In daily life, curtains are indispensable. They’re not just for privacy and blocking light; they can also be the finishing touch that highlights your personality and taste.
So, how to choose the perfect curtains for your living room? This article provides a comprehensive guide. We’ll explore material, size, and style in detail. We hope it sparks inspiration for your home decor.
In this Article
- 01 Functions of Curtains
- 02 The Right Fabric Type
- 03 Styling Your Curtains
- 04 Tips
- 05 FAQ

Functions of Curtains
Different functions call for different choices. First, you need to clarify the main function of your living room curtains. If you’re purely after their aesthetics, then focus on their color, pattern, and style. But if you’re looking for features like blackout and breathability, then the material is key.
The Right Fabric Type
Different fabric types have their own pros and cons. Make your choice based on your needs. Here are some common curtain materials and their characteristics.
COTTON |
|
Pros |
Cons |
breathable and comfortable |
easy to shrink or fade over time without care |
easy to clean |
need to be properly lined for desired shape |
ideal for hot days |
Highly absorbent |

POLYESTER |
|
Pros |
Cons |
sturdy and stable |
stiff |
ideal for high-traffic areas |
not as breathable as cotton |
long-lasting |
not for kitchen (flammable and high absorption of odors) |
not easy to wrinkle or shrink |
|
affordable |
|
block ultraviolet rays |
|

VELVET |
|
Pros |
Cons |
luxurious |
difficult to clean |
sound insulation |
expensive |
cozy and warm |
not the best choice for rooms that get a lot of direct sunlight |

LINEN |
|
Pros |
Cons |
highly breathable |
Stiff; short life span |
ideal for summer months or rooms that receive abundant natural light |
expensive |
a slightly rough, natural feel |
more maintenance needed |
light filtering |
not suitable for young children or pets
|

SILK |
|
Pros |
Cons |
the epitome of luxury |
high maintenance |
incredibly soft and smooth |
expensive |
light transmission |
|

LACE |
|
Pros |
Cons |
block the glare; soften the sunlight |
require careful handling and maintenance |
breathable |
limited privacy |
elegant and stylish |
|
temperature control; ideal for summer months
|
|

Styling Your Curtains
Color: If your living room already has a dominant color scheme, it is better to choose curtains in the same color family for a cohesive look. If, however, you'd like to add a fresh touch, consider selecting a bright color to create a striking contrast. In addition, if your living room lacks natural light, pick light-colored curtains to brighten up the space and make it a more open and airy place.
Texture and Pattern: Looking for a comfy curtain? Silk is a top pick. If romance and intricate texture are your style, go for a lace curtain. For patterns, go with solid colors for a minimalist look or choose floral designs to add a pop of vitality. Only carefully selected curtains can blend seamlessly into your home.
Size:
Width
First, measure the width of your window. Then, extend each side by 4-6 inches to allow for proper draping and movement. This gives you the final result. Based on the window size, functionality, and space, you can choose between single or double - panel curtains.
Length:
The choice of length depends on your needs. For a bright and airy atmosphere, pick window-length curtains, which end at or just above the window sill. If privacy and light blocking are priorities, flooring curtains are a better choice:
Floating: to create a streamlined look by leaving no more than 1 cm of space between the curtain and the floor; to prevent dust from gathering; avoid dirt and moisture issues.
Touching: adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to your space; lightly touching the floor; enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Pooling: with 4-6 inches of fabric gathered at the bottom; easy to accumulate dust; high maintenance to keep your living space clean; pose a tripping hazard; formal atmosphere.
Based on your ideal dimensions, free to choose ready-made curtains for convenience or custom ones for a tailored look.
Tips:
Are you on a tight budget?
If so, consider investing in premium curtains for the most eye-catching window. For the others, you can set lower requirements. But make sure the curtain styles are harmonious. It’s advisable to choose curtains in the same style, but with different patterns.
Maintenance
If so, consider investing in premium curtains for the most eye-catching window. For the others, you can set lower requirements. But make sure the curtain styles are harmonious. It’s advisable to choose curtains in the same style, but with different patterns.
Cotton and Linen Curtains: Hand-wash with cold water using a gentle detergent every 6-12 months; stretch or iron the fabric after washing to remove wrinkles;
Polyester Curtains: machine washable with a mild detergent; avoid direct sunlight when drying on the reverse side;
Velvet Curtains: hand-wash gently with a mild detergent every 12-24 months; avoid machine washing or vigorous scrubbing; lay flat to dry;
Silk Curtains: professional dry cleaning recommended; gently press and rinse if hand-wash is necessary;
Lace Curtains: hand wash recommended; use a mild detergent; air
FAQs
Q1: What should your curtains match in the living room?
First, accurate size. The ideal length and width are crucial, affecting both appearance and function. Second, curtains we choose should match the living room’s overall style. When adding them to the existing layout, enhance the space without disrupting the current atmosphere. Pay attention to color and style to add a touch of charm to the living room.
Q2: What type of curtains are best for a living room?
Curtains of different types vary in texture and function. Choose the ideal one based on your needs and budget. If texture is your top concern, go for silk curtains.
Q3: Should curtains be darker or lighter than walls?
Different colors create different looks. The specific choice depends on your personal preferences and lighting needs. Darker curtains block more natural light and UV rays, while lighter ones create a warmer feel.
Q4: How to pick curtain color?
In general, pick colors that match or complement your living room’s overall style. For color saturation, it can be decided based on the room’s lighting for better light regulation. In addition, it is up to the colors of other home items in the living room for a harmonious atmosphere.
About Us

Merry Casa offers all kinds of home decor that go beyond decoration — each piece is a part of daily life, a storyteller, and a step toward your dream home.