Window Covering Trends
Window coverings take their cue from the fast-changing fashion industry. They come in a vast variety of styles and fabrics. With so much to choose from, many people find it difficult to decide which window covering is best for them. If you think your window coverings are outdated, examine the trends in window coverings to find one that will update your look. Does this Spark an idea?
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Shades
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Shades have advanced far from the vinyl shades that some of us grew up with. Many shades made out of organic materials such as bamboo, reeds or grass-cloth blend well with many of the popular home-décor items and furniture on the market. For an updated version, opt for a Roman shade. Roman shades offer the look of a shade when let down, but easily covert into a neatly tucked valance when let up. The choice of the fabric determines on the formality of the covering. When choosing a fabric for a formal décor, consider luxurious material such as silk or damask. For a more casual décor, choose cotton or linen in a solid color. Another twist on classic roller shades is the new motorized shades. They come in soft fabrics that filter light without completely blocking the sun.
Blinds
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Designers still consider horizontal blinds a staple of the window covering industry. Wood blinds are often chosen because the paint and wood are customizable to match room designs. For a personalized addition, adorn the center strings with ribbons in a style and color to match your décor. For safety, when choosing blinds for a child's room, take advantage of new cordless blinds.
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Drapes
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Designers have always used silk for drapes, but a strong trend in window coverings uses silk fabrics in bold colors designed with clean lines. Environmentally conscious homeowners may choose drapes from fabrics dyed with non-toxic dyes. Allergy sufferers can find stain-, mildew- and mold-resistant fabrics designed to ease allergy symptoms. Many designers prefer to use gossamer sheers for their subtle iridescence, and because they're often embossed with trendy printed patterns. Follow a color trend in sheer draperies by choosing a color like chocolate brown or smoky gray.
Hardware
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Hardware forms an essential part of many popular window coverings. Interior designers often opt to incorporate opulence into a window covering by using the hardware as an accessory. Rods, finials and tiebacks in wood, metal and glass embellish window coverings. Thin and sleek black or nickel rods fit easily into today's design trends. Consider using non-standard hardware such as doorknobs and cup hooks to mount fabric panels to windows. Finials made of glass, or embellished with crystals, add a touch of glamor to a room.
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