Valance or Cornice: Are They in Style and What is the Difference?
When you’re choosing the right window treatment for your home, you may be wondering if valances and cornices are still worth considering. You may even be wondering what they are! Rest assured, valances and cornices are timeless ways to add personality and polish to your windows.
So, what’s the difference between the two — and are they still in style today? We’re giving you all the info you need to help you find the right fit for your space.
What Is a Valance?
A valance is a fabric top treatment that adds color, pattern, and softness to the top of your window. It can be installed on its own or layered over shades, blinds or drapes for a finished look.
Valances come in two main types:
- Board-mounted valances: These are attached to a wooden header and typically have a more structured, tailored look with pleats, swags, or crisp lines.
- Pole-mounted valances: These are mounted on decorative rods and can be gathered, grommeted, or hung with tabs or rings for a softer, more casual style.
Are Valances Still in Style?
Absolutely! Valances remain a popular choice when customized with current fabrics, patterns, and colors. They are an excellent way to make your windows look more finished and polished. The key is to stay away from dated looks like heavy ruffles or busy swags from decades past. Instead, opt for clean lines, simple designs, and trending colors or prints that complement your space.
Popular valance styles today include:
- Sleek, straight-across designs
- Subtle pleats and tailored folds
- Neutral tones with bold textures
- Statement patterns used sparingly
What Is a Cornice?
A cornice is a top treatment similar to a valance, but with a more structured construction. Cornices are made of wood or a box frame covered in fabric and batting, giving them a sleek, upholstered appearance. The result is a tailored, polished look that requires no fussing or adjusting.
Key features of cornices:
- Clean, structured lines
- Smooth surfaces ideal for showcasing bold prints or geometric patterns
- Custom shapes or arches to add visual interest
- Added depth to hide hardware like motorized drapery rods or shades
Why Choose a Cornice?
Cornices offer a modern, sophisticated alternative to valances. Their structured design always looks crisp and wrinkle-free. They’re also a great choice for large windows or multiple shades, tying everything together under one elegant frame.
Cornices can be upholstered in a wide range of fabrics — from bold patterns to lush velvets — or constructed from stained wood for a classic touch. They’re particularly popular in spaces where you view windows from above, like staircases or second-story landings, because the top remains neatly covered. They are also a good choice to go over room-darkening drapery to help seal light gaps from the top of the drapery.
Valance vs. Cornice: Which Is Right for You?
- Go with a valance if you love soft, flowing fabric, want to add color and texture, and prefer a casual or transitional style.
- Choose a cornice if you’re looking for a sleek, structured statement piece that hides hardware and adds a polished look to large or formal spaces.
Both valances and cornices are timeless window treatments that can be easily updated to match current styles. The right choice comes down to your design preferences and how you want your windows to feel — soft and casual or tailored and refined.
Ready to Update Your Windows?
Our local Budget Blinds design experts can help you choose the perfect fabrics, styles, and details to transform your windows. Schedule a complimentary in-home consultation today.
- Need inspiration? Visit our website or Download our free Design Guide.
- Find your local Budget Blinds consultant here and let’s bring your vision to life!
