For those wrestling with the question of curtain length, interior designers offer a resounding answer: curtains are best when they gracefully graze the floor.
While a touch of extra fabric pooling beneath the window can add a dramatic touch, most experts recommend a length that lightly kisses the floor or hovers just a quarter-inch above. This “kissing” length creates a polished look that elevates the space, according to Lisa Staton, an interior designer.
“It keeps them long and generous, but not collecting dust,” Staton says. Becky Shea, another designer, compares ill-fitting curtains to a bad haircut, emphasizing the importance of that perfect drape.
So, why the floor-length love affair?
- Elevates the Room: Floor-grazing curtains visually elongate windows and draw the eye upwards, making the room feel taller and more expansive.
- Luxe Look: There’s a touch of grandeur to curtains that puddle slightly or brush the floor. This is especially true for heavier fabrics like velvet or silk.
- Practical Perks: Floor-length curtains offer better insulation from drafts and light, keeping your space cozy and comfortable.
Of course, there are always exceptions. For breezy, casual spaces, sill-length curtains can be charming. If you have low windows or furniture directly beneath the window, like a radiator or bench, shorter curtains might be more functional.
But overall, the design world seems to agree: curtains are most flattering when they flirt with the floor.
