What Type of Window Covering Should You Use for Bow Windows?

Formal Draperies

• If you prefer a traditional, formal decorating scheme, consider covering your bow window with formal draperies. While it may seem difficult to make conventional draperies conform to a curved wall of windows, it is actually quite easy, thanks to flexible traverse drapery rods that bend to precisely fit the bank of windows. Traverse rods are fitted with a system of cords and pulleys that draw your drapes open and closed. In a formal room you can go as elaborate as you like. Some fabrics to consider are silk taffeta, brocade, velvet, chiffon and lace. Keep your draperies simple if you like, or dress them up with swagged valances, fringe, tassels and pleats.

Simple Panels

• If you prefer simpler, more casual decor, consider curtain panels. Curtain panels hang on standard curtain rods without pulleys and cords. Bow-shaped curtain rods are typically not sold "off the rack" in mass merchandise stores or home centers, so you may need to place a special order or have one custom-made. Once you have your rods, there are a few options for hanging your panels. Consider hanging two wide panels that meet in the middle or hanging narrower panels, one over each section of the window.

  In general, curtain panels are more casual than pleated draperies. However, panels can be dressed up or down depending upon the fabric and trim choices you make. For a quite casual home, consider untrimmed cotton duck, sheeting or textured linen. If you'd like to give them a dressier appearance, try raw silk, toile, chintz or a linen/silk blend, and add a bit of fringe or a small ruffle at the hem.

Valances

• Valances cover only the top portion of a window and therefore are not a workable option for those who need privacy. However, if you have an especially breathtaking view or live in a secluded location, valances are a smart way to add the softness and color of fabric to your room without concealing your lovely view. Chiffon scarf valances are soft and romantic, while pleated valances have a neat, tailored appearance. Just a few additional options include swagged, ruffled and balloon valances.

Shades or Blinds

• Shades or blinds offer a more tailored look than the flowing fabric of curtains or draperies. Shades are typically made of cloth and draw up and down, while blinds are made of wooden slats that draw up and down but also tilt open and closed, giving you more options for privacy and light control. Because blinds and shades are typically straight and not curved, they will leave a gap at the top when hung across a curved window.

Shutters

• With their hard wooden surface and horizontal lines, shutters add structure and architectural interest to your room. Shutters are similar to wood blinds but swing open and closed for privacy. Additionally, shutters have slats that can be tilted for even greater privacy and light control. Shutters are typically custom-made to fit a particular window and can be stained or painted any color you desire.