Whether termed vintage, period, retro or antique, there is a certain nostalgic association with things old. The craftsmanship and visual aesthetic of pattern, color and texture exemplified in vintage fabrics such a satin, lace, chintz or velvet evoke a pleasing association with yesteryear. Vintage curtains from any era can enhance décor and add interest to a room.
Windows draw visual attention and an attractive window covering provides aesthetic enjoyment. The decorative style of a room may be modern, but the addition of antique lace window panels can soften hard lines and provide an interesting contrast without disrupting the overall thematic effect. Draperies reminiscent of an earlier era can be fitted into almost any decorative theme, providing a focal point to the room. A vintage shower curtain with panels of Andy Warhol paintings or fanciful Art Deco motifs can enliven an otherwise stolidly functional bathroom space.
Window treatments used with a formal or period décor, such as the Neoclassical style characterized by Sheraton and Hepplewhite, may feature damask, satin, silk or brocade fabrics to complement the furniture. Valances with soft festoons or rosettes, sheer casement curtains and heavier drapes with tiebacks complete the look. Some modern fabrics can be used to create the effect of period draperies.
The simple, utilitarian lines of Shaker or Pennsylvania Dutch styles call for crisp cottons, crettone or linens in country curtain styles such as ruffled tiers or cafes with swags. Many contemporary ready-made curtains emulate the look of various Early American styles and blend well with these decorating schemes.
The 1950’s Retro style features bright, clean lines in furniture made of vinyl, chrome and glass. Splashes of color and sparing use of vibrant patterns such as polka dots and stripes, or fruits and vegetables add interest. A window treatment that blends well with this style might include patterned, pleated, single-tier fabric panels topped by a full, pinch-pleat or Austrian-style valance. Alternatively, light-colored cafes with a print of cherries or strawberries topped by a swag edged with a fringe of pom-poms in a matching color also fit well with a Retro look.
A more nostalgic decorative theme is the lace, velvet and bric-a-brac clutter of the Victorian style, which is characterized by ornate, heavy furniture, floral upholstery and voluminous window treatments. Effective window dressings may feature lace casement panels and tied-back over-draperies of a bright color such as maroon or blue, or a large floral pattern. Combining Victorian-style antiques with contemporary elements evokes the atmosphere of the period but lightens the effect for modern taste.
Vintage curtains convey the essence of a period or style in a room’s decor. Whether the style is reminiscent of William Morris’ English floral designs of the Arts and Crafts Movement or Pop Art of the 1960s, vintage-inspired curtains make a decorative statement.
