Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference? (2024)

What is a Valance and are they still in style for 2021?

Before we can answer the question about valances being in style, we need to clarify a few things. The word valance in the window treatment world can refer to a couple of options:

  • A wood or faux wood decorative piece at the top of your blind to cover the headrail or a decorative piece that covers the top of a vertical blind or aluminum blind.
  • A fabric top treatment that adds color, pattern and softness to the top of a window. Installed alone or over another window treatment like a blind or shade.

A fabric valance comes in multiple styles and can be mounted in two ways: board mounted or pole mounted. Board mounted styles are attached at the top to a header made out of wood. This style is usually very tailored and includes designs with pleat swags. Valances can also be mounted using a decorative drapery rod or pole. This style can be gathered, grommeted, or mounted with tabs or rings. The popularity of the style or fabric choice may determine if they are “in-style” at the current time. 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.

Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference? (1)

What’s popular in 2021?

In 2021, a minimal, more tailored style is popular as opposed to the ruffles and scarf swags of the 80’s. Because of this the streamlined style of a cornice has become popular and may be what you are looking for. They are similar to a valance in that they are considered decorative top treatments, but their construction is completely different.

What is the difference in a cornice compared to a valance?

A cornice is also made out of fabric, but is upholstered onto a solid box frame, usually made out of wood with a layer of batting and trimmed with cording to give it an upholstered look. It is sleeker and more modern than a valance. Depending on the fabric choice it can look more formal as opposed to a valance. For many the upholstered construction of a cornice means it always looks good, with no wrinkles or ripples in it. It is stable and you don’t have to make any adjustments once it is installed. Cornices are a great way to show off a large print, or bold geometric design, due to their smooth shape. Speaking of shape, the front of a cornice can be arched or shaped. The shape can follow the pattern of the fabric or can add detail to a neutral lush velvet or textured fabric.

Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference? (2)

A cornice is often used to cover a motorized drapery rod or to “hide” a shade up underneath. Added depth on the sides makes this possible. A fabric valance can also do the same thing. But, a cornice is a great option for windows viewed from the second story landing or open staircase, as even the top is upholstered!

Just like valances, cornices are also available in wood most often stained and can add a decorative element over blinds or shades. A cornice whether made from wood or upholstered in fabric, adds an elegance to a large window with multiple shades in it. The single cornice across the top unites the multiple shades and ties it all together beautifully.

Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference? (3)

So, whether you choose a cornice or valance, really comes down to which style fits “your style” and home décor! With hundreds of fabrics and an array of styles to choose from, your local Budget Blinds consultant will be happy to help you. Need some inspiration? Visit our website, request a Design Guide, or simply Download it here. Ready to see samples? Schedule your complimentary in-home consultation. To find your local Budget Blinds click here.

Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference? (2024)

FAQs

Are valances in style in 2022? ›

This style can be gathered, grommeted, or mounted with tabs or rings. The popularity of the style or fabric choice may determine if they are “in-style” at the current time. So, to answer the question above, Yes, valances are still in style when made out of trending fabrics, colors and designs!

Are cornices back in style? ›

Table of Contents. Cornices, whether made of wood cornice boards and stained to perfection or covered in a lovely fabric will always be in style for modern windows. They give your rooms a finished appearance and also add a bit of classic grandeur to your projects.

Is cornice outdated? ›

No, cornices are not outdated.

What is the difference between a valance and cornice? ›

Cornice. The primary difference between a curtain valance and a cornice is that valances are made out of drapery or fabric, while cornices are typically made out of wood. Valances also add a softer accent to a room.

What is the most popular window covering in 2022? ›

Undeniably, Roller Shades continue to be forecasted as the leading window covering trend in 2022 largely due to their minimalistic style. Roller shades are also available in a variety of earth tone colors, textures and hardware options, making them an ideal choice for the trending naturistic color pallet.

