So, you’re wondering if valances are dated or out of style? When you think of the word “valances,” what’s the first thing you imagine or visualize? If you imagine white, overly ruffled valances and curtains, then the answer is probably yes. Nowadays, these styles are sold as primitive valances and are just a tiny subset of all valances that are available out there.
If when you think of valances, you imagine droopy valances without form made of some cheap polyester jacquard, then they definitely are dated and most definitely out of style.
But here lies the problem. Besides the fact that the fabric might be dated from today’s vantage point, what most people don’t realize is that many of those valances that are clumped into the pile of being “dated” were simply ill-constructed, ill-fitting valances to begin with.
They were “in” a few decades ago because they were more common. This doesn’t change the fact that they were poorly made valances then just like they would be today. Of course, as in any market, manufacturers came in and offered better quality products like shades, blinds, and draperies. So by lack of demand alone, many of those valances became dated, and rightfully so. Fast forward to today. Just like any product, valances are still used quite frequently by professional interior designers, even in the most modern of homes. So to answer the question…
Are Valances Old Fashioned?
Valances are NOT dated if you have a designer to guide you through the process and keep you away from poor quality that will become obvious and out of style in a few years.
When it comes to custom valances, there are many options out there that will weather the calendar. That’s what our entire website is for, so feel free to check out our photos to see what others are choosing for their windows. I might not have a crystal ball to tell you what the trends in the future will be, but I can tell you some things to look out for to help you choose the right valance that will last you years:
Tip #1: Pick a Valance with Only One or Two Focal Points.
There are many styles of valances out there. Rather than list every single one of them and make this more complicated than it needs to be, let me tell you what it all comes to in the end: Some valances will inevitably become dated because the designer tries to include too many features and fails at implementing all of them. That’s right, I can already tell you your valance will be out of style and old fashioned before you even hang it up on the window. So, if you’re trying to design a valance and rush into adding every single available feature like ties, buttons, trims, accent fabric, and so many others all in one, it will inevitably become a fad. If you want a valance to last, it has to be designed in moderation, as I like to say.
Contrary to some beliefs, some of those features on their own won’t make a valance dated or out of style.
There are plenty of valances that have beautiful tassel trim on them that are sophisticated and fit right into their newly remodeled homes. But they fit in because they don’t take away from the rest of the design in the room. Next time you decide to buy a valance, add up all of its features. If it has more than two, it might be best to pass on it or find a way to simplify it. Even three might be fine if the rest of the room has the luxury to match it, but anything beyond that will already be dated before the needle even hits the fabric.
Now, we’re not saying that an elaborate valance is dated. If you want one, you’ll need to put in more careful effort into its design. You’ll need to look at the bigger picture and consider how it fits in with the rest of your room.
And because this can be a daunting task, you may need the guidance of a designer as well. But if you’re just looking for a simplified, quick way to choose a valance, then my recommendation is to limit it to two features. Here are some valances that will stand the test of time, all because their design is simple and focused on one or two key features.
Focal point 1: grosgrain ribbon detail on inset edges
After you’ve found the right style of valance, it’s important to create it in a fabric that won’t make it look dated. It really all starts with the fabric when it comes to styling a valance. This is by far the most important factor. Luckily, it’s simple to understand, so if you just get the fabric right, you’ll stand a better chance of enjoying a valance that’s keeping up with the times. If you pick a fabric that has a pattern with cabbage roses or some classic color combinations, then it will be a traditional valance.
Keep in mind that just because a valance is traditional, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be dated. If you select a geometric pattern with cool blues and shimmers of silver or gold, then you’re closer to a modern valance. Also keep in mind that in the world of custom, fabric manufacturers constantly release new fabric collections and fabrics on average are discontinued roughly every 3 to 6 years.
Thus, if your designer is able to source a fabric from a manufacturer that’s still in print, then by default you’re staying with the trend. And even if the fabric has been discontinued, chances are, you’ll get the design itch again before the new wave of interior decorating trends is ushered in, before it’s even time to become old fashioned. In fact, most homeowners keep their custom window treatments up for an average of 7 to 8 years before they replace them.
(When you think about it, in many cases a custom window treatment is used for as long as a new car is. Design your room well and put thought into your window treatment so it can last you for years.)
2022 Fabric Trends for Valances
Let’s talk a bit about current fabric trends. Expect this to generally stay current for at least another 5 to 10 years.
Floral Fabrics
I don’t know about you, but back in the 1990s it seemed to me that every living room had a painting of a bouquet of roses in a traditional vase. You know, those paintings that had a ridiculously overcarved gold-brushed frame. But did you know that in the last few years floral prints have been coming back in home decor fabrics?
