Curtain Style Guide

Find the Right Heading Style for Your Curtains

The curtain heading style doesn’t just influence how your curtains hang — it changes the entire look of your room. Explore the most popular styles and their key features to choose the perfect fit for your home.


🪟 1. Eyelet Curtains

Modern & Minimal

  • Metal rings (eyelets) are punched into the fabric and slide directly onto the pole.

  • Best For: Contemporary rooms

  • Works With: Curtain poles only

  • Fullness: Medium (1.5–2x the pole width)

  • Pros: Easy to hang, smooth gliding

  • Cons: Can’t be used with curtain tracks


🧵 2. Pencil Pleat Curtains

Classic & Versatile

  • Narrow, tightly gathered folds at the top; fits both poles and tracks.

  • Best For: Traditional or formal spaces

  • Works With: Poles or tracks (hooks required)

  • Fullness: Adjustable with heading tape

  • Pros: Flexible fit, suits most window types

  • Cons: Slightly more effort to gather evenly


🪶 3. Pinch Pleat Curtains

Tailored & Elegant

  • Sewn-in pleats (double or triple) for a structured, luxurious look.

  • Best For: Formal dining rooms, lounges, bedrooms

  • Works With: Poles or tracks (with hooks)

  • Fullness: More gathered (2–2.5x the track width)

  • Pros: Neat, consistent folds

  • Cons: Less adjustable, made to exact width


🔗 4. Wave Curtains

Soft & Flowing

  • Uses special wave tape and gliders for smooth, uniform waves.

  • Best For: Modern interiors and large windows

  • Works With: Wave-compatible curtain tracks

  • Fullness: Uniform wave look

  • Pros: Sleek and contemporary

  • Cons: Requires specialist track system


🎀 5. Tab Top / Tie Top Curtains

Casual & Decorative

  • Fabric loops or ties attach directly to the pole.

  • Best For: Light fabrics, children’s rooms, relaxed spaces

  • Works With: Poles only

  • Fullness: Light gather

  • Pros: Easy to hang, stylish details

  • Cons: Less practical for daily opening and closing


🧺 Quick Tips:

  • For frequent use, choose easy-glide styles like eyelet or wave.

  • For a luxurious finish, go for pinch pleats.

  • For flexible adjustment, pencil pleats are the safest choice.

Need help choosing the best style for your home?
📞 Call us on [0800 772 0367]
📧 Email: [info@curtainsuk.com]