A fresh and often surprising way to introduce color and pattern into a room is with curtain panels. Patterned curtains are an easy, flexible update — swap them seasonally or move them between rooms to refresh your space. While choosing a bolder pattern or color palette can feel risky, the payoff is worth it: a striking curtain can enliven a room and prevent it from feeling dull.
I’ve owned the crewel-embroidered panels pictured above for years, first in my old office and now in my current one. They’re even more lovely in person. I purchased them nearly ten years ago and still adore them, though that exact style is no longer available. Below I’ve gathered similar options and ideas to help you achieve the same lively look.
The secret to making a bold pattern work is to let it be the focal point. Base the room’s color palette on the curtain pattern and choose other textiles with smaller-scale, complementary patterns so they don’t compete for attention. Balance is key: let the curtain lead, and keep the supporting patterns understated.
If you’re hesitant about an all-out pattern, start with something slightly bolder than a plain panel — a simple stripe, a soft plaid, or a subtle floral can be just enough. You can also opt for a dramatic pattern rendered in a muted color palette for a more restrained effect. I rotate patterned curtains in my home to update a room’s style or reflect the season, and even small changes make a big difference.
Enjoy experimenting!
My Floral Bird Curtains:
Get the Look:
My Striped Pom Tassel Trim Curtains:
Get the Look:
My exact navy striped pom pom trim curtains can be found here.
My Navy Owl Curtains:
Get the Look:
My Ikat Curtains:
Get the Look:
My Hallway Striped Pom Pom Trim Curtains:
Click here for the above curtain source // Inspiration for Curtains on Doorways // Striped Runner Rug Source
More curtains:
Browse the thumbnails below to see more curtain styles I love.
– Want more decorating advice? Visit the “How to Decorate” page on my site for inspiration by topic and room.
– Looking for more sources from my home or my latest decor finds? Check out my shop page for curated favorites.