Luckily, fabric manufacturers are interpreting floral prints in contemporary ways now. Florals are now abstract and bold. I see a lot of bold pink being used in living rooms and master bedrooms, and red and corals are making a comeback again. Turquoise is also a color that is frequently part of floral prints, although it’s been popular for almost a decade by now. Floral fabrics now are deliberately designed in a childlike, imaginative manner, with other unusual and seemingly disproportionate things brought into the design like birds on vines, paisley insets, and a few intentionally distressed or tribal print details. Some of the floral prints are designed in a structured manner with some geometric details that are introduced into the pattern as well. Dimension and depth are also apparent in newer fabric patterns.
Many of our clients initially come to me with a safe (neutral) color scheme in mind, but when I open my fabric books for them, these colorful floral prints quickly grow on them. But just like with anything else that’s unexpected, sometimes these clients understandably need time to get used to this trend. They’re looking around for validation that the fabric that they fell in love with will work in their home. Only after they look through design magazines or see another example elsewhere do they realize that there are plenty of homes that have already used these bold patterns in recent trends.
Update in 2022: We’re starting to see a subtle shift toward warmer florals. From cold blues to forest greens and from pale reds to bolder reds. Smaller floral patterns are also becoming more abundant compare to large centerpiece floral prints.
The craze for ikats started quite a few years ago, but they are still alive and well. That’s because ikat has a history that’s as unique as its distinctly unique pattern. Centuries ago, ikat weavers would dye each thread individually before putting all the threads together onto the loom that would ultimately create the fabric.
It was similar to putting together a puzzle. But because it was impossible to predict how exactly the threads would come together, the final fabric had distorted lines that we have come to appreciate. Of course, in modern times this complicated, manual way of creating a textile is almost extinct. The ikat effect is instead deliberately mimicked by fabric screen-printing machines.
Update in 2022: Ikats are slowly being phased out since they’ve been hot for over a decade now, but they’re still a staple piece in modern, sleek rooms, especially when the pattern is printed on a crisp white base fabric.
Chinoiserie Fabrics
Chinoiserie is simply a Western interpretation of Chinese design elements. When it comes to fabrics, this typically is a toile with designs of Chinese country scenery or architectural elements. If you see ginger jars printed on a fabric, more than likely it belongs to this category of design as well.
Chinoiserie is nothing new. It has been around for a while just like ikat, but I noticed that it’s being used more boldly with modern pieces.
In the past, designers were combining the two styles, but they let Chinoiserie and modern elements tiptoe around each other and kept them at a distance. But in 2019, it’s not uncommon to see a pillow made in Chinoiserie right next to a pillow with an ultra-modern geometric print, for example.
Update in 2022: Chinoiserie fabrics tend to be a novelty, and because they are a rare find, they typically exude more luxury than the average fabric out there. These kinds of fabrics have always been in style, and will equally continue to be in style, no matter what year it is.
Geometric Lattice Fabrics
Intertwining lines and intricate geometric patterns have always been modern. If you’re really concerned that your valance will be dated, these fabrics are then for you. The more complex and large the pattern, the more modern the fabric tends to become. There’s also a trend towards embroidery rather than print.
If you’re worried that the lines might be too stark, I recommend choosing a pattern with some rounded shapes. Arabesque designs are a great example of this. With their rounded lattice pattern, they make a fabric modern while giving it a subtle feminine flair. The first two fabrics below are a representation of this.
Update in 2022: Modern style isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so geometric lattice patterns are here to stay for many years.
Tip #3: Pick an inside mount or outside mount that barely covers your window.
Most valances are installed as inside mounts or outside mounts. Inside simply means that a window treatment is installed in between the two studs of the window. Outside means that it’s mounted above the window on the wall.
You might ask, what does this have to do with a valance being dated or out of style?
We circle back to the beginning of the post. Remember, many valances aren’t necessarily dated. They simply don’t fit a window properly. I see so many store-bought valances that are intended to hang flat in a simple, modern way. I’ll be fair – many of those valances are lined and of decent, even good quality sometimes.
But in order to fit a window that’s slightly wider, the customer is sometimes wrongfully instructed to purchase two of them. Have you ever seen a window that has a valance that sticks out 6 inches beyond it on each side? Any valance that’s installed that way will be dated, no matter what. Valances are meant to be complementary to a window. Ill-fitting valances overwhelm a window instead. It’s just going to look strange and make you vow to never buy a valance again (wrongfully so).
