The Defining Window Treatment Trend Of 2026 (& The Many Ways To Get The Look)

Of all the decorating choices we stress over, window treatments rarely get the attention they deserve, often leading us to choose something simple and practical just to get the job done. That said, home trends are going through a big shift this year, with homeowners looking to bring more flair into their decor decisions, rather than playing it safe with minimalist styles and purely functional designs. Windows are a great place to explore this change, as an elevated, design-forward approach can allow us to see window treatments as less of an obligation, and more of an opportunity to contribute to the overall look of each room. There are plenty of common window treatment types you're likely to consider, but it can be difficult to narrow it down to one style, especially when they all have so many different qualities to offer. The good news is, you don't have to settle for a simple, "good enough" choice anymore because layered window treatments are set to lead the trends going into 2026.

In an interview with Martha Stewart, Erica Flynn, an executive from Graber, expressed the appeal of layered treatments, saying "Pairing sheers, shades, and drapery will dominate, adding both comfort and dimension." As the new year approaches, we're seeing more layered window treatments bringing back character and depth into every aspect of home design. Whether you're planning a full home renovation or simply looking for ways to refresh your space, upgrading your windows with a stylish, layered treatment can make all the difference.

Over the last year, design magazines from Wallpaper to House Beautiful have referenced the layered window look creeping into the designs of America's top interior designers. And, a general move away from minimalism has empowered designers and homeowners alike to embrace depth in window decor. When speaking with Homes & Gardens earlier this year, interior designer Paula Dixon noted that "Layering window treatments is an art form that combines beauty with practicality," adding that "balancing both aesthetic appeal and functionality" is at the core of this approach. The trend isn't just about appearances, it's about taking advantage of all the unique benefits different window treatments have to make sure your design both functional and looks intentional and cohesive.

The layered approach isn't just multi-faceted, it's also extremely versatile. Whether you want to give bay windows an elevated look with layered combinations, or create a statement style to replace your bedroom blinds, there are endless ways to pair treatments for a look that fits your goals. While one layer can fulfill your aesthetic needs with certain textures and colors, another layer can work to cover more practical needs like insulation and privacy. It all starts with understanding what you personally want to get out of your window treatments, so you can craft a layered look that makes it all possible.

The layered window treatment trend can work for any home, whether you're adding layers to your existing treatments, or switching everything up for a whole new look. There are plenty of ways to successfully layer your curtains with simple tips that can help make your approach more successful. For instance, it helps to start with a practical base layer treatment, typically with mounted styles like roller shades, Roman shades, or blinds — this layer will often work best to fulfill function rather than flair, while the following layers will work to create volume and accents. The base can be a good treatment to go for minimalist styles, before exploring more unique fabrics and design schemes in other layers. If you don't need anything too heavy-duty here, some designers may recommend that you explore sheer curtain fabrics that act as a subtle layer of privacy.

Although your layers will likely all be somewhat different, it can help to make sure they align on a certain aesthetic, whether that's maximalist, classic, or organic modern. For a boho-style space, you might layer in some texture by pairing breezy linen curtains with a more natural base like wood blinds or relaxed bamboo shades that give your windows a light, earthy feel. If you're aiming for something bold, use patterned curtains in valances or top layers, and pair with unique textures or complementary colors in your base — or mix things up with a patterned base instead. If you want to keep the style subtle while still offering maximum impact and functionality, aim for neutral tones while creating depth through various fabrics and textures.