When it comes to home decor, curtains do much more than provide privacy and light control; they add style, texture, and dimension to a space. Choosing the right curtain length is key to achieving the perfect look for your room, and understanding your options can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore various curtain length styles and provide tips to help you decide which works best for your home.

Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains: Elevate Your Space

Floor-to-ceiling curtains are a classic choice for most homes. They create a sense of grandeur by drawing the eye upward, making ceilings appear taller and rooms feel more spacious. Whether you have high ceilings or standard-height rooms, long curtains can transform your space. Within this category, there are three main hem types to consider: hover (or the kiss), break, and puddle.

Hover or ‘The Kiss’

Curtains that “hover” leave a small gap (around 10mm to 15mm) between the hem and the floor—just enough to slide a pencil underneath. This subtle gap creates a neat and tailored appearance while keeping your curtains practical. They won’t gather dust, dirt, or pet hair, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms. Hovering curtains also make opening and closing effortless, maintaining their pristine look over time.

Break

A “break” hem offers a more sophisticated, tailored look. Inspired by the way a man’s trousers rest gently on his shoes, break curtains feature a slight fold or bend at the hem. This is achieved by adding just an inch (or less) of extra fabric. Depending on your fabric and header choices, break curtains can range from casual (with lightweight linens) to formal (with structured pleated headers). Break curtains are perfect for spaces with an elegant vibe, such as bedrooms or formal dining rooms, where foot traffic is minimal.

Puddle

For a dramatic and luxurious statement, consider puddle curtains. These extend several inches onto the floor, creating a glamorous and romantic pooling effect.

There are three puddle styles to choose from:

Minimal Puddle: Adds 1-3 inches of extra fabric for a soft, cosy look.
Moderate Puddle: Extends 3-6 inches for a formal and elegant feel.
Opulent Puddle: Features 6-8 inches of extra fabric, evoking the splendour of a wedding gown.

Puddle curtains are best suited for low-traffic areas like formal dining rooms, as they tend to collect dust and pet hair. For the best results, opt for light, flowing fabrics like sheer linen for a relaxed feel or silk for a grand, polished appearance.

Minimal Puddle: Emily Bond by Ashley Wilde fabric

Short Curtains: Practical and Charming

Short curtains are less common but can be the right choice in certain situations. They’re particularly useful for windows above radiators, kitchen counters, or in casual spaces like breakfast nooks. There are two main types of short curtains:

Windowsill Curtains

As the name suggests, these curtains end exactly at the windowsill. They are ideal for small spaces, kitchens, or bay windows, where longer curtains might feel out of place.

Apron Curtains

Apron curtains extend 4-6 inches below the windowsill, offering a more casual and relaxed look. They’re perfect for spaces where functionality and simplicity are key, such as breakfast nooks or rooms with radiators under the windows.

Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Fit with Westbrook Interiors

Choosing the right curtain length can transform the look and feel of your home. Whether you prefer the grandeur of floor-to-ceiling curtains or the practicality of short styles, your choice will depend on your room’s purpose, style, and functional needs.

At Westbrook Interiors, we’re here to help you find the perfect curtains for your space. From bespoke designs to expert advice, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today or visit our showroom in Alton to explore our stunning range of fabrics and made-to-measure options. Let’s create a home you’ll love!

Learn more

The Ultimate Guide to Curtain Lengths: How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Home