You may also (wrongfully) conclude that valances just cover your beautiful window and ruin the view. Actually, a properly fitted custom valance is supposed to cover the wall more than the window. It’s supposed to frame the window and the view, not block it. In fact, the bottom hem of your valance should be flirting with the top of your window frame. On the other side of the spectrum, inside-mounted valances are framed by the window instead of the other way around. This keeps the focus on the window and its beautiful frame.
In conclusion, valances are not dated at all. By following these three tips, you’ll find one that’s perfect for you.
Window valances came into their own during the Victorian era, spanning the mid- to late-1800s. Victorian homes were all about lavishness and excess: ornate patterns and flourishes, heavy tapestries, rich wall coverings, and dramatic window treatments were popular home decorations at the time.
A valance is a great way to cover the mechanism of vertical blinds while adding a personal touch. This is an fairly easy project most any homeowner can complete, and it will add a bit of flair to any window in the home, even a patio door.
Swags are also strips of fabric for the top of the window. However, unlike valances, they have even less structure. In fact, a swag is a longer and wider strip of fabric that drapes across the top of the window. It can be woven loosely around a rod, or it can drape from one tieback to another.
Are they still in style? Just about everyone agrees that curtains are still in style, but not just because they are useful and affordable. According to Livingetc, curtains add texture and coziness to a space, something other window coverings like blinds and shutters cannot do.
However, window valances are not totally out of style. They are a timeless window treatment that can remain fashionable for many years after installation, but homeowners should take care when choosing their valances.
Valances can be used to create a border around the tops of any roller shade or blinds. They also provide an extra layer that helps insulate your room against temperature changes and prevent drafts from coming in through open windows.
A common valance is shared between multiple window blinds and the valance covers each headrail. Because this upgrade is not offered through our website simply give us a call at the time your order is placed and we can adjust your order for a shared valance.
When layering, your valance can be used to “soften” a window, or to coordinate with the fabrics or throw pillows of nearby furniture. A valance curtain helps give a consistent, coordinating look and feel for just about any window treatment.
Valance sheets previously had a stereotype of being a bit old-fashioned.But that's not the case anymore. There are numerous interior trends that allow you a chance to play with colour and print, making them easy to work into your décor.
You can choose a shade that's similar so the valance blends in, or you can choose to be bold and bright with colors that contrast your walls. If you want a good pop of color, a contrasting window valance will do an amazing job. If you have yellow walls, a shade of blue will pop nicely.
Grommets and wave pleats are being left behind, with pinch pleat drapery gaining popularity instead. The more adventurous are opting for Austrian shades and soft romantic draped shades, which bring more drama to the windows and allow them to take center stage in the design of a room.”
Curtains and draperies are classics that will never go out of style! But just like any other interior design element in your home, there are window treatment trends and styles that come and go.
Curtain materials like organic cotton, bamboo and recycled fabrics are becoming increasingly popular choices for window treatments. Not only are these materials better for the environment, but they also offer a natural, organic feel to a space.
So, to answer the question above, Yes, valances are still in style when made out of trending fabrics, colors and designs! Plus, classic designs are always in style, they just may need to be updated in a more current fabric pattern or color.
Stewart is a proponent of natural light, and several of her homes' windows are bare and intended to allow daylight in and accommodate enjoyment of the surrounding views. Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy.
Valances—and there are plenty of other non-curtain options you can choose from as well, including blinds, shades, shutters, verticals, roman shades, and stained glass film.
Alexander valance provides a modern elegant look and is perfect for living room, bedroom, dining room, kids' room, or any indoor and outdoor space of your home. The fabric of the curtain is innovative triple weave fabric construction (260gsm).
For most windows, a valance should cover about 2 to 6 inches of the top of the window and window frame (this is called the window overlap), with the rest of the valance covering the wall above the window. If there is not enough room to do this, then the valance should be hung immediately under the ceiling.
A base valance is fitted underneath the mattress and covers the bottom of the bed. A sheet valance is fitted over the mattress, acting as both a fitted sheet and a valance.
Neutral colors like gray, black, taupe, beige, ivory and shades of white are fresh and modern. Pick curtains at least one shade lighter or darker than the walls to prevent them from blending in and disappearing. If you're choosing white curtains, remember that light colors tend to be less opaque than dark colors.
To make a plain valance, first measure the width of your window. Multiply this width by 1-1/2. The length of the valance should be 1/4 the window height plus one inch.
Some of the most popular options include roller blinds, Roman blinds, and Venetian blinds. Roller blinds are a great choice for rooms that receive a lot of sunlight, as they can be easily pulled down to block out the light. Roman blinds are a beautiful option for any room in the house, as they provide a luxurious look.
If your curtain accessories/hardware at the top are not show-worthy or you don't like their industrial look, you can hang valances with curtains to cover them off.
