Layering Drapes with Sheer Curtains: Top Ideas & Tips

 

From adding allure and depth to enhancing the functionality and versatility of your window treatments, layering drapes with sheer curtains has perks too compelling to refuse. Offering optimal light control and privacy in varied degrees, sheers and non-sheers together make for a wholesome window treatment. Aesthetically, the visual contrast arising from the positioning of delicate sheers against the heavier, often more structured look of opaque drapes, adds a delightful complexity to the space. 

If you too are looking to enhance the versatility of your window treatments or the visual appeal of your room by multi-layering your curtains, this blog is for you. Our in-house designers share their top tips and ideas for pairing drapes and sheer curtains while giving you a peek into The White Window’s 3000+ strong fabric collection where finding a complementary set of sheers and non-sheers will be a breeze. On to the best part - 

Choose the Most Befitting Order

 

Sheer curtains accord a distinct softness to the space, while non-sheer curtains, in comparison, manifest their colours and patterns more loudly. Each has a special offering which can be capitalised to the maximum when dressing a space. But, this will entail a careful consideration of the order of their arrangement. There are multiple ways of arranging non-sheer drapes with sheer curtains and we will delve into each of them -

Non-Sheers Drapes Over Sheer Curtains

 

In this layering combination, sheers are overtreated by non-sheer (or blackout) drapes. While sheers form the first line of defence against incoming light and provide semi-privacy during the day, the non-sheer layer in the front becomes more prominent when a higher level of light control, privacy or insulation is desired.

When the non-sheer, opaque curtains are drawn together, they define the aesthetic of the room and the sheer layer underneath virtually disappears. The colour or pattern of the sheer curtains only becomes part of the picture when the opaque layer is stacked to the sides or partially open. So, mounting curtains in this order facilitates changing the look of the room by the mere drawing of the drapes. 

Sheer Curtains Over Non-Sheer Drapes

 

In this arrangement, sheer curtains are mounted in front of non-sheer curtains, so that both layers are visible at all times. Although the order is reversed, the way the two layers function and benefit is the same - sheers soften the glare and provide semi-privacy, and non-sheers block light more substantially and offer complete privacy.

While the functional aspects do not change when sheer curtains are placed in front of the non-sheer layer, the aesthetic appeal is entirely different. The gauziness of the sheers becomes a statement feature of the room as it offers a whimsical edge to the drapery beneath. 

This style of layering curtains is especially beneficial if you want to reduce the visual impact of your non-sheers as the overlay of the translucent curtains significantly softens down the colours and patterns of the layer underneath.

The delicate beauty of sheer curtains rippled above non-sheer drapes is a lovely visual treat that can offer the decorative touch befitting dressy formal spaces and the daintiness that is key to decorating feminine spaces and kids’ rooms. 

Sheers Framed by Non-Sheers

 

In this combination, sheer and non-sheer curtains are mounted on one, same pole/ track, with sheers typically in the middle, framed by non-sheer drapes on both sides. 

Since it is not possible to ensure complete privacy and light control, this way of layering is recommended only for rooms where aesthetic aspirations override functional requirements. In living rooms and dining rooms, for example, where light is welcome throughout the day and strict privacy is usually not a necessity, this formula yields the best results. The sheers in the middle filter in light and air while the non-sheers act almost like a decorative layer offering visual contrast of colour, pattern and texture. 

For obvious reasons, this arrangement is not a great idea for nurseries, bedrooms and media rooms where room-darkening and/ or flawless privacy are a necessity as the central portion covered by sheers will not meet these needs. 

Besides this common way of pairing sheers and non-sheers on one pole, clients also consider another arrangement that can make a showstopper feature in its own right. In this arrangement, sheers and non-sheer panels are arranged in an alternating sequence on a pole, proffering a more dramatic effect to a room that is looking to room that is looking to create a focal point with luxurious excesses. 

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To summarise - when choosing which layer to put in front or whether both layers should hang side by side, always factor in the functional requirements of the room and the visual impression you desire to make. If being able to switch between two levels of light control can enhance the functionality of the room, opt for installing sheers and non-sheers on separate drapery poles enabling each layer to function independently. If the purpose is primarily aesthetic, then single-pole configurations can become equally strong candidates. 

Mix and Match Colours, Patterns & Textures

 

Besides offering the versatility to control light and privacy, layering drapes with sheer curtains presents an excellent opportunity to mix colours, patterns and finishes to foster visual interest. This is exactly what maximalists are looking for to be able to bring variety, eclecticism and punchy elements to make a bold visual statement. But, this is also the technique that aids minimalist-leaning decor styles to introduce tone-on-tone contrasts and visual depth. So, explore the options and choose the one that most suits your decor style - 

Mix Plains of Two Colours

 

Let both layers feature plain colours that define the palette of the room. Pick the most prominent colours from your overall palette or one of the accent hues and bring it on the non-sheer layer as it can carry the colour in all its richness. And pick a neutral-coloured sheer curtain that can complement this hue most fittingly. Like, if you’ve selected a yellow drapery like Equator, a potential partner could be our Clio sheer curtain’s ivory.

