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Cream curtains paired with gray natural window shades in a bedroom

Top Tips For Combining Different Window Treatments

March 19, 2025

When shopping for window treatments, you’re probably looking for something that can block outside light and provide privacy. But you also want your windows to look stylish. For some homeowners, one window treatment might not meet all their needs. If you run into this issue, don’t hesitate to combine window treatments! See how layering curtains with shades, shutters, or blinds can give you the perfect combination of beauty and function.

Why Combine Window Treatments?

Sometimes, it takes two window treatments to achieve the look and functionality you want. Perhaps you love the look of curtains but find they don’t do all the jobs you want from a window treatment. Window shades, blinds, and shutters all give you more flexibility in covering your windows. By combining window treatments, you can achieve a trendy look, plus better light control, energy efficiency, and privacy. Keep reading for ideas for pairing curtains with shutters, shades, or blinds.

Get Everything You Want By Pairing Curtains With Shutters

sage green and brown wavy pattern curtains with white polywood shutters in an office

If you like the look of fabric curtains but need a window treatment that does more than look pretty, you can get the best of both worlds by layering your curtains over plantation shutters. These interior shutters have hinged panels and adjustable louvers that let you choose the perfect amount of natural light, darkness, and privacy. They come in many neutral colors, complementing any curtains you use. And you will have your shutters for many years because their solid materials and construction make them very durable.

While thick curtains can help block cold window drafts, they don’t compare to shutters. Custom interior shutters enclose your windows to stop outside air from entering your home. Some even have weatherstripping to keep out cold air more effectively. You can’t get that kind of insulation from curtains alone!

Play With Color And Texture When You Layer Curtains With Shades

Matching Roman shades and curtains on living room windows

Putting curtains with shades opens up many decorating possibilities by mixing textures and colors. Choosing complementary colors but contrasting textures makes your room feel cozy and sophisticated. Contrasting colors add whimsy or drama. Matching your curtains and shades in color and texture looks simple but elegant.

Of course, using curtains and shades together gives you better control over light and privacy. If you like sheer curtains, an opaque shade lets you block light and the view in your home when needed. A top-down/bottom-up shade lets you cover the lower part of the window but let light stream in from the top. For the most convenience, install a motorized shade that you operate with a button from the comfort of your seat.

Find A Classic Solution With Curtains And Blinds

Sage green patterned curtains on white blinds in a living room

Curtains and blinds are a classic combo. Many homeowners dress up builder-grade blinds by adding decorative curtains. But you can elevate this look further by using high-quality blinds with your favorite curtains. Premium wood and faux wood blinds look nicer than builder-grade products and work better. Their fine craftsmanship ensures they last longer than flimsy vinyl or aluminum blinds. You don’t have to worry about slats breaking and letting light in or being an eyesore.

Find Window Treatments For Layering At Sunburst Shutters

The secret to layering window treatments is to use quality products that look great. Sunburst Shutters offers only the finest window treatments for your home and will help you achieve the look and coverage you want for your windows. Call 877-786-2877 or fill out the form below to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Dix Jarman CEO Headshot
Author: Dix Jarman
Chief Executive Officer
Dix Jarman is the Chief Executive Officer of Sunburst Shutters & Window Fashions and graduated from Brigham Young University with a business degree. He opened the Las Vegas Sunburst Shutters showroom with his wife. Thanks to their hard work and optimistic nature, they created the most successful store location in Sunburst Shutters Corporation’s history. From Vegas, Dix opened the Hawaii showroom; and from there continued to further establish the overall future success of the company.

As CEO, Dix directs the day-to-day operations of North America’s largest shutter company. He is heavily involved in quality control, manufacturing, operations, and sales and regularly consults with showrooms and dealers worldwide.

QUOTE: “It’s true that Sunburst offers the best product in the shutter industry. But make no mistake—we are successful because we’ve hired the best people who are truly committed to doing whatever it takes to exceed customer expectations every day.”

FAVORITE SHUTTER STORY: Many families who bought shutters from me have become very good friends. It’s great that we offer a product and service that sparks lifelong relationships.