Tall windows are a brilliant feature in any home. They flood rooms with natural light, make ceilings feel higher and give spaces a more architectural feel. The downside is that they are completely unforgiving when it comes to curtain choices. Curtains that are too short, too narrow or hung in the wrong place stand out straight away and can make even the best windows look awkward. When it comes to tall windows, getting the proportions right really does make all the difference.

Why Tall Windows Need a Different Approach

Tall windows naturally draw the eye upward, which means any mistakes become more noticeable. Even a curtain that sits a few centimetres too low or lacks enough fullness can look off. This is why made-to-measure curtains are such a good investment for tall spaces. Standard sizes rarely offer the length or width needed to do these windows justice.

When curtains are sized correctly, tall windows feel elegant and balanced. When they are not, the whole room can start to feel slightly unsettled, even if everything else is right.

Hang Curtains Higher Than You Think

One of the most common mistakes with tall windows is placing the curtain pole too low. Hanging it directly above the window frame cuts off the sense of height and misses an easy opportunity to enhance the proportions of the room.

Placing the pole or track closer to the ceiling draws the eye upward and helps the window feel more generous. Even in rooms that already have high ceilings, this small adjustment can make the overall layout feel far more considered.

Go Full Length Every Time

With tall windows, full-length curtains are essential. Curtains should either skim the floor neatly or break very slightly. Anything that stops short tends to look unfinished and can visually shorten the space.

This is where made-to-measure curtains really come into their own. An exact drop means the curtains work with your flooring, whether you have carpet, wood or tile, and avoids awkward gaps or excessive pooling.

Width Matters More Than You Think

Tall windows are often wide as well, and narrow curtains struggle to cope with that scale. Curtains should extend well beyond the window frame when open so the fabric can stack back properly and leave the glass clear.

As a general guide, the combined width of your curtains should be at least twice the width of the window. Extra fullness works particularly well in tall spaces and creates a softer, more luxurious finish.

Choose the Right Fabric Weight

Fabric choice plays a big role in how curtains behave on tall windows. Lighter fabrics can look airy, but they sometimes lack enough presence for larger windows. Heavier fabrics tend to hang better, hold their shape and suit the scale of tall windows far more naturally.

If warmth is a concern, adding lining or interlining helps with insulation and improves the way the fabric drapes. This is especially helpful in older UK homes where tall windows can lose heat.

Heading Styles That Suit Height

Some heading styles work especially well with added length. Pencil pleat and pinch pleat headings bring structure and sit comfortably on tall drops. Wave headings are also a great option, as they create a smooth, continuous flow from ceiling to floor.

Eyelets can work too, but they need enough fabric to avoid looking stretched or sparse on taller windows.

Colour and Pattern Tips

Vertical lines and subtle patterns can emphasise height in a flattering way. Solid colours also work beautifully, particularly when paired with textured fabrics. Very bold patterns can overwhelm tall windows, so keeping things balanced is important.

If you are unsure, neutral tones with interesting textures are always a safe and elegant choice.

Extra Details That Make a Difference

Ceiling-mounted tracks are a great option for tall windows, as they help maximise the sense of height and keep the overall look clean and streamlined. By fixing the track directly to the ceiling, you avoid breaking up the wall space and allow the curtains to fall in a long, uninterrupted line, which works particularly well in rooms with generous ceiling height.

Colour choice also plays a bigger role than many people realise. Keeping your curtain colour close to your wall colour helps create a more seamless, cohesive look, especially in taller spaces. This approach allows the eye to travel upward without interruption, making the room feel more balanced and considered rather than visually chopped up.

Practical details matter too. Making sure your curtains clear radiators is important for both performance and longevity. Curtains that sit directly over a radiator can trap heat and suffer fabric damage over time, whereas allowing space for heat to circulate helps keep the room comfortable and the curtains in good condition.

With the right height, width, fabric and heading style, made-to-measure curtains can help your tall windows become one of the strongest features in your home. If you want curtains that truly suit your windows and elevate the entire room, buy your made-to-measure curtains from The Sewing House.