Although we did see many variations of panels at the Las Vegas Window Fashion show, we also saw ways to make valances soften your window.  Often valances are used with blinds and shades underneath, but they also could be used with drapery panels on the side.

But detailing the bottom of a valance or cornice softens the look and can simply add that much needed accent.  Adding banding to the bottom hem then outlining it with cording and trim can change the look to elegant if used with a Hunter Douglas Silhouette shade.

Or pleating a stripe valance with the pleats can be a simple way to accent the pattern of the fabric without the cost of trim.

Jabots can be added on top of the center of the valance or the jabots can be added underneath the center of the valance.  Both are appropriate but the location of the jabot can make the treatment look taller or shorter.

Details, details.

Related posts:

1. Pattern Details 2011
2. Pleat Details for 2011
3. Window Fashions 2011

Looking for two easy ways to update your draperies?  Change the rods or add trim.  These are the biggest design features you see in new fabric window treatments. 

Traditionally draperies were hung on white traverse rods or brass decorative rods.  Updating to iron rods or even wood rods can make a big difference.  Many homes are getting new light fixtures or ceiling fans that come in the bronze or rusted iron color and we can coordinate the rods for draperies or stationary panels in these same colors.   And as a bonus you have a wide selection of finials – those pieces on the end of the rods – from which to choose.  I would look around your room and repeat a feature I would  find in your room with the finial. 

Another good way to update draperies is to add trim.  We are constantly getting in new samples of trim – beads, fringes, tassels, banding, and brush fringes.  These can easily be added down the center front of the panels, across the hem (if furniture is not in front of the window impeding the view of the trim), or both.  These trims come in solid colors or combinations of colors. 

Both of these ideas will help accent your windows and will give your room a 2010 look without the expense of starting over. 

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Related posts:

1. Window Fashions from Ho-Hum to Spectacular
2. Window Fashions 2011
3. Drapery Panels