Curtain headings play a major role in how your curtains look, feel, and function. From modern S‑Wave designs to classic pinch pleats, the right curtain heading can completely transform a room.
In this guide, our experienced Perth curtain makers explain the most popular curtain heading styles, how each one works, and which option best suits your fabric, room, and lifestyle.
Contents
- How to Choose the Right Curtain Heading
- Curtain Heading Comparison Table
- S‑Wave Curtain Heading
- Pinch Pleat Curtain Heading
- Pencil Pleat Curtain Heading
- Box Inverted Pleat Curtain Heading
- European (Euro) Pleat Curtain Heading
- Tall Soldier Curtain Heading
- Goblet Pleat Curtain Heading
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Expert Curtain Advice in Perth
How to Choose the Right Curtain Heading
Before selecting a curtain heading, it’s important to consider both style and practicality.
When choosing your curtain heading, think about:
- The overall interior style of your home (modern, classic, relaxed or formal)
- The curtain fabric you are using
- Whether the curtains will be on a track or decorative rod
- How much light control and privacy you need
- The room type and ceiling height
Some heading styles work beautifully with sheer-curtains, while others are better suited to heavier blockout or lined curtains.
Curtain Heading Comparison Table
The table below compares the most common curtain heading styles to help you quickly decide which option best suits your home.
| Curtain Heading Style | Best For | Visual Style | Best Fabric Match | Ideal Rooms | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S‑Wave (Ripple Fold) | Modern homes | Clean & minimal | Sheer & wave blockout | Living rooms, bedrooms | Smooth operation, ideal for motorisation |
| Pinch Pleat | Classic interiors | Elegant & structured | Medium to heavy fabrics | Living & dining rooms | Timeless, tailored appearance |
| Pencil Pleat | Flexible budgets | Soft & traditional | Sheer & blockout | Bedrooms, rentals | Adjustable fullness |
| Box Inverted Pleat | Contemporary designs | Sharp & architectural | Heavy fabrics | Feature windows | Neat stack‑back |
| European (Euro) Pleat | Designer homes | Relaxed luxury | Linen & textured fabrics | Living spaces | Soft yet refined |
| Tall Soldier Pleat | High ceilings | Strong vertical lines | Medium weight fabrics | Statement windows | Enhances height |
| Goblet Pleat | Formal rooms | Decorative luxury | Heavy fabrics | Formal areas | Sculptural look |
All of these heading styles are available across our range of custom made curtains, including modern sheer-curtains designed specifically for Perth homes.
S‑Wave Curtain Heading
Clean, modern and highly versatile
Best for
- Contemporary interiors
- Sheer curtains
- Track and motorised systems
S‑Wave (also known as ripple fold) curtains create uniform, flowing waves that glide smoothly along a track. This heading delivers a minimalist look while maintaining excellent light control.
S‑Wave headings are most commonly paired with sheer-curtains, making them ideal for modern living and bedroom spaces.
Pinch Pleat Curtain Heading
Elegant and timeless
Best for
- Formal and classic interiors
- Medium to heavy fabrics
- Decorative rods or tracks
Pinch pleat curtains feature hand‑sewn pleats that create fullness and structure. Available in single, double, or triple pleats, this heading style offers a tailored, sophisticated finish. These can also be created in a number of sizes as touched on in our Parliament House custom made curtains blog post.
Pencil Pleat Curtain Heading
Flexible and cost‑effective
Best for
- Traditional interiors
- Adjustable fullness
- Tracks or rods
Pencil pleat headings use a gathered tape that allows the fullness of the curtain to be adjusted. This makes them a versatile and practical option for a wide range of spaces.
They remain popular for curtains where flexibility and value are priorities.
Box Inverted Pleat Curtain Heading
Sharp, architectural and modern
Best for
- Contemporary homes
- Feature windows
- Clean-lined designs
Box inverted pleats create crisp vertical folds that stack neatly when the curtains are open. This heading works particularly well in minimalist or architecturally designed spaces.
European (Euro) Pleat Curtain Heading
Relaxed luxury with designer appeal
Best for
- Designer and coastal interiors
- Linen and textured fabrics
- Decorative curtain rods
European pleats deliver a softer, more relaxed look than traditional pinch pleats while still retaining structure. They are a favourite choice for contemporary, high‑end interiors.
Tall Soldier Curtain Heading
Bold and vertical
Tall soldier pleats create strong vertical lines, visually enhancing ceiling height. This makes them ideal for rooms with tall windows or architectural features that benefit from added drama.
Goblet Pleat Curtain Heading
Decorative and formal
Goblet pleats are sculpted to hold their shape, offering a luxurious and highly decorative appearance. This style is best suited to formal spaces where curtains are largely stationary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which curtain heading is best for sheer curtains?
S‑Wave and European pleat headings are the most popular choices for sheer curtains, as they create soft folds and allow light to filter beautifully.
Are some curtain headings better for motorised curtains?
Yes. S‑Wave and pinch pleat headings work best with motorised tracks due to their smooth, consistent operation.
Expert Curtain Advice in Perth
Choosing the right curtain heading ensures your curtains look beautiful and function correctly for years to come.
If you’re unsure which style suits your home book an obligation free in‑home meeting or come into our curtain shop for a chat.
