Because gray acts as a neutral base, almost any curtain color works. Choose white or cream for an airy feel, navy or dark gray for bold contrast, or warm earth tones like mustard yellow or terracotta to add cozy depth.
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.
Because grey is a versatile neutral, the best color combinations depend on the mood you want to create. To instantly warm up a grey room, pair it with natural wood tones, mustard yellow, or terracotta. For a calming, natural, or sophisticated space, choose sage green, navy blue, or warm neutrals like cream and beige.
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Transform a cold, sterile grey room into a cozy, inviting space by layering in warmth through natural wood tones, rich textiles (like plush rugs and knit blankets), mood-boosting accent colors, and soft ambient lighting.
Steely, cool grays are being replaced by warmer, earthy neutrals. Instead of flat greys, designers are favoring cozy, nature-inspired hues that bring depth and comfort to interiors.
To make gray walls less boring, introduce warmth and contrast through high-contrast accent colors (mustard yellow, emerald green, blush), varied textures (leather, velvet, wood), and metallic accents (gold, bronze). Layer with textured textiles, large art, and warm lighting to add depth and break up the monotony.
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.
Curtain trends prioritize a blend of nature-inspired comfort and layered elegance. Key styles include textured natural fabrics, rich earthy and jewel tones, sheer layering, and dramatic statement hardware.
To make budget curtains look high-end, hang them as close to the ceiling as possible and extend the rod past the window frame. Ensure they are twice the width of the window for fullness, use 4-prong hooks on rings for a tailored pleat, and train the fabric to fall in crisp, weighted folds.
In general, grey doesn't clash with many colors, but pairing it with dark brown, warm neutrals, or certain oranges and reds can create a jarring or muddy look. To get the best results, always pay attention to whether your grey is warm (has yellow/brown undertones) or cool (has blue/purple undertones).
A simple swap to warm white bulbs (look for 2700K–3000K on the box) will have an immediate impact. Natural light will, of course, affect the feel of a room. If it's north-facing or doesn't have much natural light, a room will feel naturally cooler. Consequently, a grey wall may feel even greyer.
Mustard yellow and grey is an influential colour scheme if you are looking to decorate a small room that doesn't receive a lot of light. Moody and atmospheric, the marrying of these darker shades creates a space that feels expensive and opulent.
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.
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.”
Warm, nature-inspired off-whites and "greiges" (a balance of gray and beige) are the most popular wall colors right now. Homeowners are moving away from stark, cold grays in favor of soft, inviting tones that make spaces feel cozy and bright.
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."
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.
Pinch pleat curtains are perfect for elegant, traditional spaces like formal dining rooms, living rooms, or master bedrooms. Their tailored, evenly spaced pleats create a polished, timeless look.
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Martha Stewart, 83, has nothing to hide. She's always been unabashedly candid about her life and career, including her divorce and her 2005 stint in prison for insider trading. And now, the lifestyle guru is opening up about being diagnosed with the autoimmune disease vitiligo for the very first time.
Martha Stewart's energizing morning routine
While many of her retired peers are leaning into leisurely retirements, Stewart treats her mornings as a launchpad to gain energy for a full workday, despite only getting four hours of sleep a night. “I read the entire New York Times,” she said. “I do all the puzzles.
Avoid mustard, olive green, camel and rust.
The easiest way to choose your fashion colours is to keep in mind that grey hair is enhanced and highlighted by jewel toned colours. Think of your favourite gems ladies. If you stick to those hues, you will look younger and more vibrant.
Cool, flat "millennial" gray is out of style, as interiors have shifted toward warmer, earthy, and more welcoming neutrals. However, gray is still used when adapted with warm undertones and rich textures.
Grey is a versatile neutral that pairs perfectly with warm tones like mustard yellow, blush pink, and navy blue, or with natural textures like warm woods and brass accents. The best colors to use depend on your undertones and the mood you want to achieve.