Your curtains do more than block light—their top styles (also called drapery headers or curtain headers) define your room’s aesthetic and functionality. From grommet to pinch pleat, each type of drapery header creates a unique look.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular curtain top types to help you pick the perfect hanging header for your space—whether you need custom outdoor drapes or elegant indoor treatments.
1. Rod Pocket (Classic Curtain Header)
Rod Pocket (Classic Curtain Header) is perfect for farmhouse, cottage, or casual spaces, offering a timeless look with its simple fabric channel that slides directly onto the rod. This style creates soft, gathered folds that add warmth and charm to any room, though it can be slightly harder to open and close daily compared to other options. Ideal for those who love a relaxed aesthetic, this curtain top style is one of the most popular types of drapery headers and works beautifully as a hanging header for lightweight or medium-weight fabrics.
2. Grommet (Modern Curtain Top Type)
Grommet (Modern Curtain Top Type) is ideal for contemporary homes and high-traffic areas, featuring sleek metal rings that allow curtains to glide effortlessly while maintaining crisp, uniform folds. This versatile header style works exceptionally well with blackout curtains for light control and can even be used with custom outdoor drapes for a polished patio or balcony look. As one of the most functional top of curtain types, this curtain header style combines modern aesthetics with practical ease of use, making it perfect for frequently adjusted window treatments in both residential and commercial spaces.
3. Pinch Pleat (Elegant Drapery Header)
Pinch Pleat (Elegant Drapery Header) elevates any formal living or dining space with its sophisticated, tailored appearance. This refined curtain top type features fabric meticulously stitched into uniform pleats—offering options like 2-finger, 3-finger, or the more ornate French pleat for added grandeur. As one of the most luxurious types of drapery headers, pinch pleats create structured, cascading folds that exude timeless elegance while providing excellent light control and insulation. Perfect for heavy fabrics like velvet or damask, this header style transforms windows into stunning focal points while maintaining effortless functionality.
4. Tab Top (Boho Curtain Header Style)
Tab Top (Boho Curtain Header Style) brings effortless, carefree charm to any space with its distinctive fabric loops that drape gracefully over the curtain rod. Perfect for creating relaxed bohemian vibes, this curtain header style works especially well with lightweight sheer curtains that filter sunlight beautifully while maintaining privacy. The open-loop design of this top of curtain type allows for breezy movement and easy adjustment, making it ideal for bedrooms, sunrooms, or any area where you want to maintain an airy, organic feel. Unlike more structured headers, tab tops offer a casually elegant look that pairs perfectly with natural textures like linen or cotton, embodying laid-back sophistication in your window treatments.
5. Back Tab (Invisible Hanging Header)
Back Tab (Invisible Hanging Header) creates a magical floating effect with its clever hidden tab design that completely conceals the curtain rod. This sophisticated curtain top style offers a streamlined, custom look as the fabric appears to effortlessly cascade from an invisible hanging header, making it perfect for modern and minimalist interiors. The discreet tabs positioned behind the curtain face allow for smooth operation while maintaining an unbroken drape of fabric - ideal for showcasing beautiful textiles or creating a polished, high-end aesthetic. Unlike visible headers, this refined hanging header option works particularly well in formal spaces where you want the focus to remain on your luxurious curtain fabric rather than hardware.
How to Choose the Perfect Curtain Header?
Selecting the right curtain header style ensures both functionality and aesthetic harmony in your space. Here’s a quick guide to match your needs:
✔ Functionality First:
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For frequent use (bedrooms, living rooms), choose grommet (smooth glide) or back tab (hidden tabs, easy adjustability).
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For stationary decorative panels, rod pocket or tab top work beautifully.
✔ Style Matters:
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Formal spaces (dining rooms, master suites): Opt for structured pinch pleats (elegant folds) or back tabs (clean lines).
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Casual vibes (farmhouse, boho): Try rod pockets (soft gathers) or tab tops (relaxed loops).
✔ Fabric Weight & Purpose:
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Heavy fabrics (velvet, blackout): Need support? Pinch pleat or grommet.
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Lightweight/sheers (linen, voile): Float effortlessly with tab tops or rod pockets.
