Top treatments are a form of window treatment traditionally made from ornamental draped fabric or wood upholstered with fabric. They are secured at the top of the window to add flair and sophistication to a room and improve design scheme cohesion. Top window treatments are also frequently used as a tasteful cover for hardware that holds soft or hard window under-treatments.

You can use top treatments to complement drapes, Roman shades, roller shades, and blinds or as standalone treatments for the top — and sometimes sides! — of your windows. In other words, they can be the cherry on top or act as a crown: the only accessory needed to draw the eye to the beauty underneath.

Like all soft furnishings we design and fabricate at The Pinched Pleat, our top treatments are endlessly customizable and can be tailored to any style. We take pride in creating classic top treatments while maintaining an eye for contemporary detail. Keep reading to learn about the different styles of top treatments, including valances, faux Roman shades, pelmets, soft cornices, cantonnières, lambrequins, indoor awnings, and swags and jabots.

Choosing Your Style: Exploring Options in Top Window Treatments

Top treatments make any space feel more stylistically coordinated regardless of whether you pair them with other window treatments. These treatments make a statement, and the specifics of that statement are entirely up to you. If you like the old-fashioned look, we can make lambrequins in the classic medieval style, or you prefer a sleek, modern pelmet or a romantic, relaxed set of swags and jabots.

The versatility of top treatments makes them a perfect finishing touch for draperies and Roman shades. They also double as a method of concealment for hardware you’d rather not see. Additionally, a top treatment that covers the upper edge of your window can make the window seem elongated because the eye does not stop as abruptly at the top frame. There’s an element of mystery regarding how high the window stretches, aided by a softer transition from the pane to the wall above.

One treatment top style may suit your needs better than another, so look below to discover your ideal top treatment.

Cascades

Cascades are vertical fabric strips that hang from swag ends, enhancing window elegance and formality. Their length and fullness vary to suit the window's size and desired impact, adding sophistication. Typically made from the same fabric as the swag for uniformity, you can use contrasting materials for a dramatic effect. This window treatment is common in formal spaces like living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms, contributing to a traditional, elegant decor.

Jabots

Jabots are often pleated to create a cascading effect, complement swags, and extend the window treatment with fabric tails along the sides. These curves form a display of striking elegance. Adding jabots enhances the window's dimensional depth and adds a layer of visual texture that can transform a room’s aesthetic from simple to luxuriously intricate.

Discover the Midwest's Favorite Window Top Treatments

The world of window treatments is ever-evolving, with various styles coming in and out of vogue. Specific top treatments have stood the test of time in the Midwest due to their adaptability and aesthetic charm. Here's a glimpse into our clients' most sought-after styles:

№ 1 | Valances: A Timeless Favorite

Valances are in high demand because they blend seamlessly with various interior designs. Box pleat valances and faux Roman shades are in high demand for their classic look and ease of integration into any space.

№ 2 | Pelmets and Soft Cornices: Unique & Tailored

Far from the standard straight-edged designs, today's pelmets and soft cornices break the mold with creative contours, including pagoda shapes, elegant scallops, and graceful arches. These statement pieces often feature eye-catching details like contrasting banding and luxurious tassels.

№ 3 | Swags: A Modern Revival

Swags are experiencing a comeback with a modern twist. The preference now is for box swags, which are less elaborate than their predecessors from the '80s and '90s. The updated swags are streamlined, often forgoing the traditional jabots for a cleaner, more contemporary look.

While trends play a significant role in the popularity of these top treatments, they are also chosen for their practical benefits. They offer insulation against drafts and effectively conceal the light gaps that can occur when a Roman shade is mounted inside a window frame. Whether driven by style or function, valances, pelmets, and swags continue to be the top picks for enhancing the ambiance of a room.

Talk to Us About Top Treatments

The Pinched Pleat is experienced with designing and fabricating all of the top treatments described above, and we’re also well-seasoned in giving suggestions. It can be overwhelming to wade through the options alone, so set up a complimentary initial consultation or e-mail us for assistance. 

We can’t wait to hear about your interior design goals and recommend a top treatment to help you achieve them!

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