Valances & Café Curtains: How to Measure, Where to Use Them, and Inspiring Ideas

If you're looking to add a little charm and character to your windows without committing to full drapes or blinds, valances and café curtains are the perfect solution. These classic window treatments are easy to install, surprisingly versatile, and ideal for letting in just the right amount of light while still maintaining some privacy. Whether you’re going for cozy cottage vibes in your kitchen or a tailored touch in your laundry room, this guide will show you exactly how to measure, where to use them, and how to style them to suit your space.

What Are Valances and Café Curtains?

Valances are decorative fabric treatments that cover just the upper portion of a window. They add a finished, stylish look and are often used to conceal curtain rods or blinds.

Café curtains cover only the lower half of a window, usually hung from a rod placed halfway down the frame. Originally popularized in French bistros (hence the name), they offer privacy while still allowing plenty of natural light.

Both can be used alone or together, depending on the desired look and function. Popular styles include ruffled, tailored, box pleat, scalloped, and rod-pocket varieties.

How to Measure for Valances and Café Curtains

Getting the measurements right is key to achieving a polished look.

Measuring for Valances:

1. Measure the window width: Include the frame. For fullness, multiply by 1.5 to 2 depending on fabric and design.

2. Determine the length: Standard valance lengths range from 10 to 18 inches. For taller ceilings or larger windows, go longer.

3. Mounting placement: Decide if you want to mount above the window frame for added height or directly on it.

Measuring for Café Curtains:

1. Measure the window width: Like valances, multiply by 1.5 to 2 for desired fullness.

2. Choose the rod height: Typically halfway down the window or slightly lower.

3. Measure drop length: From rod to desired end point, usually the window sill or just above.

Tip: Always use a steel measuring tape and double-check before ordering.

Where to Use Them

Valances and café curtains work beautifully in:

• Kitchens: Add coziness and charm while letting in morning light.

• Bathrooms: Perfect for privacy without blocking natural light.

• Breakfast Nooks: Enhances relaxed, airy atmosphere.

• Mudrooms & Laundry Rooms: Softens utilitarian spaces with minimal fuss.

• Craft Rooms or Nurseries: Adds softness and a tailored touch to casual areas.

They also suit homes with farmhouse, cottage, coastal, vintage, or traditional aesthetics.

Styling Tips & Inspiring Examples

• Layering: Pair café curtains with a valance or Roman shade for a layered, designer look.

• Fabric Choices: Use linen or cotton for casual spaces; silk or velvet for formal rooms.

• Patterns vs. Solids: Stripes and florals evoke a country or coastal vibe; solids feel crisp and modern.

• Seasonal Swaps: Change up with the seasons—light cottons for spring/summer, heavier textures for fall/winter.

Examples:

• A crisp white café curtain with a gingham valance in a country kitchen.

• Neutral linen valance in a bathroom with a bamboo shade underneath.

• Bright floral café curtains in a sunroom or craft space.

Final Thoughts

Valances and café curtains offer a stylish, budget-friendly way to update your windows. They’re easy to measure, install, and customize for any space. Whether you're aiming for quaint and cozy or sleek and tailored, there's a combination that will suit your home perfectly.

Explore our handcrafted collection of valances and café curtains, proudly made in the USA by Betsie & Co.