A Guide to the Popular Styles of Curtains

If you’re not an expert on curtains, it’s not always easy to tell the different styles apart.

There are so many different pleats and fastenings that they can all start looking very similar after a while.

But don’t worry, in this article, the John Frederick team is going to be discussing some of the key styles of curtains, so you can get a better idea of what might work well in your home.

Single panel curtains

Made up of one piece of fabric that can be pulled right the way across a window, single panel curtains are a great modern option that work well in a minimal setting.

They’re also perfect for smaller windows where a double panel just wouldn’t work.

Pinch pleat curtains

Pinch pleat curtains are a great traditional option that can work well in all kinds of homes.

The pleats are stitched and then pinched together (hence the name) at the top, creating an intricate and rather formal look.

There are different kinds of pinch pleats, ranging from two fingers to five fingers (fingers, here, meaning the number of folds that create each pleat), with three being the most common type.

Usually, the more fingers, the fuller the appearance of the curtain.

Box pleat curtains

In contrast to the bunched up fingers of pinch pleats, box pleat curtains have a very uniform and square-like aesthetic, where each pleat is equidistant to the next.

Box pleat curtains look very modern, cosy, but also rather formal. For this reason, we think they work best in dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms.

Goblet pleat curtains

At first glance, you’ll notice that goblet pleat curtains don’t look too different to pinch pleat curtains.

The main difference between the two is that goblet pleat curtains are only pinched in the middle, which makes the pleat resemble a goblet or a wine glass. 

One thing to note about goblet pleat curtains is that the pleat can be a little delicate, making them better suited as a decorative option.

Probably give this one a miss if you’re looking for a heavy-duty set of curtains.

Pencil pleat curtains

Pencil pleat curtains have straight single pleats, meaning they can work more easily with different kinds of hooks and rods.

So, if you’re looking for something versatile that still looks the part, pencil pleats could well be a great choice for you.

Grommet curtains

Grommet curtains, also known as eyelet curtains, are a very modern style of curtain that you see in lots of different homes these days.

They are characterised by their open rings that can easily be fastened onto hooks or rods, and given their lack of pleating or other similar features, they have a decidedly minimal look.

Tab top curtains

Tab top curtains are a very relaxed, casual style of curtain that feature a main panel with loops at the top that can be fed over a rod.

Tab top curtains are often made from soft fabrics and look great in homes that are trying to aim for something cosy.

John Frederick is London’s favourite curtain supplier. We stock all kinds of different styles, so if you need any advice about what might best suit your home or business, or if you would like to place an order, please contact us, we’re always happy to help.

John Frederick is based in Hendon, but provides cleaning services throughout the Greater London area, including Bushey, Harpenden & Radlett. John Frederick’s are expert carpet, upholstery, curtain & blind cleaners. They also supply a wide range of curtains & blinds and carpet & flooring options to customers throughout London.