Formal Front Room Window Treatment Ideas

Elegant Fabrics

• For a formal look in your front room, opt for curtains made from a sumptuous, elegant fabric. Velvet drapes add a rich, luxurious look to your living room or great room, and are an ideal option if you plan to decorate the space with an Old World or European style décor. Silk curtains can also provide a formal look, but they have a more delicate appearance. Consider embroidered silk curtains to add extra flair to your window treatments. You can also opt for chintz or damask curtains, which have a textured appearance that can give your front room a distinguished look.

Floor Length

• The length of your curtains or drapes can affect how formal they appear. Shorter curtains tend to have a casual, relaxed feel that doesn’t work well in a formal room. On the other hand, floor length drapes provide a dramatic look that is ideal for a formal front space. You can even choose curtains that are long enough to puddle on the floor to give your window treatments a grand look that gives the illusion of a taller ceiling.

Layers

• Layering two types of window treatments can dress up your windows so they have a more formal look. Choose a sumptuous fabric for the top layer such as velvet or silk, and place a sheer panel beneath it. You can tie the heavier curtains back during the day so the sheers allow natural light to filter into the room. However, after dark, you can close the curtains to give the room a more dramatic, formal look. Layered window treatments also allow you to use multiple colors or add a decorative pattern without overwhelming the space so your front room maintains an elegant, dignified look.

Embellishments

• Embellishing the window treatments in your front room is another way to give them a more formal look. If you plan to tie back your curtains or drapes, use braided or tasseled cording. You can also use swagged or ruffled valances to the top of your curtains to add visual interest. Try embellishing the curtains themselves by adding decorative fringe, beading or rosettes.