What is the difference between curtains and draperies?
Though many people think that curtains and draperies are the same thing they are in fact very different. Curtains are primarily used as window coverings. They are made from light fabrics like sheers. They are rather casual and are usually window length but they could also be floor length. Since their main purpose is covering windows, curtains are almost always operable. Draperies, on the other hand, are made from heavier fabrics and are usually lined. They are almost always floor length, which makes them rather formal. Since they are mainly used for decorative purposes, draperies are not always operable. Curtains can be combined with draperies on one window with the curtain as the window covering and the drapery as the decoration. This combination can also be topped with a valance. Visit our photo gallery to see more pictures of curtains and draperies.