A complete guide to curtain heading styles
Let’s be honest – you’ve probably spent hours agonising over fabric swatches and colour choices for your curtains (we’ve all been there!). But have you given much thought to how they’ll actually hang? The heading style you choose can completely transform your room’s appearance. Here, we’ll cover the main types of curtain headings and what they’re best suited for, plus some tips for deciding which is right for your home.
Types of curtain headings
Pencil pleat
Think of pencil pleats as the classic little black dress of curtain headings – they never go out of style. Named for their neat row of tightly gathered folds that look rather like a line of pencils, they come with adjustable cords sewn into the heading tape across the back, allowing you to fine–tune the fullness to your heart’s content, simply gather them tighter for a more lavish look or keep things relaxed with a looser drape.
This heading style is the ultimate people-pleaser, as it’s wonderfully versatile and plays nicely with both tracks and poles. They’re perfectly at home in any room, whether you’re going for laid–back casual or proper posh.
Single pleat
If pencil pleats are the little black dress, single pleats are the crisp white shirt – simple, elegant, and effortlessly stylish. Each pleat is precisely formed and tacked at regular intervals, creating a clean, consistent look across your curtain top.
Single pleats are perfect for those who appreciate minimalist style (and who love a deal). They create a smart, tailored look that works brilliantly in smaller spaces where you don’t want your windows to feel overwhelmed. They’re particularly nice with lighter fabrics and bring a contemporary touch to any room.
Triple pleat (French pleat)
Ah, the triple pleat – or French pleat if you’re feeling fancy. This style features three fabric folds pinched together at regular intervals, creating gloriously deep, luxurious folds that would make any window proud.
Triple pleats are the most formal and luxurious of all the heading styles, perfect for rooms that deserve a touch of grandeur. They work beautifully in period properties and rooms with high ceilings where they can really show off their elegant folds. Just remember, these sophisticated beauties do love to indulge in extra fabric, making them a little more spendy than some other heading styles.
Reverse pleat
The reverse pleat (also known as a box pleat or inverted pleat) is the rebel of the curtain world – it turns its back on convention by, well, literally turning its pleats to face backward. This creates a satisfyingly smooth appearance at the top of your curtains.
If you’re after something a bit special but not showy, reverse pleats might be your perfect match. They create beautifully clean lines and deep, uniform folds that bring a modern twist to traditional pleating. They’re particularly nice with full–length curtains – though we’d give them a miss with shorter ones unless you fancy that slightly puffed–up look. Think of them as the sophisticated choice for contemporary spaces, especially if you’re fond of structured fabrics and clean lines.
S-fold pleat
The new kid on the block, S-fold pleats are what you might get if waves decided to become curtains. This modern style creates a smooth, rippling effect using specially designed carriers on a track system.
S-folds are perfect for those who like their curtains to make a statement without showing off. They create a gentle, wavelike effect that’s thoroughly modern without trying too hard. They’re particularly good for large windows and sliding doors, where their flowing form can really shine. Fair warning though, they do need their own special track (they’re a bit particular like that), but the result is worth the extra effort. If you’re going for that contemporary, architectural look, these could be your new best friends.
Eyelet
Simple but effective, eyelet headings feature metal rings embedded right into the curtain header. Think of them as the curtain equivalent of a capsule wardrobe – unfussy, practical, and always looking put-together.
Eyelet headings are the easy-going friend of the curtain world. They create satisfyingly uniform folds without any fuss, and they’re an absolute dream to open and close (no tugging required!). They’re not greedy with fabric either, using less than other pleated options. If you’re furnishing a modern home and want something that looks smart without trying too hard, eyelets could be the perfect choice. They get along with most fabric weights and look rather dashing in both bedrooms and living spaces.
Making your choice
Choosing a heading style is a bit like dating – it’s all about finding the right match for your space and style. Consider your room’s personality, window size, and whether you’d prefer a track or a rod. Different spaces often call for different solutions, so be sure to consider the style of each room—you won’t necessarily want the same heading style throughout the house.
For example, if you’ve got a swanky modern flat with floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room, an S-fold or 40mm eyelet heading will give you clean, contemporary lines to suit. But if you’re living in a old Victorian-style home with gorgeous high ceilings, triple pleats will complement those period features much better. Working with a cosy home office? Pencil pleats or single pleats will be your best mates, giving you a professional look without hogging all the space.