What is the most popular decorating style for 2022? ›

These Are the Top 8 Interior Design Trends for 2022, Experts Say
  1. Shades of Green. ...
  2. Curved Lines. ...
  3. Warm Neutrals. ...
  4. Layers of Texture. ...
  5. Mixing Vintage and New. ...
  6. Biophilic Design. ...
  7. Decline of the Home Office. ...
  8. Locally and Sustainably Sourced Furnishings.
Jun 7, 2022

What are the curtain trends for 2022? ›

In 2022, simplicity and minimalism are emerging in curtain and drapery styles. Less fluff and more flow are the way to go when choosing new curtains for your home. Classic materials like cotton and linen are top of the trend list to match the light, relaxing, naturalist themes this year.

Do modern houses have cornices? ›

Cornice Types / Styles

Similar to skirting boards or architrave styles, in period homes, especially those from the Victorian era, cornices will be more elaborate and decorative, while more contemporary and modern homes with have sleeker and more basic cornice designs.

Do cornices make a room look smaller? ›

Although there are no hard and fast rules, using a deep cornice in a room with low ceilings will feel out of proportion and shrink the room.

What can I use instead of cornice? ›

The most common type of ceiling and wall join application is called cornicing but there are other options on the market such as shadow line, moulded cornicing, square set, coffered and soffit.

What color should cornice be? ›

This is in terms of colour and finish. Ceiling paint should always be matt, as this is the best finish to hide any imperfections. It therefore follows that the cornice is painted in the same matt paint and colour as the ceiling. There are exceptions though which I will cover below.

Are valance sheets old fashioned? ›

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. Colour drenching is a popular option for getting creative with colour.

What does valance look like? ›

A valance is sort of like a very short drapery panel that only sits at the top of the window. Installed with either a curtain or drapery rod or stapled to a back board, a valance always has a soft appearance that can look casual or formal depending on which style your going for.

What window coverings are timeless? ›

6 Timeless Designer Window Treatment Styles
  • Zebra Roller Shades. This unique style features alternating stripes of light and dark fabric. ...
  • Plantation Shutters. ...
  • Venetian Blinds. ...
  • Roman Shades. ...
  • Cellular Coverings. ...
  • Sheer Curtains and Drapes.
Aug 6, 2022

Should blinds be lighter or darker than walls? ›

Blinds can be lighter or darker than your walls, but there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing a color. To ensure that everything blends well together, the blinds and walls should be at least one shade lighter or darker than each other, but most importantly, they should also be a similar tone.

What is the decorating trend for 2023? ›

Some of the most popular interior design trends for 2023 include the return of bold color, natural stone surfaces, closed floor plans, mixed metal finishes, luxe living, statement lighting, and 60s and 70s influences — particularly in furniture design.

What color is in style right now 2022? ›

For 2022, Etsy revealed Emerald Green as the color of the year. This emerald sits very close to the Kelly in the green family, and it is still showing up on SS22 runways from brands like Acne Studios, Three As Four and 3.1 Phillip Lim.

What are the latest home decor trends for 2023? ›

OTHER TRENDS THAT WILL BE BIG IN 2023
  • OUTDOOR ROOMS.
  • STATEMENT AND OVERSIZED LIGHTING.
  • BLACK AND WHITE.
  • DINING ROOMS USED AS DINING ROOMS.
  • CLASSIC STREAMLINED FURNITURE.
  • REFINED FARMHOUSE STYLE.
  • DESIGNER LAUNDRY ROOMS AND MUDROOMS.
  • LOTS OF NATURAL LIGHT.
Jan 17, 2023

Which blinds are most modern? ›

The most modern blinds in terms of the newest type of blinds to come to the market are cellular perfect fit blinds, closely followed by day and night blinds.

Which blinds are more modern? ›

Roller shades are some of the most modern blinds you can get. They are very sleek and simple and they offer a really neat and streamlined look.

What style blinds are modern? ›

Roller blinds are a popular option if you're looking for modern blinds. They have a sleek, contemporary look and offer lots of great benefits. A safe choice for most rooms. Match the height of full-size windows and doors with vertical blinds.

