Top Treatments Explained (Also known as Valances)

It’s likely you’re reading “top treatments” and wondering what the heck we’re talking about. Even if you’re well-versed in the window world, you may have not heard of these decorative and functional add-ons. 

Also known as valances, these decorative fabric embellishments sit at the top portion of their adjoining windows and are meant to be paired with additional blinds or shades. This design choice was especially popular in the Victorian era and has started to come back into style in recent times. 

A Little Background on Top Treatments
(AKA: Valances) 

Valances definitely add an opulent and ornate touch to the windows they adorn. This effect reflects the historical time periods in which they were most popular. First seen in the early Renaissance, valances were also “on-trend” during the Baroque period, and later in the Victorian era. 

These draped toppers stuck around for most of the 20th century; however, they saw a decrease in popularity during the 2008 housing crisis. During this time, home goods with an emphasis on aesthetics became less valued in general. Decorative window treatments were not seen as essential and therefore, valances stepped away from the spotlight. 

Stylistically, they’re a bold move. There’s no doubt they’re more decorative than most window treatments. With that said, bold definitely isn’t bad. If anything, we think it’s bad to the bone. With the variety of fabric choices and drapery styles out there, the addition of carefully chosen top treatments may just bring a much-needed element of personality into your home. 

Let Your Valances Do the Balancing 

We could go on and on about how stunning these coverings are but it’s useful for you to know why they’re worth it, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. 

 We encourage you to see these top drapes as a “layering” tool. These additions add depth and interest to your window areas, causing them to look more elongated, intentionally placed, and thoughtfully designed. This one stylistic piece can complete a look of cohesiveness. 

More importantly, they cleverly cover hardware or evidence of installation. By building aesthetic interest with valances, you’re actually disguising the less-pretty parts of your windows. 

They can also highlight the design choices of your existing window treatments. When paired with a well-suited set of blinds or shades, you’ll create a window unit that is not just a portal to beauty, but beautiful in itself. 

Add an Extra Layer of Sophistication with Top Treatments 

Icing is to cake as top treatments are to windows. They’re not entirely necessary, but definitely more tasteful. Whether you’re trying to hide hardware or just upgrade the aesthetics of your home, these traditional treatments handle the job with style. 

Top treatments are a safe trend to try out. With the variety of fabric and drape choices today, they can serve as an ornamental embellishment just as easily as a modern and chic statement. Add some personalized flair with the addition of top treatments and your windows will stand out from the crowd.

Do You Have More Questions For Us? Ask Away!

Are you wanting to know more about valances, draperies, or window treatments in general? Use Windows Dressed Up as your window treatment resource!  Our staff is highly qualified at guiding you in your shopping process and will save you from scouring the Internet for answers. We’re just a phone call away and always up for a chat or a free virtual consultation.