The Complete Novice's Guide to Curtain Lengths

Finding the perfect curtain length for your windows can be a frustrating endeavor, especially if you're new to decorating. With so many options to choose from, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Should you go for floor length curtains or sill length? What's the difference between standard and custom sizes? We'll walk you through everything you need to know as a curtain length novice, from definitions to measurements and specialty styles.

What Are Standard Curtain Lengths?

When shopping for new curtains, you'll likely come across common "standard" length options. These refer to the most widely manufactured and available curtain dimensions that work well for typical window configurations. Here's an overview of the 3 main standard curtain lengths:

• 84 inches - Apron length that falls just below most standard window heights
• 96 inches - Stacks neatly on the floor for most rooms with 8 ft. ceilings
• 108 inches - Full length for floor-to-ceiling windows

These standard options provide a convenient starting point. However, you'll still want to take careful measurements of your specific windows and rooms to ensure the best fit. Getting the length right makes a big difference aesthetically and functionally.

Why Proper Curtain Length Matters

Hanging curtains feels like a purely decorative endeavor. But getting the length right impacts both the form and function of your window treatments. Here's why it matters:

Aesthetics - Balance and Proportion

Curtains that are too long overwhelm the window and drag down the whole aesthetic of the room. Conversely, skimpy curtains that hover awkwardly above the window sill fail to frame the window properly. The right lengths provide balance, drawing the eye comfortably up and down.

Functionality - Light and Privacy Control

Beyond looks, one of the main jobs of curtains is controlling light and privacy. Curtains that are too short leave gaping spaces for light and prying eyes. Annoyingly long curtains that bunch up on the floor block external views when open. The optimal length gives you full control over the room's ambiance.

Key Considerations When Choosing Curtain Lengths

Many factors impact what curtain length will work best for your space. Carefully thinking through the following will set you up for success:

Exact Window Height

Start by measuring the vertical height of your windows precisely. This gives you a baseline to work from. Make sure to measure from the top of the rod pocket to the window sill.

Added Length for Stacking and Insulation

Add 12-18 inches of length beyond the basic window height. This gives curtains sufficient room to stack neatly when open. It also allows curtain hems to just graze the floor, blocking drafts and insulating better.

Window Location and Function

The purpose of certain windows in your space should guide length decisions. Floor-to-ceiling dramatic windows in living rooms often look best with long, luxurious curtains. Meanwhile, smaller higher windows meant primarily for natural light may pair better with cafe length curtains.

Room Proportions and Features

Consider the overall ceiling height, layout, and existence of tall furniture around windows. Make sure curtain lengths balance nicely with your rooms' vertical proportions. Similarly, account for furniture like bookcases or beds below windows that may dictate necessary curtain lengths.

Style and Decor Intentions

Room formality and overall decorative goals also impact ideal curtain lengths. Formal living rooms tend to suit sweeping full-length curtains. While casual spaces like kitchen nooks with a bright, airy intent may call for subtle high-sill lengths. Choose sizes harmonizing with your rooms' vibes.

Overview of Standard Curtain Length Options

Now that you know key considerations for selecting the optimal curtain length, let's dive into pros, cons and best uses for each of the 3 main standard sizes:

84-Inch Length

The 84-inch length falls around 7 feet, making it a versatile option for average-height windows. When hung properly, 84-inch curtains frame standard windows beautifully while stacking attractively on the floor. They bring softness to living rooms and warmth to bedrooms without overwhelming the space. Just take care that your ceilings are at least 8 feet to avoid a cramped feeling. This flexible standard length works well for many casual and relaxed rooms.

96-Inch Length

At 8 feet long, these curtains sit right at or just below ceiling height in rooms with standard 8-foot ceilings. This can make them feel cluttered and overwhelming in smaller spaces. However, they shine in larger grander rooms with higher 10-12 foot ceilings. Here, they balance impressive tall ceilings and windows without shrinking the room. 96-inch panels also provide excellent light filtering for wide picture windows.

108-Inch Length

Truly floor-length curtains make a luxurious style statement. The 108-inch length works beautifully on tall dramatic windows to frame views. They create an elegant, polished look in formal living rooms and master bedrooms. However, their volume can overwhelm smaller cozier spaces. Sheer panels work better here for soft full coverage. Make sure your room's proportions suit long curtains before hanging.

Customization Beyond Standard Sizes

Standard lengths work well for traditional rectangular windows in average rooms. But what about uniquely sized windows or challenging room layouts? This is where custom curtains can save the day.

Ordering Custom Curtain Lengths

Many retailers offer made-to-order curtains tailored to your exact window measurements. Provide them with precise vertical heights and widths for a perfect custom fit. Expect to pay a bit more than standard sizes. However, the expensive alterations saved make it worthwhile for oddly shaped and sized windows.

Embellished Headers

Strategically embellished curtain headers shift the visual height and hems of generic panels. Add ruffles, contrasting border prints, or extra tiers of ruffles to adjust lengths. This customization tricks the eye where true adjusted length isn't possible.

Layering Sheer + Opaque Panels

Sheer curtains hung well above opaque bottom panels create an elegant layered effect. The sheer filters natural light while the opaque curtains below provide privacy and insulation as needed. This popular look eases size restrictions, allowing you to pick optimal lengths for both sheer and opaque tiers based on window height.

Specialty Curtain Styles and Lengths

Beyond basic panels, consider specialty curtain styles with built-in lengths that add functionality and visual interest:

Tab-Top Curtains

These timeless curtains feature tidy rows of tab tops instead of fussy curtain rings. Often made of natural linen or cotton, they have a casual, unfussy look. Standard tab-top panels hit midway down the window with lengths available up to 96 inches.

Grommet Curtains

Grommet curtains feature decorative grommets or rings across the top instead of standard rod pockets. This style looks especially modern and striking in bold solids. Find them in standard lengths from 84 to 108 inches for floor-to-ceiling looks.

Sheer Curtains

Breezy, sheer curtains filter light while allowing visibility. Light and airy sheers come in a wide range of lengths meant to hang well above the window frame. Cafe to extra long lengths help them suit all window heights.

Cafe Length

Cafe style curtains are short tiered curtains that hit just below window sills. Typically made of natural fabrics like lace or linen, they're casual and inviting. Their abbreviated lengths highlight window architecture without skimping on softness.

What's the best way to measure curtains?

Use a steel measuring tape to measure precisely from the top inner edge of the curtain across to the lower inner edge. Make sure to account for any embellishments or headers in your measurements.

How much extra length should I add to curtains?

Add 12 to 18 inches of length beyond the basic window frame height. This allows sufficient stacking room and just skims the floor.

Consider ordering custom-made curtains tailored to your exact measurements for hard-to-fit windows. Or try layering sheer and opaque panels to adjust to challenging heights.

Figuring out the optimal curtain lengths for your space doesn't need to be frustrating. Armed with the basic knowledge of standard sizes and customization tips in this guide, you can tackle odd window dimensions with confidence. Remember to start by carefully measuring each window, then weigh decorative style and functionality goals. With the wide range of standard and specialty lengths available, the perfect customized fit for your space awaits.