Replace Your Dated Valances: The Thrifted Find That Adds Vintage Charm To Windows

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There's nothing objectively wrong with having traditional valences on your windows. After all, they were popular for decades as a way to add additional texture and pattern to your space without relying on a long, heavy curtain that can easily get in the way of cooking or cleaning. One thing's for sure, though — their heyday has come and gone. Window valences are going out of style, and nowadays, they read more as dated than intentional stylistic choices. Heavy fabrics and gaudy details keep them firmly in previous decades, but there is a way to update them for modern times, especially if you're looking to incorporate grandmillenial style into your kitchen. This new take feels both fresh and vintage-inspired, and it only requires one thrift store find to complete: doilies.

Doilies are another item that saw a major downfall in popularity, but if the trend cycle has taught us anything, it's that what was once considered old can be made new again. Traditional handicrafts like lacemaking and crochet are seeing a boost in popularity in conjunction with the steady rise in appreciation for artisanal, quality goods. Pinterest even boldly proclaimed that, "The doily makes its big debut in 2026, bringing an unexpected elegance to absolutely everything," in its list of predictions for the upcoming year. Because this newfound appreciation is just now starting to gain traction, however, you're still in the sweet spot. Doilies remain a very common find at thrift stores, estate sales, and antique malls, so if you want to try out this elegant DIY, be sure to snap up a few the next time you're out shopping.

There are a few different ways you can go about this project. For a very simple take on the idea, pick up something like these Luluarine Curtain Rings with Clips. Attach your doilies to the clips and slide them onto your existing rod. Layer and adjust as needed, and if a section needs a bit more length, consider pinning or sewing multiple doilies together. This idea will work more easily with large doilies, but smaller ones can be included in the mix, too.

If you've only been able to find smaller doilies, consider going all-in on the sewing idea. Attach them together at the edges with a few stitches to essentially create one large piece of fabric, either using the same clip idea or sewing a channel at the top of the panel for mounting on a rod. It might seem a bit intimidating, but because you don't have to deal with any hemming or pattern work, this is a great introductory sewing project if you're just getting comfortable with hand stitching.

Once you've decided on your basic structure, there are plenty of other ways to make this project your own. Try dyeing the doilies different colors or giving the entire piece an overall wash of dye — doilies are typically made with cotton thread, so they'll take products like Rit All Purpose Dye very well. You can also consider using your doily valence as a topper when layering your curtains. Pair it with a sheer curtain on a window to both let in light and add privacy, or consider placing it over your existing shower curtain to bring more of a vintage touch to a plain design. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative.