Pelmets Vs Valances: What's The Difference?

You took the time to select the perfect curtains and other window treatments for your space, but don't overlook pelmets and valances to give your space the finishing touch. Pelmets (also called cornices) and valences date back centuries, but they have seen a resurgence in popularity since falling out of style in the 1990s. Plenty of trends come and go, but the return of these window treatments can likely be attributed to the recent shift in design trends from minimalist to maximalist decor.

While similar in style and function, each of these window treatments plays a different role in bringing a classic, formal vibe to any room they're in. Pelmets are structured and sleek, while valences offer a more soft and frilly appearance. Both pelmets and valences work to cover curtain hardware and add an unique charm to your windows. Deciding whether pelmets or valences are right for your space may come down to the aesthetic you want to achieve and the specifics of your space, like lighting, room size, and window size.

Pelmets are narrow strips, usually made of wood and covered with the same fabric as your curtains. These treatments are meant to hide your curtain rack's hardware and add a structured look to your windows. Though traditionally straight, you can add a more unique touch to your pelmets by experimenting with edge designs, like scalloping. Because they're sleek and typically take up little space, pelmets are well-suited to most spaces and interior design styles. Because of their custom fit, pelmets can make budget-friendly curtains look more expensive than they are. 

Valences, on the other hand, are much more versatile in terms of style. Valences are short curtains hung at the top of your windows. Like pelmets, they're often used to conceal hardware, the materials used for valances create a softer, more feminine look. Valances can be simple in style or more complex, featuring curved edges, draped folds, pleats, or tassels. Because they block part of the window, valances will not work well in small spaces that already receive little light. Valences can be an addition to your curtains or used alone, making them suitable for small windows, like kitchen windows, where full-length curtains would be overpowering.