For a valance that is gathered, and balloon valances, figure double the width of your window. For a flat, tailored look, the valance should be wide enough to cover the width of the rod plus the side returns of the rod.
That being said, you don't always have to match your drapes and your valances perfectly. We talked about this in the earlier section, but here, you can take it to the next level. White drapes, a dark blue valance, for example. That's too safe.
Although top sheets prevent your comforter from getting dirty, the widespread use of duvet covers has made them somewhat obsolete. Either way you choose to go, make sure your bedding is soft, comfortable, customized to your liking — and regularly washed.
Scalloped Valances: The bottom edge of these valances is a series of circular fabric cuts that lie across the window opening. In some cases, they're gathered to present a slightly puffier appearance. Balloon Valances: These are gathered valances that have the puffy appearance of balloons.
Your best option is 100% linen or linen blended with rayon. These are much more durable fabrics that are resistant to wrinkling and won't fade as easily. Better yet, invest in decorator fabrics like those from Everhem, and you can rest assured your window treatments have already been treated for optimal durability.
Sometimes referred to as the bumper valance, this thin, slim piece is situated under the front bumper. The sole purpose of the component is aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Depending on its placement, it can function similarly to an air dam by directing the airflow underneath the car.
If you're shopping for ready-made valances, the most common standard size you'll likely come across is a 50-inch wide valance. If you're hiring a custom workroom, you can specify any size. We offer valances between 18 and 189 inches wide on our site.
Another rule of thumb used by decorators is that the window valance depth should be 1/4 of the overall window height, plus 1 inch. A 60-inch tall window, then, would call for a 16-inch deep valance, while a 48-inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep.
Which color curtains go with everything? Neutral curtains in tones such as beige, taupe and gray, as well as white and nearby shades such as ivory and cream can be the go-with-everything choice.
A warm beige or taupe curtain is a great way to add warmth to your living space. Keep the rest of your furniture light and airy and let the curtains add a moody element to your room.
Coming first on the list is Scandinavian interior design, with over 700,000 pins. A minimalist style, “Scandi” decor is marked by clean lines, neutrals with the occasional pop of color, and soft textures like linen and wood. Second place goes to Art Deco, with over 568,000 pins.
The biggest style trends out of fashion for 2023 are mini pleated skirt with socks and chunky loafers, blazer with biker shorts, skinny jeans with chunky sneakers, mini pleated skirt with a crop top, leggings with high heels, ripped jeans with sneakers, dress with chunky sneakers, corset tops with cargo pants (wear ...
Valance sheets previously had a stereotype of being a bit old-fashioned.But that's not the case anymore. There are numerous interior trends that allow you a chance to play with colour and print, making them easy to work into your décor.
Valances can be used to create a border around the tops of any roller shade or blinds. They also provide an extra layer that helps insulate your room against temperature changes and prevent drafts from coming in through open windows.
The aesthetic of the 1950s called for draperies with abstract prints and tropical flowers. Another popular choice was pinch-pleated drapes, which have a tailored look due to the pinch pleats at the top of the window treatment. These were frequently hung from ceiling to floor.
Valence, or hedonic tone, is the affects' property specifying the intrinsic attractiveness/"good[ness]" (positive valence) or averseness/"bad[ness]" (negative valence) of an object, event, or situation. The term also categorises emotions.
One of a valance's primary functions is to cover up hardware, curtain rods, and anything else at the top of a window you might want to adorn. A valance gives a continuous look and feel to any window covering. They can even tie together different window coverings in the same room.
A common valance is shared between multiple window blinds and the valance covers each headrail. Because this upgrade is not offered through our website simply give us a call at the time your order is placed and we can adjust your order for a shared valance.
Curtain materials like organic cotton, bamboo and recycled fabrics are becoming increasingly popular choices for window treatments. Not only are these materials better for the environment, but they also offer a natural, organic feel to a space.
A portiere is a hanging curtain placed over the doorless entrance to a room. It's name is derived from the French word for door, porte. The portiere, (rhymes with affair), or door drapery, was a common practice known to have been in use in Europe in the 4th century.
Fabrics with flowers, fruit, and abstract designs were everywhere in the 1950s, as well as bold designs like stripes, checks, stars, and polka dots. Atomic graphics that were inspired by science and space travel, like galaxies, planets, and the notorious “Boomerang” pattern began popping up ubiquitously.
Café Café curtains are short panels that cover only the lower portion of a window, and they are positioned so that they just hit the window sill. They are most frequently used in areas where full length curtains are not practical, such as in the bathroom and kitchen.
Introduction: My name is Nicola Considine CPA, I am a determined, witty, powerful, brainy, open, smiling, proud person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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