Or, if you like a little more indulgence in colour, pair two complementary or contrasting non-neutral colours. Such combinations can inject energy into the space, making them ideal for colour-filled homes and eclectic themes. Alternatively, you can also turn the pairing of two solids into a visually restive feat by pairing two low-contrast neutrals like cream Orlena and beige Sea Oats. 

Mix Plains & Patterns

 

The contrast generated from positioning a pattern with a complementing solid colour is a surefire way to attract attention. So, if your decor style relies on the use of patterns, layering solids with patterns when pairing sheer curtains with drapes is a compelling idea. 

Bring the pattern on the sheer layer as in the pairing of our Tiara Bits floral sheers with Barefoot Beach brown cotton drapes. Alternatively, let a patterned non-sheer like Waking Morn floral curtain find its accent hues mirrored in the plain greenish-grey of Fleeting Thought sheer curtains. 

From straightforward stripes to sinuous chinoiserie, bold abstract prints to demure florals, and countrified plaids to shimmery damasks, our collection of patterned drapes and sheers will leave you spoilt for choice. Similarly, you will find our plain drapes alluring with their texture and lustre, offering every colour in the rainbow, so finding a suitable pair for a patterned curtain becomes an effortless exercise.

Mix Textures

 

The composition and finish of a fabric bring subtle nuances that can make a big difference to the colours and patterns of a fabric. By juxtaposing two different textures, you can evoke interest, gently. Think of how linen’s slubs can vibe with velvet’s plush piles or Dupioni silk’s iridescence with the flat finish of a high-quality polyester. 

The visual impact of texture can be best understood in extremely minimalist settings where the curtains embrace a single tone. If you’ve chosen a quiet neutral like grey, consider pairing up Ash Spray’s herringbone weave with Sofora’s checkered texture. This textural variation will save the space from being one note even without bringing in another colour. 

Even when colour variation is introduced, texture can serve a tiny dose of pizzazz on a plain drapery and can fulfil the role of a pattern. Consider the pairing of Light Drizzle drapes embossed with an abstract pattern and the brindled white sheer Abalone Sea, for example. The contrast arising from the pairing of a dainty texture with a graphic crimped finish offers a silent allure most fitting to modern sophisticated spaces. 

Make Hardware Considerations

 

When layering two sets of curtains, one area that needs very thoughtful consideration is the hardware. Depending on the desired arrangement and budget, one of the following hardware combinations will typically suit most settings: 

• SINGLE POLE: A single drapery pole will do the job when hanging sheer curtains with drapes side by side. Make sure that the pole is heavy enough to carry the weight of the dual treatment.
• DOUBLE POLES: For layering sheer and non-sheer curtains one behind the other, use double drapery poles that host two separate poles within one bracket. This arrangement will allow you to operate the sheer and non-sheer layers separately, though the accessibility to the top layer will be more than that of the layer at the back. So, it is advisable to put the most operated layer on the front.
• MULTIPLE POLES: Here, two single, standalone poles are mounted at varied heights. As the sheers and non-sheers are on two different poles, it is possible to operate each layer separately. This arrangement is generally utilised for oversized windows or doors where sheer curtains are mounted within the window frame and the non-sheer curtains are hung from the ceiling. 

Choose Apt Heading Styles for Each Layer

 

The heading style refers to the design and construction of the top portion of the curtains that holds the pleats and attaches to the pole/ track. It has a significant role in defining both the visual appeal and the operational ease of the curtains. We invite you to read about each of our heading styles in detail in our Drapery Heading Style Guide, however, we’ll give you some cues to discern the most befitting styles for each layer right away.

Sheer curtains perform better at ensuring privacy when they fully cover the window but that can be challenging on windy days given their lightweight, and tendency to glide too easily. So, ordering them as back tab tops or rod pocket tops that do not tend to glide as easily on the pole can be very helpful in ensuring that the curtains stay intact in their position.

Non-sheer curtains, on the other hand, are usually more resourceful if they can ply on the drapery pole easily as they are typically operated more. Hence, they do better with heading styles like pinch pleats, grommet tops and flat panel tops that use rings/ clips/ grommets, enabling a smooth hassle-free glide on the pole.

So, make an assessment of how you anticipate each layer of the curtain to be used and choose the heading style that facilitates that style of operation better. For example, your sheer curtains might be back tab tops and non-sheers may be flat panel tops. Although they look different, they fulfil the functional requirements perfectly. Alternatively, you can get both curtains done in the same heading style if you want to create a uniform visual appeal. The decision of the heading style will entirely depend on your functional priorities and personal aesthetic leanings. 

Final Words on Layering Drapes with Sheer Curtains

 

Layering drapes with sheers is the most trusted formula for dual functionality and doubled elegance, endorsed by designers and loved by homeowners. Where non-sheer drapes as standalone treatments trade off light for privacy, layering them with sheer curtains enables you to welcome light at your terms. Besides, layering offers the aesthetic potential to mix patterns, colours and textures, to add more allure and depth to your space - an opportunity that a decor enthusiast would never want to miss. 

So, whether you want to provide daytime privacy in your bedroom or add sumptuous beauty to your living room, pair your drapes with sheer curtains drawing from the ideas and tips shared in this blog. Start meandering through The White Window’s catalogues to find the star duo that lets you enjoy the view, the warm sunlight and the fresh air while ensuring privacy around the clock. Happy shopping!