Cafe curtains are making a stylish comeback, and designers are finding innovative ways to incorporate them into modern spaces.

In the realm of interior design, two words are constantly used: 'cozy' and 'inviting.' These adjectives capture the essence of the atmosphere people strive for when designing their homes, considering the palette, furniture, and accessories. While window treatments are often regarded as practical, they can be key to adding charm and character to a home, especially when cafe curtains are featured.

'Cafe curtains have always been a staple, but they’re definitely making a big comeback, even in my own home,' says designer Emily Henderson. 'They’re both cute and practical, offering privacy without covering the entire window. With the continuing trend of the ‘eclectic English’ look, they provide a warm touch. I also love how they can bring a soft element to more contemporary spaces.'

With their adaptability and the ease of purchasing and installing supplies, it's no surprise that cafe curtains have become a popular and valuable choice for almost every room. 'They tap into a sense of nostalgia many of us are drawn to, while remaining incredibly functional,' says Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors. Along with designer Colleen O'Neill of Our 1842 Home, they’ve been using this style and are sharing their tips on how you can style cafe curtains in your own home. Keep reading for their expert advice.

Choosing the Right Fabrics

To achieve that effortlessly chic look with your cafe curtains, focus on two key fabric choices. 'Cotton or linen are ideal for cafe curtains,' says O'Neill. Henderson agrees, noting that these fabrics are light enough to let in sunlight but still offer the necessary privacy.

Common areas like kitchens and living rooms, which often face public streets, are ideal for these fabric choices. However, Oholendt suggests making a slight adjustment in smaller spaces like powder rooms and bathrooms. 'For these rooms, I would either add a privacy lining or choose a fabric with a bit more weight,' she explains. Just be careful not to go too heavy, as it can make the curtains look bulky and uneven on the rod.

'One last tip,' Oholendt adds. 'I adore a simple pinch-pleat for cafe curtains. It gives a sophisticated look without being too formal, and the way it hangs is far more flattering compared to other styles.'

Opt for Familiar Patterns

Cafe curtains have a charming, approachable quality, which is why the most fitting patterns are often the ones that feel the most familiar. 'I love a delicate floral, checkered design, stripes, or a block print to keep things relaxed,' says O'Neill.

These patterns can enhance a wide range of both traditional and contemporary spaces, whether you’re looking to introduce more color to a minimalist room or to intensify an already bold color scheme in a more maximalist space. Henderson, for example, combined stripes and plaids in her own home, sticking to a harmonious blue theme. She believes the choice ultimately hinges on the overall design. 'In the right setting, you can make any pattern work,' she says. Oholendt agrees with that flexibility, but with one caveat. 'While I don’t believe there are strict rules, I do feel that large-scale patterns don’t always translate well for cafe curtains,' she notes.

Focus on Where You Place Them

The way you hang your curtain rod depends on the amount of light and privacy you desire, but there are certain guidelines to ensure your desired look is achieved. O'Neill suggests opting for a brass rod with rings for a timeless vibe, though no matter the material you choose, it can also be installed as a tension rod—great for rental-friendly spaces!

Generally, the rod should be placed a few inches above the window's center, ensuring the fabric hangs just above the sill without touching it. 'For larger window spans, like double or triple windows, choose a thicker rod to prevent sagging in the middle,' advises Oholendt. 'For single windows or smaller double windows, a smaller rod, typically between ⅜-inch and ½-inch in diameter, should suffice.'

Lastly, don't hesitate to treat cafe curtains as an evolving expression of your style. Once the hardware is set up, it’s a great opportunity to switch out fabrics seasonally or whenever you like. In other words, it’s a fantastic excuse to keep things feeling fresh. 'Cafe curtains are usually a more affordable option than traditional window treatments, so they’re easy to update and economically practical,' says Oholendt.