When summer finally arrives, we all rush to throw open the windows, dust off the garden furniture and convince ourselves we’ll spend every evening outdoors.

Then comes the reality.

That beautiful south-facing living room suddenly feels like a conservatory. The bedroom turns into a sauna. And the afternoon sun starts making your favourite chair look less inviting and more like a slow cooker.

Thankfully, the right window dressings can make a huge difference.

At Sewing House, we’re often asked what the best curtains for summer are. The answer isn’t always as simple as choosing the lightest fabric you can find. In fact, keeping a room comfortable during warmer months is often just as much about fit, layering and installation as it is about fabric.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Summer Curtains Matter More Than You Think

Many homeowners focus on cooling systems when temperatures rise, but your windows are often the biggest source of unwanted heat.

Sunlight passing through glass creates a greenhouse effect, gradually raising the temperature of your room throughout the day.

The right made-to-measure curtains can help by:

• Reducing solar heat gain
• Softening harsh sunlight
• Improving comfort
• Protecting furniture from UV damage
• Creating a brighter, more relaxed summer aesthetic

And let’s be honest, they look considerably better than taping cardboard to the windows.

Linen Curtains: The Summer Favourite

If summer had an official curtain fabric, linen would probably win by a landslide.

Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly elegant, linen curtains have become one of the most sought-after choices for homeowners wanting a relaxed seasonal look.

The beauty of linen lies in its ability to filter sunlight gently rather than block it completely.

This creates bright rooms without the harsh glare that can make spaces feel uncomfortable during the middle of the day.

Popular summer shades include:

• Soft ivory
• Natural linen
• Warm beige
• Sage green
• Duck egg blue
• Pale stone

These lighter tones help reflect sunlight while creating the airy atmosphere people naturally associate with summer interiors.

Sheer Curtains and Voiles for Light-Filled Spaces

If your goal is to maximise natural light while maintaining privacy, sheer curtains and voiles are difficult to beat.

They allow daylight to flood through the room while softening the intensity of direct sunshine.

They’re particularly effective in:

• Garden rooms
• Dining rooms
• Conservatories
• Living rooms
• Open-plan spaces

Many homeowners also layer sheers behind heavier made-to-measure curtains, creating a versatile setup that works throughout the year.

Open and bright during summer.

Warm and cosy during winter.

Perfect.

Blackout Blinds Aren’t Just for Winter

When people hear the term blackout blinds, they often think of cosy winter evenings and keeping the cold at bay.

In reality, blackout blinds can be one of the smartest additions to your home during the summer months.

With the sun rising earlier and staying brighter for longer, bedrooms can quickly become flooded with light long before you’re ready to start the day. South-facing rooms can also become uncomfortably warm as sunlight streams through the windows.

Blackout blinds help to:

• Reduce unwanted light
• Improve sleep quality
• Limit solar heat gain
• Create a cooler, more comfortable environment
• Reduce glare on screens and televisions

The best part?

Today’s blackout blinds are available in a huge range of colours, patterns and fabric finishes. Whether you prefer a simple neutral roller blind, a contemporary printed design or a textured fabric finish, you can enjoy all the practical benefits of blackout blinds without compromising on style.

Thermal Curtains: The Secret Summer Hero

Thermal curtains often get overlooked during warmer months.

Which is slightly unfair because they’re incredibly effective.

Thermal linings create a barrier between your room and the heat outside, helping to prevent solar warmth from entering through the glass.

This means:

• Cooler rooms in summer
• Better energy efficiency
• Reduced reliance on fans
• Improved comfort all day long

And when winter eventually returns, they’ll help retain heat too.

Two benefits. One investment.

The Biggest Mistake Homeowners Make

Here’s something that surprises many people.

The fabric itself isn’t always the biggest factor.

Fit often matters more.

We’ve seen plenty of expensive curtains that perform poorly because they weren’t installed correctly.

Common mistakes include:

• Curtain poles that are too narrow
• Curtains that barely cover the glass
• Gaps around the edges
• Curtains that finish above the floor

All of these allow heat and sunlight to sneak into the room.

Professionally fitted made-to-measure curtains solve these problems by ensuring complete coverage where it’s needed most.

Why Made-to-Measure Curtains Perform Better

Unlike ready-made alternatives, made-to-measure curtains are created specifically for your windows.

That means:

• Better coverage
• Improved insulation
• Reduced light leakage
• Enhanced appearance
• Superior functionality

They don’t just look better.

They work harder too.

Whether you’re dressing a large bay window, French doors or expansive bifolds, the right fit can dramatically improve comfort during the summer months.

Should You Keep Curtains Closed During Summer?

Generally speaking, yes.

During the hottest part of the day, closing curtains on sun-facing windows helps reduce heat build-up inside the home.

A simple routine often works best:

• Open curtains during cooler mornings
• Close them during peak afternoon sun
• Reopen during the evening

Combined with the right fabrics and linings, this can make a surprisingly noticeable difference.

Our Top Tips for Choosing Summer Curtains

If you’re looking for the perfect summer window dressing, here’s our quick checklist:

Choose lighter colours

Whites, creams, sage greens and soft blues help reflect sunlight.

Consider breathable fabrics

Linen and cotton blends are ideal for creating airy summer interiors.

Layer your treatments

Combine sheers, Roman blinds and curtains for maximum flexibility.

Focus on fit

Made-to-measure curtains provide better coverage and improved performance.

Think long-term

Choose quality fabrics and craftsmanship that will look beautiful year after year.

The Best Summer Curtains Start with the Right Fit

While linen, sheers, blackout linings and thermal fabrics all have their advantages, the real secret to cooler rooms often comes down to proper fitting and thoughtful design.

At Sewing House, our made-to-measure curtains are crafted to suit your exact windows, ensuring you enjoy the perfect combination of comfort, style and performance.

Because summer should be about enjoying the sunshine, not hiding from it.