How Wide Should Curtains Be? A Complete Guide Based on Window Size & Header Style

If you're investing in custom drapes, getting the curtain width right is just as important as choosing the right fabric or lining. Curtains that are too narrow look skimpy and unfinished, while overly wide panels can overwhelm your space or bunch up awkwardly.

So, how wide should your curtains be? The answer depends on a few key factors:

The width of your window or rod

The fullness ratio you want

The header style you choose (pleated, grommet, rod pocket, etc.)

Let’s break down each of these elements to help you measure confidently—and create window treatments that feel as luxurious as they look.

1. Start With the Mounting Width: Track or Rod

The first step is measuring the total width of the area your curtains will cover, not just the glass window.

At LuxDrape, we recommend measuring the track or rod width, which usually extends beyond your window on both sides to allow the curtains to stack back neatly when opened.

Pro Tip: If you haven’t installed your hardware yet, plan for the rod to extend 4–10 inches beyond the window frame on each side.

2. Apply Fullness Ratio Based on Header Style

“Fullness” refers to how much fabric is used compared to the width of your curtain rod. More fabric = richer folds and a fuller appearance.

Here's a general guideline:

 At LuxDrape, pleated styles (like pinch or triple pleat) are sewn with fullness already accounted for. You only need to enter the exact rod width—we do the math and adjust the fabric for you.

Example:

If your rod is 100 inches wide, and you're ordering grommet curtains, you’ll need 200–250 inches of finished curtain width (not window width!). That could mean two panels at 100–125 inches each, or one wide panel.

3. Panel Width vs. Total Width

You can split the width across two panels or order a single wide panel, depending on your design goals:

Two Panels – Ideal for symmetry and traditional layering

One Panel – Works well for corner windows or sliding doors

Flat Top Styles (Grommet, Rod Pocket, Back Tab, Tab Top, Flat Panel)
Panel Width = (Rod/Track Width × Fullness) ÷ Panel Quantity

Pleated Top Styles (Pinch Pleat, Euro Pleat – Double/Triple)
Panel Width = Rod/Track Width ÷ Panel Quantity

Ripple Fold:
Panel Width = Rod/Track Width ÷ Panel Quantity (The bottom panel width will be approximately 2.1x the top width when hanging)

You will need to enter the exact rod/track width and fullness preference when placing your order.

If you are unsure about the header style, please consult our Header Style Guide to select your preferred header style.

On our custom drapery product pages, you simply input your desired total width, and we handle the panel division or custom sizing as needed.

4. Special Considerations for Layering or Sheers

If you're layering sheer curtains behind main drapes, apply the same fullness rule to both layers. LuxDrape’s sheer collection offers light-filtering softness with ample volume.

Try pairing a 2.5× sheer layer with a 2.0× blackout layer for a refined, hotel-inspired look.

5. What If I Want Floor-to-Ceiling or Wall-to-Wall Drapery?

When creating a wall-to-wall look (common in bedrooms or modern living rooms), measure the entire wall span—not just the window—and still apply your fullness ratio.

Likewise, for extra-tall windows, remember: the width needs stay proportional. Don’t skimp on width just because the drapes are long!

And yes, LuxDrape specializes in extra-long curtains—affordable, elegant, and custom-tailored.

Still Not Sure? Use Our Measurement Guide

We've created a Drapery Measurement Tool to help you calculate exactly what you need. It includes diagrams, examples, and pro tips for every header style.

And if you need assistance, our design support team is here to walk you through the process.

Final Word: Don’t Guess—Measure with Confidence

Getting curtain width right is the secret to achieving designer-level results. Custom drapes offer endless possibilities—but only if they’re sized correctly.

Whether you’re ordering linen pinch pleats or modern grommet panels, LuxDrape ensures your curtains are:

Proportional and polished

Made with the right fullness

Perfectly customized to your space

Explore our curtain collection today and experience the difference of made-to-measure.