What is the color of curtain in 2022? ›

In line with a more minimalist approach to drapery, 2022 curtains are trending towards cleaner, earthier colors. Rather than multicolored or patterned curtains, select drapes in neutral colors like cream, white or slate gray. You may also wish to go even more natural with olive, forest green or deep blue.

What color curtains make a room look bigger? ›

Since bright colors are more reflective, the room looks airier and more open because it contains more natural light. Dark colors do just the opposite because they absorb light and make a space look smaller.

What kind of curtains are in style right now? ›

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.

Does cornice add value? ›

Installing an impressive cornice is a great way of taking a bare and uninteresting room into a visually stimulating place, which as an added bonus will add value to your property.

Is it necessary to have a cornice? ›

Gaps left between plasterboards and timber framing allow for expansion and contraction of the wood. If left exposed though, this can also lead to the plasterboard cracking – so cornices act as both a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for both the interiors and exteriors of a home.

What is trending in curtains 2022? ›

In 2022, simplicity and minimalism are emerging in curtain and drapery styles. Less fluff and more flow are the way to go when choosing new curtains for your home. Classic materials like cotton and linen are top of the trend list to match the light, relaxing, naturalist themes this year.

Is a valance old fashioned? ›

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.

What style is coming back in 2022? ›

2022 is trending to go beyond basic sweaters in favor of crochet sets and styles, like ankle-long dresses, and crop tops work with wide-legged pants. “A knitwear set is something that has become a fashionable take on glam leisure,” she says of the alternative to the traditional jogging suit.

What is in and out of style 2022? ›

Insider asked two style experts to share which fashion trends should be left in 2022. Denim-on-denim looks and camo-print clothes are both fading, as are larger sunglasses. They also said high-waisted pants were being replaced by mid- and low-rise varieties.

What can I use instead of a valance? ›

Tablecloth Linens. A crafty homeowner can whip up a window treatment with any textile—even table linens! Debbie from Debbie Doo's took pretty cloth napkins and hung them from a rod using curtain clips. The result is an easy and cheerful alternative to a traditional valance.

What are the three types of valance? ›

Types of Valances
  • Gathered valance – This is a traditional valance made with excess fabric that is bunched, or gathered, at the top.
  • Scarf valance – Scarf valances look like they sound. ...
  • Straight valance – Straight valances are the epitome of simplicity when it comes to window treatments.
Oct 1, 2015

Should I have a valance? ›

Valances and cornice boards are always useful as a design element, whether you're using them for roller shades, Zebra/dual shades, or to top off a classic looking Roman shade. They add functionality and stability to your window covering.

What style is coming back in 2023? ›

2023 Fashion Trend: Sheer Clothing

From a cellophane-like dress, worn over a boldly hued maxi skirt at Tory Burch, to a frothy frock revealing undergarments at Victoria Beckham, the previously risqué trend is coming not only for your weekend wardrobe but even workwear.

What are the trends for 2022 2023? ›

Winter 2023 is going to be about comfort and oversized statement pieces. Street style trends from November and December 2022 point toward fur and fleece-lined jackets, oversized pants, and gender neutral silhouettes. Bags are small, bright, and often crossbody. Utilitarian cargo pants and vests are also trending.

What are the house decor trends for 2023? ›

Here are the top home decor trends for 2023.
  • NATURAL WOOD.
  • TRADITIONAL STYLING. This trend is still on the rise in 2023 and gaining steam!
  • BLACK ACCENTS. Black is back! ...
  • WALLPAPERED POWDER ROOMS. ...
  • THINGS THAT STAY IN STYLE. ...
  • MORE COLOR. ...
  • Texture is necessary for depth, warmth and life in a room. ...
  • GLORIOUS GENTLE GOLD.
Jan 17, 2023

What is trending in interior design 2023? ›

Bold, unexpected colors will make a comeback.

Natural and neutral tones have been popular but Barnes said we can expect to see more color in spaces in 2023. "Moody colors, especially on the wall, can create the right vibe before you set the table or ease into your favorite sofa," Barnes said.

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