Narrow Curtains for Tall Skinny Windows: The Complete Guide

Hi there! It's James from Dolcewe.com. Do you have tall, skinny windows in your home? They can be tricky to dress with the right window treatment.

But don't worry - we'll help you find the perfect curtains for narrow windows.

Our custom curtains start at just $26.99. We will cover how to measure, pick fabrics, and choose styles that work best for narrow windows.

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Why Tall Skinny Windows Need Special Curtains

Tall skinny windows have their own set of needs. Standard curtains often don't fit right on these windows. They may be too wide or too short. This makes your windows look out of place.

When curtains don't fit right, they can bunch up at the sides. This blocks light and makes your room feel small. You might also see gaps that let in too much light.

Many homes have these narrow windows in places like:

• Entryways
• Bathrooms
• Staircase landings
• Next to doors
• Attic spaces

Do you have tall skinny windows in your home? You need curtains made just for them. The right curtains can make these windows look much better.

Measuring Your Tall Narrow Windows

Before buying narrow window curtains, measure your windows carefully. This will ensure your custom window coverings fit perfectly.

Width Measurements

1. Measure the width of your window at the top
2. Measure at the middle point
3. Measure at the bottom
4. Use the widest measurement for your curtain width

If you want your curtains to fully cover the window when closed, add 2-3 inches on each side. For a fuller look, double the width of your window.

Length Measurements

1. Decide where you want to hang the curtain rod
2. Measure from this point to where you want curtains to end
3. Add 1-2 inches if you want curtains to pool on the floor

Here's a simple chart to help you pick the right curtain length:

Pro tip: Hang your curtain rod higher than the window. This makes your window look taller. It also lets in more light when the curtains are open.

Curtain Size Guide for Tall Skinny Windows

• For a full look, aim for curtains 1.5-2.5x the window width
• Mount the curtain rod 4-6 inches above the frame for a standard look
• For a dramatic effect, mount the rod just below the ceiling

At Doclewe, all curtains are made to measure to fit your unique windows. 

Best Curtain Styles for Narrow Windows

Not all curtain styles work well for tall skinny windows. Here are the best options:

1. Single Panel Curtains

One curtain panel works well for narrow windows. Single panels are easy to open and close. They take up less space than two panels.

Single panels look clean and simple. They work in small rooms where space is tight.

2. Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains let light through while adding style. They make your room feel airy. They work well in small spaces that need more light.

Sheers come in many colors. They add a soft touch to any room. They give you some privacy without blocking all the light.

3. Roman Shades

Roman shades fold up neatly when raised. They are a good choice for very narrow windows. They take up little space on the sides.

Roman shades come in many fabrics. You can get them with blackout lining if you need to block light.

4. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds draw the eye upward. This makes your windows look taller. They are easy to open and close.

Vertical blinds come in many colors and materials. They work well in modern homes.

Fabric Choices for Narrow Windows

The right fabric can make your narrow windows look their best. Here are some good choices:

Light Fabrics

Cotton, Gauze, and linen are light fabrics. They hang straight and don't look bulky. They let some light through for a bright room.

Light fabrics work well in small rooms. They make the space feel bigger and more open.

Blackout Fabrics

Do you need to block light? Blackout curtains are a good choice. They come in many colors and styles.

Blackout curtains also help keep your room warm in winter. They block cold air from coming through the window.

Patterned Fabrics

Vertical patterns can make your windows look taller. Stripes and long flower patterns work well. They draw the eye up and down, not side to side.

Be careful with big patterns. They might look too busy on a small window. Small or medium patterns often work best.

Color Tips for Narrow Window Curtains

The right color can make your windows look their best. Here are some tips:

Match Your Walls

Curtains in a color close to your wall color look good. They make your room feel bigger. The window blends with the wall for a smooth look.

Bold Accent Colors

Want your window to stand out? Pick a bold color that works with your room. This makes the window a focus point.

Bright colors work well in kids' rooms. They add fun and style to the space.

Light vs. Dark Colors

Light colors make your room feel bigger and brighter. They reflect more light around the room.

Dark colors can make a statement. They also block more light if that's what you need.

Hanging Hardware for Narrow Windows

The right hardware makes your curtains work better. Here are some good choices:

Slim Curtain Rods

Thin curtain rods work best for narrow windows. Thick rods can look too heavy. Look for rods ½ inch to ¾ inch thick.

