Understanding Valance
Valances have been used in window design since the Renaissance period, when they served as decorative headers on elaborate drapery schemes. Traditionally, valances were formal elements with swags, jabots, and fringe — hallmarks of French and English classical interiors. Modern valances range from structured tailored styles (box pleat, inverted pleat, straight with trim) to softer gathered forms (balloon, Austrian, rod pocket). A valance typically extends 12-18 inches below the top of the window frame and spans the full width of the window plus 2-4 inches on each side. Valances differ from cornices, which are rigid, box-like structures made of wood or foam board covered in fabric. While valances are soft textile treatments, cornices are architectural-looking hard treatments.
Valance in Interior Design
Valances solve practical and aesthetic problems in window design. They hide unattractive curtain rods, blinds headrails, and shade mechanisms. In kitchens, where long curtains are impractical near sinks and stoves, a valance provides a finished look without hanging fabric. In bathrooms, they add softness above blinds. Layered over floor-length curtains, valances create a polished, designer look with added visual height. Modern valances tend toward clean, tailored lines — flat Roman-style valances, simple box pleat valances, or straight panels with contrast trim. Traditional interiors use more elaborate styles with swags and cascading jabots. The key to a current-looking valance is mounting it at ceiling height rather than at the window frame, which makes windows appear taller.
