Curtain heading styles explained

Pinch pleat, wave curtains, rufflette tape & more

Choosing the right curtain fabric is important, but the curtain heading style you choose will completely change how your curtains look, hang and move. From relaxed contemporary wave curtains in modern apartments to beautifully interlined triple pinch pleat curtains in country homes, curtain headings are one of the most important design decisions in bespoke window treatments.

What is a curtain heading?

A curtain heading is the finished top section of the curtain that attaches to the pole or track. The heading controls:

• How the curtain hangs

• The size and shape of the folds

• How formal or relaxed the curtain looks

• How much fabric fullness is required

• How smoothly the curtain operates

Different heading styles suit different interiors, window sizes and fabrics.

Pinch pleat curtains

Pinch pleat curtains remain one of the most popular choices for bespoke curtains; they create elegant, evenly spaced folds that stack beautifully when open and drape perfectly when closed. A pinch pleat is created by pinching sections of fabric together at the top of the curtain and stitching them permanently into place. The result is a tailored, structured and luxurious appearance.

Single pinch pleat curtains

Single pinch pleat curtains feature one simple pleat stitched into the curtain heading. This understated style works particularly well in:

• Contemporary homes

• Minimalist interiors

• Smaller rooms

• Casual living spaces

• Rooms where you want curtains to blend subtly into the décor

Because the folds are less pronounced, single pinch pleat curtains create a softer and less formal appearance than double or triple pleats. They are also often slightly more cost-effective due to requiring less fabric fullness.

Best fabric choices for single pleat curtains

• Linen

• Cotton blends

• Lightweight wool

• Contemporary textured fabrics

Ideal for

• Apartments

• Modern homes

• Home offices

• Bedrooms

• Relaxed family rooms

Double pinch pleat curtains

Double pinch pleat curtains create a fuller and more decorative finish. This style starts with a single pleat before being shaped further to create two defined folds at the top of the curtain. The result is a more structured appearance with increased fullness and depth.

Double pleats are extremely versatile and suit both traditional and modern interiors.

They are particularly popular in:

• Victorian homes

• Edwardian properties

• Georgian homes

• Luxury new builds

• Boutique-style interiors

Double pinch pleat curtains are commonly chosen for formal reception rooms and elegant bedrooms.

Advantages of double pleat curtains

• More luxurious appearance

• Better fabric drape

• Fuller folds

• Stronger visual impact

• Excellent insulation when interlined

Triple pinch pleat curtains

Triple pinch pleat curtains are considered one of the most luxurious curtain heading styles available. Featuring three tightly formed pleats grouped together, this heading creates rich folds and a highly tailored appearance. Triple pleats require more fabric, which increases both fullness and overall luxury. This style is often used in:

• Period properties

• Country homes

• Large bay windows

• Formal dining rooms

• High-ceilinged spaces

Triple pinch pleat curtains pair particularly well with:

• Velvet curtains

• Interlined curtains

• Silk curtains

• Heavier decorative fabrics

Wave Curtains

Wave curtains have become increasingly popular in contemporary interior design. Unlike pinch pleat curtains, wave curtains create smooth, continuous folds that glide effortlessly along a track.

The folds remain perfectly uniform from top to bottom, creating a clean architectural appearance.

Wave headings are ideal for:

• Minimalist interiors

• Modern extensions

• Floor-to-ceiling glazing

• Sliding doors

• Contemporary apartments

Why homeowners choose wave curtains

• Sleek contemporary appearance

• Excellent stack-back

• Smooth operation

• Ideal for large windows

• Works beautifully with sheer fabrics

Wave curtains are particularly popular in modern homes across London and coastal properties along the South Coast.

Gather tape/Pencil pleat tape curtains

Gather tape is a versatile curtain heading system commonly used in both handmade and ready-made curtains.

The tape is sewn onto the back of the curtain and gathered using cords to create evenly spaced folds.

They are often used where flexibility and adjustability are important.

How curtain heading style affects curtain cost

Curtain heading style has a direct impact on:

• Fabric usage

• Labour time

• Curtain fullness

• Installation complexity

Generally:

• Single pleats use less fabric

• Triple pleats require more fullness

• Wave curtains require specialist tracks or gliders

• Handmade headings involve more craftsmanship

Higher-end heading styles create:

• Better drape

• Fuller folds

• Improved insulation

• More luxurious aesthetics

Choosing the right curtain heading for your home

The best curtain heading depends on:

• Your interior style

• Ceiling height

• Window size

• Fabric choice

• Desired formality

• Budget

• Pole or track selection

As a general guide:

Frequently Asked Questions about curtain heading styles

What is the most luxurious curtain heading style?

Triple pinch pleat curtains are generally considered the most luxurious due to their fullness, tailored appearance and fabric weight.

Are wave curtains still in style?

Yes. Wave curtains remain extremely popular in modern interior design, particularly for large glazing and minimalist homes.

Which curtain heading uses the most fabric?

Triple pinch pleat headings usually require the most fabric because they need substantial fullness to create deep folds.

What heading works best for bay windows?

Both pinch pleat and wave curtains can work beautifully on bay windows depending on whether the interior is traditional or contemporary.

Are bespoke curtain headings worth it?

Yes. Professionally made headings create superior drape, movement and longevity compared to standard ready-made curtains.

Get in touch to learn more

At Chatelaine, we are experts in curtain making and would love to give you our advice on your next project. Contact us for a free consultation!