You can find these rods in many finishes. Pick one that matches other items in your room.

Ceiling Mounts

Mounting your curtain rod and track on the ceiling works well. It makes your window look taller. It also lets you hang curtains higher than the window.

Ceiling mounts are good for windows close to the ceiling. They give you more hanging options.

Inside Mounts

Some narrow windows work well with inside mount curtains. These fit inside the window frame, not outside it.

Inside mounts are good for deep window frames. They keep the window trim visible.

Drape Heading Styles for Narrow Windows

The heading style impacts how your tall window curtains look and function.

Here are 4 options that work well for narrow windows:

Grommet Tops

• Metal rings in the curtain panel slide on the curtain rod

• Grommet tops are easy to open and close

• Give a modern, simple look to your window treatment

Pros:

• Sleek, contemporary appearance

• Durable metal grommets

• Smooth gliding on the rod

Cons:

• Can be noisy when opening/closing

• Limited compatibility with certain rods

• Grommets can pull out of fabric over time

Rod Pockets

• A pocket at the top of the curtain slides onto the curtain rod

• Creates a casual, gathered look

• Good for small windows or narrow door spaces

Pros:

• Easy to hang without additional hardware

• Affordable and widely available

• Suits many decor styles

Cons:

• Difficult to open and close smoothly

• Limits natural light when opened

• Fabric can wear down over rod over time

Pinch Pleats

• Evenly spaced pleats sewn into the curtain header

• Pleats are pinched together and fan out

• Give an elegant, tailored look to tall skinny windows

• Make narrow windows appear even taller

Pros:

• Sophisticated, formal appearance

• Adds fullness and structure

• Elongates the look of tall windows

Cons:

• More expensive due to fabric requirements

• Can appear too formal for some spaces

• Pleats may require more maintenance

Ripplefold

• Use a special track and tape system

• Create even, modern-looking ripples in the curtain panels

• Stack neatly to the side of the window when open

• Great for patio doors or limited side space

Pros:

• Sleek, uniform wave pattern

• Compact stacking when opened

• Ideal for sliding doors and large windows

Cons:

• Requires a specific track system

• Can be costly to install

• Waves can lose shape over time

Interior designers recommend choosing a heading style that complements your room's overall aesthetic.

For example, grommet tops work well in modern spaces, while pinch pleats suit more traditional decor.

Special Tips for Common Narrow Window Locations

Bathroom Windows

Bathroom windows need privacy. Water-resistant fabrics work best here. Look for polyester or vinyl curtains that won't get damaged by moisture.

Café curtains cover just the bottom half of the window. They give privacy while letting in light from the top.

Entryway Windows

Entryway windows often need to let in light. 

Sheer curtains work well here. They give some privacy while keeping the space bright.

You can layer sheers with heavier side panels. This gives you options for different times of day.

Windows Next to Doors

Windows next to doors need curtains that don't get in the way. Look for stationary panels that don't need to open and close.

These windows often need privacy. Pick fabrics that block the view from outside.

Curtain Sizes & Hanging Tips for Tall Skinny Windows

Choosing the right curtain size and hanging your window coverings well makes a big difference.

• For a full look, get curtain panels 1.5 to 3 times the window width
• Floor-length curtains go from the top to the floor
• Apron-length drapes hang 1-3 inches below the sill
• Floating curtains hang 2-6 inches below the sill
• Sill-length short curtains end right at the sill

To make your tall narrow windows look taller and wider:

• Hang the curtain rod 4-6 inches above the frame
• Extend the rod 3-6 inches on each side of the window
• Use a sturdy rod that won't sag with long curtain panels
• Consider using double rods for a layered look

With these tips, you can find the perfect curtains for tall skinny windows in your home. Measure carefully, pick the right heading style, fabric, color and size. Hang them high and wide to enhance the beauty of your unique windows.

Shop Custom Curtains for Narrow Windows at Dolcewe

At Dolcewe.com, we offer custom size curtains made just for tall and narrow windows.

• High-quality curtain panels in your exact size
• Many styles, fabrics, colors and patterns to suit any home decor
• Prices start at just $26.99 per single curtain panel
• Enjoy free shipping on orders over $199
• Extra 10% off when you sign up for our newsletter

Visit Dolcewe.com today to find the perfect narrow window curtains for your home!