Just like a great outfit can completely transform your look, the right curtains have the ability to bring your home decor to the next level. That said, the opposite can also be true — if you choose the wrong window treatments for your space, it can throw off the entire design and make the room feel less refined. Choosing the perfect curtains for your space is no simple task, especially when there’s such a wide range of options available. There are plenty of details that can make or break your outcome, and even a simple mistake can be the difference between a chic, stylish look and something that seems more like a misplaced shower curtain. If you want to make sure that your curtain choice looks luxurious among your decor, it’s helpful to avoid one crucial mistake — getting curtains that are too thin in width for your windows.

While some people pick out curtains with their practical benefits top of mind, for others, it’s more of an accessory for their windows. In this case, the proper width may not be a concern, under the assumption that the curtains will stay tucked to the sides. However, even if you never plan on fully extending your curtains, choosing an improper width can still have a negative impact on the style. No matter your intentions when buying new window treatments, width is a key factor to consider in order to create a full and elegant appeal within your design.

Interior designers believe that curtains that lack a full width can end up looking cheap and careless, whether open or closed. It’s similar to throw pillows — flat, under-filled pillows just don’t have the same appeal, but a plump, fluffy pillow adds a cozy and luxurious touch. To get the right width, your curtains should still have some fullness and folds when closed in order to create dimension in your design. One of the mistakes everyone makes when buying curtains is not measuring for them correctly. It’s suggested that your curtains should be at least twice as wide as your windows to emphasize the proportions and add the right amount of volume.

To find the right size, measure your window’s width and multiply it by two, or up to three for added depth and pleating. If you’re planning on using sheer curtains, it’s better to multiply your width by three to give them a chic, luxurious look. For a rich, sophisticated style, it’s also helpful to make sure your curtain rod’s width will extend at least 8 inches past the sides of your window, unless using an inside mount which should remain the exact width. If you want to amp up the volume even further for an truly opulent design, you can add depth and dimension to your space with simple sheer curtains by layering them under curtains of a thicker fabric — adding an extra layer of luxury.