Every few years, interior design trends shift, and homeowners start wondering whether certain décor elements are still relevant. One question that often comes up is: Are curtains out of style? The short answer is no. Curtains are not out of style at all — they’ve simply evolved. Modern homes continue to rely on curtains for softness, warmth, light control, privacy, and design impact, but today’s styles look very different from the heavy, ornate drapes of past decades.

Instead of disappearing, curtains have adapted to fit contemporary tastes, becoming one of the most versatile and customisable window furnishings available. Whether you’re renovating, building, or updating your interior design, understanding the modern direction of curtains helps you choose options that feel fresh, functional, and stylish.

Why modern homes still love curtains

If you’re asking “Are curtains out of style?”, it’s likely because older styles — such as bulky tasselled drapes or dark, heavy velvets — no longer align with today’s interior design trends. However, current styles focus on clean lines, light fabrics, and elegant layering, not on removing curtains altogether.

There are several reasons why curtains remain a key choice in Australian homes:

1. They soften and elevate any interior

Hard surfaces like tiles, timber flooring, stone benchtops, and minimalist furniture can make a room feel cold or echoey. Curtains introduce softness, movement, and warmth without overwhelming the space.

2. They offer superior light control and privacy

Unlike many blinds, curtains can be layered to achieve flexible light control — from soft daytime diffusion with sheers to full blackout for bedrooms and media rooms.

3. They frame windows and improve proportions

Installing curtains from ceiling to floor can create the illusion of taller ceilings and wider windows. This is a design trick used by interior designers around the world.

4. They complement every décor style

Whether your home is coastal, contemporary, classic, Hamptons, or modern minimalist, there are curtain styles suited to each aesthetic.

On-trend curtain styles in 2025

If you’re wondering “Are curtains out of style?”, look at the latest interior design trends — they point in the opposite direction. Curtains are more popular than ever, just in updated forms.

Layering remains a top trend

Sheer curtains paired with heavier blockout curtains allow homeowners to enjoy diffused natural light during the day and full privacy at night. This layered approach has become a staple across modern homes.

Maximalist colours and patterns are making a comeback

While neutrals remain popular, maximalism is resurging. Think bold prints, deep colours, textured fabrics, and oversized curtains that act as statement pieces. This shift proves that curtains are not only functional but also central to today’s design creativity.

Sustainable fabrics are in demand

Australians are increasingly choosing eco-friendly materials, including recycled textiles, organic cotton, and natural linen. Sustainability doesn’t just apply to furniture and construction — it has arrived for curtains too.

Light and neutral tones dominate minimalist homes

For clean, modern interiors, lightweight fabrics in whites, creams, greys, and taupes create a bright and airy feel. These curtains are subtle, elegant, and timeless without being outdated.

Styles losing popularity

Just as some trends rise, others naturally fade out. When asking “Are curtains out of style?”, it’s important to understand that it’s the old styles falling out of favour, not curtains themselves.

1. Heavy drapes with ornate details

Thick brocades, layered valances, fringe trims, and dramatic swags were popular decades ago, but now feel old-fashioned and heavy.

2. Dark, oversized fabrics in small rooms

These can make a room feel smaller and outdated. Light, breathable materials have taken their place.

3. Loud, dated colour schemes

Old-fashioned reds, browns, and oversized patterns feel out of step with today’s modern décor.

Even though certain styles are fading, modern curtain design is only becoming more refined, stylish, and adaptable.

How to choose curtains that stay in style

To ensure the curtains in your home feel modern and timeless, consider the following design principles:

Choose the right heading style

S-fold (wave) headings are one of the most popular modern choices, offering clean lines and consistent folds. Pencil pleat and pinch pleat remain classic options but are more suited to traditional interiors.

Use full ceiling-to-floor length

Hanging curtains high gives a refined look and adds height to the room. This has become a signature of modern interior styling.

Prioritise quality fabrics

Natural linen, soft sheers, luxurious textures, and quality blockout fabrics give your home a premium feel and hold their shape better over time.

Work with your colour scheme

Neutral tones remain the safest choice for long-term appeal. For bold colours, choose thoughtful accent shades that complement your furniture and lighting.

Consider layering

The most stylish curtain setups use two layers:

• Daytime: soft sheer curtains
• Night-time: blockout curtains

This combination offers flexibility, elegance, and practicality.

Curtains and the modern Australian home

Homes along the Central Coast often incorporate coastal colours, bright interiors, and open spaces. Curtains complement these styles beautifully by enhancing natural light, improving airflow control, and providing insulation in both summer and winter.

When installed professionally, curtains can even add value to your home by improving appearance, comfort, and privacy — something buyers always look for.

The Blind Crew supplies and installs custom-made curtains designed to suit the Central Coast lifestyle. Whether you prefer sheers, blockouts, S-folds, or layered combinations, every curtain is carefully crafted and tailored to fit your home perfectly. This ensures a premium, long-lasting finish that elevates your décor instantly.

SUMMARY

Curtains are not out of style — they are evolving. Modern trends focus on layering, natural fabrics, soft neutrals, sustainable materials, and clean heading styles like S-fold. While heavy, outdated styles may be fading, fresh, elegant and contemporary curtains continue to shape interior design across Australia. Whether you want warmth, privacy, softness, or modern sophistication, curtains remain a top choice. For Central Coast homeowners, The Blind Crew provides high-quality, custom-made curtains that elevate your home with professional installation, modern fabrics, and tailored designs.