When it comes to home décor, window treatments can affect the feel of your entire room. A window valance is a short curtain or drapery responsible for covering only the upper part of the window. These are popular choice for those who want to conceal their curtain rod and hardware. You can even combine the valances with other window treatments to impart an attractive look to the windows.

Long gone are those days when people use to hang shirred, polyester valances that looked cheaper in your home. Nowadays, the valances are modern, tailored, and matches the décor of the entire house. From sheer pastels to silky floral in vibrant solids and bold patterns, you can avails valances for all tastes. Let us take a look at some modern valance ideas and what’s possible with this particular style of window treatment.

Modern Valance Ideas that Look Great

Scalloped valance

You can go for a scalloped valance in sophisticated prints for an elegant addition to your décor. You can also choose a plaid pattern that beautifully complements your country style décor. If you are looking better coverage of your windows and for better privacy or room darkening, you can pair your scalloped valance with panels in a coordinating shade or matching pattern. If you want more light to enter the room or need to make a squatty window appear taller, avoid using the panels and top your windows with a valance.

Scarf valance

A scarf valance creates elegant draping effects, as it has a curved portion at the top center and the ends flowing down on both sides of the window. These valance style is excellent for your living rooms. You need to drape your scarf curtains over a curtain rod. Alternatively, you can also install fancy swag holder to infuse a traditional appeal in the décor. Choose a scarf valance made from rich thick fabric for creating a regal look. You can also decorate a window with two intertwined sheers in soft, coordinating colors for a romantic addition to your living room.

Ascot valance

An ascot valance comes with one or more triangular edges with downward facing points often accented by decorative tassels. If your entire room’s décor features a solid color, choose an ascot valance in damask print to make the window more attractive. For furniture having bold patterns, opt for a valance in coordinating shade that imparts the right amount of color without making your room feel busy.

Cornice valance

A cornice valance or pelmet comes in stiff fabric to create a flat appearance. You can hang the valance on a separate curtain rod or mount on a board attaching the window frame. If you are looking for an easy installation, you can attach your valance to the board using Velcro. If you want to go for an uncluttered look, in your decor, chose a cornice valance with a charming floral pattern.

Tailored valance

Similar to a cornice valance, a tailored valance creates a flat, rectangular appearance. Tailored valances have no ruffles or gatherings. However, they are available in a variety of fabrics, colors and patterns. If you are choosing for a pair of tailored valance with curtain panels, choose fabrics having the same weight.

Balloon valance

As the name suggest, balloon valances come as puffed up with gathering or shirring that creates a unique and dramatic look. These valances are perfect if you have a Victorian-styled or a traditional décor in your living room. The valances come in lighter fabrics and give your windows a fuller appearance. If you have a traditional setting, opt for a balloon valance that is a few shades darker than your wall color for an elegant monochromatic effect.