Then vs. Now: Valances & Cornices — Then and Now

Top treatments never really went away — they just got quieter. The heavy scalloped valances of previous decades have been re-drawn as slim upholstered cornices that finish a window without shouting.

A traditional-design revival — drapery, cornices, tassels — has been blended with modern restraint. The current preference is for finished, tailored windows without the ornate scallops and matched trims of earlier decades.

Choose a straight upholstered cornice in a warm neutral fabric, sized to just clear the shade beneath. Skip the scalloped bottom edge and matched trims — the point is a quiet, tailored finish.

Frequently asked questions

Are valances back in style?

In an updated form, yes. The current version is a clean upholstered cornice rather than a ruffled or scalloped valance.

Do I need a cornice on every window?

No — cornices work well over motorized shades or where you want to hide hardware. On simple windows a well-mounted shade alone is fine.

What fabric should a modern cornice use?

Linen, linen-blend or a subtle velvet in a warm neutral. Matching your drapery is optional — a coordinating solid usually works best.

Can you help me update the look of my windows?

Yes. Our team offers free in-home consultations across Halifax and Charlottetown, and virtual consultations anywhere in Canada and the U.S. We bring real swatches and quote current-trend options side-by-side.