drapes

Drapes are window coverings consisting of fabric panels that hang from a rod or track to control light, provide privacy, and contribute to a room’s aesthetics. They are typically heavier and more formal than lightweight curtains and are often used to create a full, floor-to-ceiling appearance.

In common U.S. usage, drapes refer to opaque, lined panels that cover the window completely and reach the floor. Curtains or drapery panels may be lighter or decorative; terminology varies by region and retailer, but drapes are generally designed for greater light blocking and insulation.

Construction usually involves a header, a length of fabric cut to floor length, and often a lining or interlining. Common fabrics include velvet, damask, heavyweight cottons, and blends; many drapes are lined or interlined for light control and insulation. Hardware includes rods, traverse tracks, and various headings such as pinch-pleat or rod-pocket styles.

Styles range from tailored, crisp panels to luxurious, fully lined draperies. Some drapes are designed with blackout lining for complete darkness, while others feature decorative patterns and textures for emphasis. Functions include privacy, light control, energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through windows, and, in some installations, minor acoustic dampening.

Installation considerations include ensuring correct length to the floor, appropriate stacking width when opened, and clearance for tracks or rods. Care depends on the fabric but often requires dry cleaning or gentle washing; many drapes are not machine washable, and options vary by manufacturer and lining.

The term drape derives from the French word drap, meaning cloth, and historically describes the folding and hanging of fabric. Modern production and ready-made panels expanded the availability of drapes in home interiors during the 19th and 20th centuries.