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One of the easiest ways to completely transform a room is by switching out your curtains. It’s a small change that makes a big impact — and recently, I decided to put two of my favorite styles to the test. For years, I’ve had my go-to light linen pinch pleat curtains from Amazon, but I was curious what my living room might look like with a darker, patterned option for fall. So, I tried both!
Let’s talk through the pros and cons of each so you can decide which team you’re on: dark or light options.
Switching out curtains can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home and can reflect your personal style. For instance, consider how different colors and patterns can affect your mood: light colors often create a sense of calm and openness, while darker shades can evoke warmth and intimacy. When selecting curtains, think about how they’ll interact with your existing decor, whether it’s minimalist, contemporary, or traditional. Additionally, the material of the curtains plays a crucial role — for instance, heavier fabrics can block out light and provide insulation, while lighter fabrics can allow natural light to filter through.
Team Light Curtains: Classic & Versatile
For years, my home has been styled with the classic Amazon pinch pleat linen curtains in a soft, neutral shade. These are lightweight, airy, and pair beautifully with almost any furniture style. I love that they brighten the room, keep things feeling open, and match seamlessly with the changing seasons.
Light options come in a variety of materials and styles. From sheer cotton to linen blends, they can be both functional and fashionable. One popular option is the sheer treatment, which allows for ample light while still offering some degree of privacy. Another material to consider is polyester, which is durable and easy to maintain. Pairing light selections with light-colored blinds can also enhance the airy feel of your space, contributing to a serene atmosphere.
Light curtains are especially great if you:
- Want a versatile option that works year-round
- Love a bright, classic look
- Prefer something timeless that can move with you through different decor styles
These are truly my forever recommendation. I have them on multiple windows, and they’ve never let me down.
Team Dark Curtains: Bold & Cozy for Fall
This year, I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and try something new — a wine-colored pinch pleat curtain with a subtle pattern. Instantly, the mood of the room changed. The dark curtains added depth, warmth, and the kind of coziness that feels perfect for fall and winter decorating.
Dark curtains are perfect if you:
Moreover, light options are perfect for smaller rooms as they can create an illusion of space, making the room appear larger and more open. Consider layering light selections with heavier drapes to offer versatility in light control throughout the day. This combination can also add depth and texture to your window treatment, creating a more visually appealing look.
When it comes to dark selections, the choices are equally vast. Fabrics like velvet or heavy twill are popular for their luxurious feel and ability to effectively block out light. This can be particularly beneficial in bedrooms or home theaters where darkness is essential. Additionally, the use of dark colors can also make a room feel more intimate and inviting. Consider adding blackout liners to your dark options for even greater light control and energy efficiency, especially during the colder months.
- Want to add drama and richness to a space
- Are craving something seasonal and cozy
- Love creating a moody, layered look
The darker pattern also felt like such a fun refresh after years of sticking to neutrals. It’s a bold swap, but sometimes that’s exactly what your space needs.
So, Which Is Better?
The selection of patterns in dark options can also be a fun way to express your style. From geometric designs to floral motifs, the right pattern can enhance the overall decor of your home. Don’t hesitate to mix and match patterns — a bold floral dark selection can beautifully contrast with lighter, more subdued patterns in your existing decor.
The truth is — you really can’t go wrong with either. Light options are timeless and practical, while dark selections feel bold and seasonally cozy. It all depends on the look you’re going for and how you want your space to feel.
If you’re someone who loves to switch things up with the seasons (like I do!), it might be worth investing in both. Keep the light linen options as your everyday go-to, and pull out the darker, patterned ones when fall rolls around.
Shop My Curtain Picks
Ultimately, selecting between light and dark options can come down to personal preference, but considering the atmosphere you wish to create is essential. Think about how you want the room to feel at different times of the day. Soft, natural light streaming through light treatments can be invigorating in the morning, while dark selections can set a cozy, relaxed mood in the evening. This duality allows you to change the mood of your space simply by altering your window treatments.
Here are the exact Amazon curtains I tested in my home:
- [Amazon Pinch Pleat Linen Curtains – Light Neutral] (affiliate link)
- [Amazon Pinch Pleat Curtains – Wine with Pattern] (affiliate link)
Both are budget-friendly, beautiful, and truly elevate a space without the cost of a full makeover.
Final Thoughts:
Swapping out curtains is such an underrated design trick. Whether you’re on team light or team dark, the right window treatments can instantly change the mood of your room and make your home feel refreshed for the season.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the maintenance of your curtains. Light curtains may require more frequent washing due to visible dust and stains, whereas dark curtains might hide dirt better but can fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight. Always check the care instructions for your curtains to ensure they last as long as possible while maintaining their beauty.
