Upgrading grommet curtains can be done easily and affordably without buying entirely new drapes. The best method depends on your desired look: hide the grommets using curtain rings and clips, physically remove the metal grommets for a tailored top, or use simple accessories to improve their hang.
To make grommet curtains look high-end, hang the rod as close to the ceiling as possible and extend it wide so the panels clear the window frame. Train the fabric into deep, uniform folds using cylindrical spacers (like toilet paper rolls or foam pipe insulation) between the eyelets on the rod.
Yes, interior designers broadly consider grommet (or eyelet) curtains outdated. Today's design trends prioritize sleek, custom aesthetics, whereas grommets can appear mass-produced, floppy, and stiff.
Grommet curtains have been considered less refined due to the exposed curtain rod, which some people find less elegant compared to styles like pinch pleated curtains that hide the rod.
Grommet curtains are falling out of favor in modern interior design. While they were once the go-to standard for a casual, contemporary aesthetic, many interior designers now consider them dated, associating the exposed metal rings with rental properties or mass-produced, budget-friendly decor.
Grommet curtains can sometimes look cheap or mass-produced, but they don't have to. Their appearance largely depends on the fabric weight, the hardware you pair them with, and the overall style of your space.
6 Curtain Styles Designers Avoid—and What They Use Instead
Curtain trends in 2026 are shifting from purely functional covers to architectural statement pieces. The top looks emphasize rich, natural textures, layered depth, warm neutral and earth-toned palettes, and smart home integration to bring quiet luxury and character to interior spaces.
Grommet curtains have fallen out of favor because interior design has shifted toward softer, more tailored aesthetics. The exposed metal rings and stiff, repeating waves can look mass-produced, stark, and overly casual. Furthermore, the large top rings are frequently compared to shower curtains, making them feel less intentional and sophisticated.
Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy. Others feature windows framed by exterior shutters, operable versions of which can also be used for light control, ventilation and privacy.
Thankfully, Stewart was quick to ease our curtain concerns. She says, “They're beautiful, I don't have anything against them, I just don't live with them… I like to look outside. Every window [in my home] looks out to something nice, and it's just all open to the view.”
Window treatments are currently dominated by layered textiles, biophilic materials (like woven woods and linen), and smart automation. If you are looking to update your space, top trends include automated shades, textured Roman shades, and floor-to-ceiling drapery featuring rich trims and patterns.
Interior design trends in 2026 are shifting away from stark minimalism and cool grays toward warmer, highly personalized spaces. The year's defining aesthetic prioritizes comfort, craftsmanship, organic shapes, and a "lived-in" feel that celebrates natural materials, rich earth tones, and tactile finishes.
Curtains usually look cheap because of flimsy, unlined fabrics, insufficient width (looking like a "flat sheet" when closed), or a length that stops too short above the floor. Additionally, plastic hardware and visible metal grommets often detract from an elevated design, making budget curtains stand out negatively.
There are no hard rules, but interior designers usually recommend picking curtains that are 1 to 2 shades lighter or darker than your walls for a seamless, dimensional look.
Hanging grommet curtains with sheer creates a cozy and luxurious window styling. This unique combination of classic curtains provides layering, movement, and texture.
Grommet curtains are not inherently tacky, but they do have a very casual, contemporary look. While some interior designers consider them mass-produced and less refined than pleated styles, they remain highly functional and can look great in modern, transitional, or minimalist spaces.
In the U.S., the uncovered window is perhaps less an expression of communal trust than one of personal protection. Wealthier homeowners, who can also afford state-of- the-art security systems, may not feel that they need shades. These curtainless windows have become one of our subtlest statements of privilege.
Yes, curtains are incredibly stylish. Moving past bare minimalism, modern window treatments have evolved into major, mood-setting statement pieces. The 2026 design landscape focuses on warmth, "quiet luxury," and architectural integration.
Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated. "Avoid overly ornate valances, which can feel dated and heavy," says interior designer Danielle Chiprut. "They can feel at odds with today's preference for light, airy interiors."
LUCKY COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026 TRANSFORMATIVE TEAL.
Curtain trends focus on adding warmth, dimension, and personality to spaces. Designers are favoring rich textures (like linen and velvet), layered treatments (pairing sheers with heavier drapes), floor-to-ceiling lengths, and bold patterns.
The most popular styles are Grommet (or Eyelet) and Rod Pocket.
Are Sheer Curtains Outdated? No, sheer curtains are not outdated; they are currently on-trend and a popular choice for a soft, airy look, especially when layered with other window treatments. They are versatile for both modern and traditional styles and offer a way to filter light and provide a subtle sense of privacy.
Yes, for interior design and window treatments, grommet curtains are generally considered outdated and mass-produced. Many designers associate the exposed metal rings with a "starter apartment" or shower-curtain aesthetic, noting that they create stiff folds rather than a soft, tailored look.