There are a few words in the design lexicon that always seem to stump people. Whether its the age-old debate between sofa and couch (they are not the same!) or, in this case, drapes and curtains, it can be hard to nail down exactly what the difference is and why it (may or may not) matter. Have no fear, Im here to help. As a design editor, I deal with these terms regularly. Below, youll find everything you need to know about drapes and curtains, what the real difference is, where blinds fit into the equation, which style may work best for your home, and all the things you need to consider before purchasing. Jump to:Related StoriesDrapes vs. Curtains: Whats the Difference? Read McKendree for Country LivingGreen-and-white patterned curtains keep this coastal cottage bedroom designed by Marynn Udvarhelyi feeling fresh and breezy.The terms drapes and curtains are very often used interchangeably when referring to fabric window treatments, but in reality, they are distinctly differentand it all comes down to formality and construction. Drapes are often made-to-measure for specific windows and crafted from higher-end designer-exclusive fabrics, also known as to the trade fabrics. These window coverings are typically thickerthink lush velvet or thick woven cottonsand lined for enhanced light-blocking capabilities. Drapes are almost always more formal than curtains. Curtains are breezierespecially sheer curtainsas they arent typically lined in the same manner as drapes. The fabrics used in their construction are also generally not as heavy-duty as those found in drapes. While curtains can be made-to-order, they are often prefabricated in standard lengths and widths. For example, you can buy curtains at popular retailers (Anthropologie, Target, etc.), but not drapesthough sometimes those retailers include drapes in their category headers as a way to make sure consumers searching for any type of window treatment online are seeing their pieces. (As if it wasnt confusing enough!) What About Blinds or Shades? Read McKendreeDesigner Katie Rosenfeld layered wood shades and block-print drapes in this crisp, yet casual Maine beach house. You may ask yourself: Do blinds fit into all of this? Yes, they do! Before we get into that, though, lets quickly address the difference between blinds and shades. Blinds are comprised of single pieces of material (like strips of wood) strung together that tilt to block out light. Shades, on the other hand, are typically made of one piece of material (either yardage of fabric or natural materials tightly woven together into a single piece) that you can raise or lower as desired. Blinds and shades both look great on their own, but they can also be used for layering. You can technically pair both with drapes and curtains, but designers often prefer bamboo or woven wood shades for added visual texture and contrast. (I have these woven wood shades in my home and absolutely adore them. They are customizable and ship via Amazon!) Blinds and shutters, another popular louvered light-blocker that are usually wood, typically nestle neatly within the window frame, so they shouldnt cause an issue for your fabric window coverings (provided you have deep enough window casing). Shades can also nestle within the window, but can also hang outside and have a more pronounced face. Are Curtains or Drapes Better for My Home?Marta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingClassic ticking stripe curtains add humble country charm to this lake house living room.Like many design rules, choosing the best window treatments for your room comes down to personal preference. If youre torn between the two and cost is not a concern (well get more into costs below), the best rule of thumb is to weigh these two factors: style and light filtration. Drapes are more refined due to the structured look provided by the thicker, heavier fabrics used to make them. (Some designers even add drapery weights to maintain a prim and proper appearance.) Drapes also typically filter more light because of their heavier construction. If you live in a classic Colonial-style home or one filled with more traditional elements, opt for drapes. Curtains, on the other hand, are lighter and breezier, making them a more popular choice for the casual living found in farmhouses and cottages. Important Things to Consider Matthew KisidayThe drapes in this West Virginia bunk room designed by Kendall Rabun are crafted of Quadrille Fabrics "Argentine."CostRegardless of what style you choose, window treatments can be found at various price points. In general, curtains are typically less expensive than drapes because of the type and amount of fabric used. Drapes may also feature additional design details that increase their cost, such as pleating, custom header types (the way the curtain looks and functions at the top), or specialized trims. Brands like Pepper Home and Everhem have revolutionized the window treatment game, offering custom curtains with stylish fabric options at direct-to-consumer prices. If you love the more formal look of drapes but they arent in your budget, check out local or online estate sales for vintage drapery panels that might work in your home. Just keep your window measurements handy! Or, you can even buy premade curtains, then add your own DIY trim or embellishment. Light FiltrationAs weve mentioned, drapes are typically better at darkening a room than curtains. Drapes will provide more light filtration, so if thats a priority for you, go for drapes or budget-friendly blackout curtains. If you prefer some light peeking through, opt for curtains. And, remember, you can always pair your curtains with a shade for extra darkness. They even make blackout shades that look a lot better than those vinyl roller shades of the past.PlacementDesigners might say that certain rooms benefit from certain types of window treatments, but in reality its up to you to decide what works within your budget and your style preference. Bedrooms benefit from the darkness of drapes but may feel heavy or stuffy if the rest of your furnishings are more casual or classically farmhouse. Formal spaces, such as living and dining rooms, are perfect for drapes. Communal gathering areas, like the kitchen or family room, are great for curtains. And, rooms where you want even more light but still desire the layered look window coverings givethink powder or laundry roomsare the perfect place for sheer or caf curtains. RELATED:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything youve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When shes not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.