Curtains and drapes may seem similar, but they serve different purposes.
Curtains are usually made of lightweight fabric and are used to filter or block out some light. You’ll find them in everyday settings — like living rooms or bedrooms — often paired with blinds or sheers. Curtains are more about decoration and moderate privacy.
Drapes, on the other hand, are heavier. They’re made from thick, lined fabric and often stretch from ceiling to floor. They’re designed to completely block out light and add insulation — making them a great choice for bedrooms or formal settings. Drapes are also used to reduce outside noise and keep rooms warmer or cooler, depending on the season.
Another difference lies in how they hang: curtains typically slide on a rod through rings or loops, while drapes are usually pleated and hang from hooks.
So next time you walk into a room, look up. If it’s light and breezy, it’s a curtain. If it’s heavy and grand, it’s likely a drape.