Velvet curtains have made a major comeback in recent years as part of the larger velvet and velveteen home decor trend. After falling out of fashion for decades, velvet is back in a big way, with velvet curtains being one of the most popular velvet items for the home. But are velvet curtains just a passing fad, or are they here to stay as a new classic decor style? Let’s take a look at the history of velvet curtains, their recent resurgence, and whether they can be considered an on-trend style for today’s homes.
The history of velvet curtains
Velvet curtains have a long history, first becoming popular in Europe during the Renaissance era. The luxurious fabric was a symbol of wealth and status, as only the nobility could afford the expensive material. Velvet curtains adorned the windows of grand palaces and manor houses across Europe.
During the Victorian era, velvet curtains remained a staple in upper class homes. The heavy, opulent fabric helped block drafts and keep warmth in during cold winters. Victorian velvet curtains were often very ornate, with elaborate trim, tassels, and layers of fabric.
Velvet curtains continued to be popular into the early 20th century. However, by the middle of the century, as decor trends shifted towards sleek mid-century modern and minimalist styles, velvet curtains fell out of favor as old-fashioned. For several decades, velvet curtains were seen as stuffy and outdated.
The velvet comeback
In the past 10-15 years, velvet has made a stunning comeback in home decor and fashion. The return of velvet curtains is part of this larger revival of velvet across industries. What sparked this velvet renaissance? Some key factors include:
– Vintage and retro trends: As vintage mid-century, boho chic, and grandmillenial styles came into vogue, so did a renewed appreciation of old-fashioned fabrics like velvet. After decades out of sight, velvet was fresh again.
– Increase in patterned and textures fabrics: Velvet offers a lush, tactile texture that flat fabrics lack. As more people embraced pattern and sought out textured fabrics for depth and coziness, velvet made a natural comeback.
– Advancements in velvet production: New manufacturing techniques have improved velvet quality while reducing costs. This made velvet more accessible to a wider range of budgets.
– Move towards luxe, ornate decor: After years dominated by minimalism, people started seeking out opulence in decor again. Velvet fits that desire for ornate, luxurious home furnishings.
– Social media inspiration: Stylish velvet sofas, beds, clothing and more on Instagram and Pinterest inspired people to bring velvet into their own homes.
Whatever the reason, it’s clear velvet is back in style. And velvet curtains are leading the way.
The popularity of today’s velvet curtains
Walk into any home decor or furniture store today, and you’re guaranteed to spot velvet curtains. From big box stores to high-end boutiques, velvet curtains can be found in abundance.
Much of the appeal of today’s velvet curtains include:
– Vintage inspired looks: Modern velvet curtains range from Victorian gothic to mid-century retro. The vintage appeal resonates across generations.
– Variety of colors: While black and darker hues are common, today’s velvet curtains also come in vibrant jewel tones, pastels, and dramatic patterns.
– Affordable prices: Advances in manufacturing make velvet more budget-friendly than past eras. There are velvet curtains at price points to suit most shoppers.
– Softness and texture: The plush, padded feel of velvet adds coziness and depth to a room. Light plays off the fabric beautifully.
– Noise reduction: Velvet’s thickness helps absorb sound, making it appealing for home theaters or bedrooms.
– Temperature insulation: Velvet’s density traps heat in winter and keeps rooms cooler in summer.
– Luxurious image: Velvet still conveys an air of timeless grandeur and elegance.
With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why velvet curtains have been rising steadily in popularity over the past decade. Their versatility allows them to fit into diverse decor styles from modern to traditional.
Are velvet curtains still on trend for 2023?
As we move deeper into the 2020s, velvet curtains show no signs of fading from relevance. If anything, their popularity continues to grow. Design forecasts predict velvet home furnishings, including curtains, will remain highly sought-after in 2023 and beyond.
Evidence that velvet curtains are here to stay:
– Continued widespread retail availability in stores across all price points
– Increased selection of velvet curtain designs and colors from major brands
– Strong sales figures for velvet curtains and other velvet furniture
– Prominent use of velvet curtains in interior design magazines and home makeover shows
– Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok posts show velvet as a top fabric choice
– Vintage and retro decor trends carrying over from the 2010s
– Ongoing appreciation of textures like velvet among younger generations
– Perception of timelessness and traditional charm velvet curtains convey
Everything suggests velvet curtains aren’t fading from relevance any time soon. Their recent resurgence has given velvet staying power as an on-trend fabric. Velvet curtains fit with diverse aesthetics from modern farmhouse to art deco glam to bohemian chic. Their versatility gives them widespread appeal across styles and demographics. As people continue seeking out cozy, ornate, vintage-inspired decor, velvet curtains should easily remain popular through 2023 and for years to come.
Style tips for rocking velvet curtains
Here are some top tips for stylishly incorporating velvet curtains in your home:
– Choose colors and patterns that complement your existing decor. Stay cohesive.
– Go for floor-length curtains for a dramatic, luxurious look. Puddle them onto the floor.
– Layer sheer behind velvet curtains to soften the look and allow more light in.
– Add decorative embellishments like thick tassels, braided trim or embossed patterns.
– Repurpose vintage velvet curtains from secondhand stores for a retro vibe.
– Opt for heavy blackout-lined velvet in bedrooms and home theaters.
– Introduce velvet with cushions and throws before committing to curtains.
– Select sumptuous dressing gown-like velvet for ornate formal living rooms or bedrooms.
– Consider heading or puddling velvet curtains for a casual, relaxed look.
– Hang curtain rods extra high and wide to emphasize the height of ceilings.
– Pair with Persian rugs, chandeliers, antique furniture and other ornate elements.
Velvet curtains give any room a texture and mood boost. Have fun playing with length, fullness, lining and embellishments to customize your look. Use velvet generously throughout your home to create a glamorous, inviting retreat.
Conclusion
After decades out of favor, velvet curtains have triumphantly returned to the forefront of home decor. Their surge in popularity over the past 10-15 years has proven they are much more than a passing trend. Thanks to their timeless elegance, plush texture, sound absorption, vintage associations and affordable price points, velvet curtains are here to stay as an on-trend fabric.
Forecasts indicate that the velvet craze will continue going strong through 2023 and beyond. Velvet curtains in particular are widely available across stores, featured in magazines and heavily pinned and hashtagged on social media. Their versatility also allows them to complement diverse decor aesthetics from farmhouse to Hollywood regency. For all these reasons, velvet curtains can definitively be called a current – and future – home decor trend. Their dramatic, luxurious style will likely keep wowing for many years to come.
