Windows in every home are covered with an arrangement referred to as drapes or curtains. So commonplace is the use of these words that we hardly pause and think for a minute if there is any difference between a curtain and drape. If we talk about function, traditionally curtains and drapes have been used to give people control over how much sunlight they want in their room or how much privacy is needed. They are of course very beautiful to look at and add to the décor of the place they are used. Let us take a closer look and find out if there are any differences between drapes and curtains.
Drapes
Drapes are fabrics that are ornate and are used for decorative purposes. Though they serve the basic purpose of keeping out light from the room (in fact, they shut out light completely when in place), they are there to enhance the beauty or the décor of the place. These are actually curtains that drape the window completely. The use of glass panes in windows led to the use of drapes that could shut off light for the purpose of privacy.
Drapes have traditionally been made of heavy, ornate fabrics that create lines in the curtain. These fabrics do not sway in windy conditions and look gracious and add to the décor of the room. For a formal look, there is nothing better than drapes. There is a front and a back side in the case of drapes and it cannot be used from the back side.
Curtains
Curtain is a very common word and understood all over the world as a loose fabric hung from rods over windows. These fabrics are not heavy and ornate and, as such, they are not able to shut out light completely. Curtains do not have lines and do not cover the entire length of the window. They are mostly used in a casual or semi-formal fashion and not considered good for the sole purpose of privacy. One characteristic of curtains is that the fabric is the same from both sides, and there is no front and back.
What is the difference between Drapes and Curtains?
• Curtains are light weight and even transparent while drapes are heavy and ornate
• Curtains are used casually while drapes are used for a more formal look
• Curtains are unlined while drapes are ornate and have lines
• Drapes have the ability to shut off light completely while curtains are only able to control the amount of light
• The top of the drapes is often hidden by wooden pelmets
• Drapes are better if privacy is the sole concern
Drapes look luxurious and ornate while curtains are casual