For inside-mount blinds, the blind should be slightly shorter than the window frame (about 14 14 to 12 12 inch narrower) to fit properly.
For optimal light control and privacy, outside mount blinds should be 3 to 6 inches wider (1.5–3 inches on each side) and 2 to 3 inches longer (at the top and bottom) than the window frame. This overlap covers the frame completely, reduces light gaps, and makes the window appear larger.
Blinds in style for 2026 lean toward natural, eco-friendly materials and high-tech motorized convenience. The hottest trends focus on ultra-matte finishes, organic textures, outside-mounted Roman shades, and smart home automation that optimizes energy efficiency.
When installing blinds, the distance from the window depends entirely on your mounting style. For inside mounts, the blinds sit inside the frame; for outside mounts, they typically sit 222 to 333 inches above and beyond the window frame to block light and ensure smooth operation.
Yes, for your blinds to work to greatest effect and to achieve the right visual finish, window blinds should rest on the windowsill. The only exception to this is vertical blinds which require a small amount of clearance to prevent the louvres from dragging on the windowsill when operated.
Martha Stewart avoids curtains in her homes because she is an early riser who relies on the morning sun to wake up naturally. She also prefers unobstructed, panoramic views of her outdoor landscapes and uses minimalist shades to protect her furniture and rugs from fading rather than heavy drapery.
The newest trends in window coverings focus on smart motorization, natural eco-friendly fabrics, and layered dimensions. Homeowners are blending high-tech functionality with sustainable, organic textures to create spaces that feel both elevated and grounding.
Factory Deductions: Inside mounted products have a light gap between 1/8” and 1/4” on either side of the window – this gap is required in order for the product to operate properly.
Martha Stewart famously doesn't use traditional curtains in her homes, joking she could write a book titled "A House With No Curtains." Instead of heavy drapery, she prefers clean sightlines and opts for options that maximize natural light.
The most popular blinds right now prioritize clean aesthetics, safety, and smart functionality. Leading options include cordless faux wood blinds for moisture resistance, minimalist roller shades for a sleek look, light-filtering woven wood shades for natural texture, and motorized/smart blinds for seamless home automation.
To instantly modernize your space, skip stiff, overly formal window treatments and cheap "quick-fix" drapes. Designers recommend avoiding grommet headings, bulky valances, and sterile stark white fabrics in favor of warmer palettes, natural textures, and tailored pleats.
If your blinds are too long, you can easily fix them by removing the excess slats, untying the lift cords, and repositioning the bottom rail. This DIY project takes about 15–30 minutes and requires only a flathead screwdriver and a pair of scissors.
Current blind trends prioritize clean aesthetics, smart technology, and sustainability. Leading the market are motorized shades for home automation, natural woven materials (like bamboo and wood), and sleek cordless blinds that offer a minimalist profile.
The most popular blind slat size is 2 inches. It is the most versatile option for horizontal blinds (like faux wood or real wood), balancing an open view with excellent privacy for standard windows.
Yes, neighbors can often see into your home at night if your blinds are tilted, partially open, or made of thin material. Because your interior lights make your room much brighter than the dark outside, anyone looking in can easily see clear shadows, silhouettes, or specific details.
Whether your blinds should face up or down depends on your immediate goal—whether you are trying to block harsh summer heat, maximize privacy, or filter light.
Yes, you can see out but prevent people from seeing in. This effect relies on the lighting; it works perfectly during the day when it is brighter outside than it is inside your home.
Aluminum mini blinds are especially popular for 2026. They're lightweight but durable, and they hold their shape far better than vinyl or plastic blinds. They also resist moisture and heat, which makes them perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or sunrooms.
Joanna Gaines typically uses natural, neutral window treatments like airy linen or cotton curtains, woven wood or bamboo Roman shades, and bifold plantation shutters. She is known to layer these elements—often pairing a natural shade with a simple curtain—and hangs panels high and wide to make windows appear larger.
Curtains are absolutely in style for 2026, shifting away from basic functional pieces to striking statement features. Instead of blending into the background, modern curtains are designed to frame windows with deep colors, heavy textures, and traditional details.
Martha Stewart recently went on the In Bed with Paige DeSorbo Amazon livestream and dropped a hot take about how often she swaps her bedding. Stewart revealed that she has her sheets changed every two to three days.
Martha Stewart has been diagnosed with vitiligo, an autoimmune skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment.
Outdated window treatments are generally those that look flimsy, overly cluttered, or overly utilitarian. Specifically, vertical blinds, flimsy aluminum mini-blinds, grommet-style (eyelet) drapes, and traditional valances or swags are considered dated.