glass or goblet. They are usually stuffed to keep their shape. Goblet pleat curtains are very fancy. They are often used in grand dining rooms or formal living rooms.

8. Wave Fold Curtains

They are called S-Fold curtains as well. The style produces a flawless wave pattern similar to a ripple. The curtains are suspended from a particular rail. This allows them to move smoothly. It is a very contemporary and fashionable solution for any room, particularly for expansive windows or sliding doors.

9. Tie Top Curtains

Similar to tab top curtains, this style has fabric ties at the top. You tie them directly onto the curtain rod. This gives a very soft, romantic, and casual look. Tie top curtains are perfect for a shabby chic or farmhouse style room.

Curtain Types Based on Function and Fabric

The material of your curtain matters a lot. It affects how much light comes in, how much privacy you have, and even your heating bill. Understanding curtain material types is key.

10. Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains usually are made from thin and light fabric. They are transparent. They basically allow full light to come in from outside while still giving very minimal privacy. With the use of these curtains, one gets to have the feeling of opening the window and fresh air is coming in. The light flowing from the window through the sheer curtains is then further softened more by the layering or usage of heavier drapes which are normally placed alongside the sheer panels.

11. Blockout Curtains (or Blackout Curtains)

Blockout curtains are made from thick, heavy fabric. They are often lined to block out almost all sunlight. They are perfect for bedrooms or media rooms. Blackout drapes also help reduce noise and save energy.

"Good design is obvious. Great design is transparent." - [Joe Sparano]. 

This applies to curtains. The best ones fit the room so well you barely notice them, you just feel their effect.

12. Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains are designed for insulation. They have a special lining that helps keep rooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This can help you save money on your energy bills. Many thermal curtains are also blockout curtains.

13. Acoustic Curtains

If you live in a noisy area, acoustic curtains can help. They are made from very heavy, dense materials. These materials absorb sound waves. This helps to quiet your room. They are great for home offices, studios, or light sleepers.

14. Decorative Curtains

Some curtains are just for looks. Decorative curtains might be made of beautiful silk or have fancy embroidery. They act as a piece of art for your window. They are not always focused on light control or privacy.

Curtain Types Based on Length

The length of your curtains can dramatically change the look of your room. Choosing the right curtain length is an important decision in your interior décor journey

15. Apron Curtains

Apron curtains hang about four inches below the window sill. This is a practical length that avoids getting dirty from the floor. It’s a great choice for kitchen curtain types or in a child's room.

16. Window Sill Curtains

As the name suggests, these curtains end right at the window sill. This is a neat and tidy look. It is often used for cafe curtains or in bathrooms where long curtains are not practical.

17. Floor-Length Curtains

This is the most popular curtain length. These curtains just skim the floor. They give a tailored and classic look. This style works well in almost any room, from the living room to the bedroom.

18. Puddle-Length Curtains

For a dramatic and luxurious look, choose puddle-length curtains. These curtains have extra fabric that pools, or "puddles," on the floor. This style is very formal and romantic. It's best for rooms where you will not be opening and closing the curtains a lot.

Curtain Panel Styles

You can buy curtains as single panels or in pairs. This choice depends on your window and your style.

19. Single Panel Curtains

A single panel curtain is simply one fabric piece that is used to cover the entire window. To open it, you move it to one side. This is a contemporary style that is great for either a large window or a sliding glass door.

20. Double Panel Curtains

This is the most common setup. Two curtain panels are hung on the window. You can pull them open from the middle. This creates a symmetrical and balanced look. This is one of the most classic types of curtains.

Specialty Curtain Styles

Some curtain style types are designed for specific windows or looks.

21. Cafe Curtains

Cafe curtains are short. They cover only the bottom half of a window. This gives you privacy while still letting in light from the top. They are very common in kitchens and breakfast nooks.

22. Bay Window Curtains

Bay windows are beautiful but can be tricky. You need a special curtain rod that curves to fit the window. Any curtain style can be used, but rod pocket or grommet curtains are popular choices for bay window treatments.

23. A Curtain Style Guide for Living Rooms

The decision is completely up to you regarding living room curtains. A formal look can be achieved by using pinch pleat drapes. A wave fold curtain will give a modern appearance. Or a plain cotton panel will make the room warm. The living room curtain types that you use ought to reflect the atmosphere of the room. It is very simple to come up with the correct style when you look through the classy types of curtains at KapsLiving.

24. Popular Curtain Types for Kitchens

Kitchens need curtains that work well. Cafe curtains will be a great choice. Maybe short apron curtains will also work. Pick fabrics that can be washed without any trouble. Nice appearance and safety should always be combined. Check that curtains are not close to the stove.

25. Modern Curtain Styles

What makes a curtain modern? Clean lines and simple fabrics. Grommet curtains and wave fold curtains are very popular modern choices. Solid colors or simple geometric patterns are also common.

How to Choose the Right Curtain Type?

With so many curtain types and names, how do you pick one? Think about these things.

First, consider the function. Is it that you want privacy? Is it that you want to block the light? Or are the curtains merely for styling? Your answer will assist you in selecting between sheer, blockout, or decorative curtains.

Secondly, think about the style of your room. A formal dining room may require goblet pleats. A cozy bedroom may be wonderful with tie-top curtains. The curtain hardware also has a share in the final look.

Third, take a good look at your window and measure it precisely. This will give you the size of the curtains in both length and width that you will need. Do not forget to take the measurement from the place where the rod is going to be.

Final Words

Windows are the eyes of your house. Proper curtains are an ideal frame. You have just learned 25 different types of curtains. From grommet tops to puddle-length panels, you have a comprehensive curtain styles list to lead you. Now you can spot the difference between different curtain styles names and grasp their function.

Choosing window treatments is no longer a puzzle. It is an exciting part of decorating your space. Whether you need privacy curtains for your bedroom or beautiful sheer panels for your living room, you are ready to make a great choice. For a truly transformative look, explore the beautiful and diverse curtain options available at KapsLiving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between curtains and drapes? 

The main difference is the fabric weight. Curtains are generally made of lighter fabrics and are unlined. Drapes are made of heavier, thicker fabrics and are almost always lined. Drapes offer more light blocking and insulation.

What are the most popular curtain types in 2025? 

Experts see a trend towards natural fabrics and simple styles. According to a 2025 market report from Grand View Research, sustainability is a key driver. This means linen and organic cotton curtains are very popular. 

How do I measure my windows for curtains? 

First, decide where you will hang the rod. It should be 4-6 inches above the window frame. For width, measure the window and add 8-12 inches. This ensures the curtains look full when closed. 

Are sheer curtains enough for privacy? 

During the day, sheer curtains offer a good amount of privacy. You can see out, but it's hard for people to see in. At night, however, when the lights are on inside, people can see through them easily.