The best valance, when combined with matching or contrasting drapes, can really put the finishing touch on your window treatment. Alternatively, using just a valance on windows where you don't need privacy, can offer a polished look while letting as much light in as possible. From ones that block light to lacy designs offering a more feminine look, we have a great selection of the best valances available now.
No. 918 Alison floral lace valance
A light and lacy choice
This popular choice is sold as a 32-by-58-inch valance, with matching panels also available. This design looks very appealing when you pair two valances together as per the image. This is a practical 100 percent polyester choice that can go in the washing machine. The valance has a rod pocket design, so it will hang on most standard curtain poles.
Lush Decor Rowley birds valance
Contemporary and chic
We like Lush Decor's fresh and contemporary curtain fabrics and this valance is no exception. It features brightly colored patterned birds on a wire, enhancing any view your window may have by adding an avian-inspired theme. This valance measures 18-by-52 inches, plus a 2-inch header. It also has a 3-inch rod pocket for hanging.
Decotex sheer voile scarf valance
Clean and classic
This is a scarf-style valance, meaning you hang it by draping it around the curtain pole, looping it round as many times as suits the look you're trying to achieve. We like this crisp, clean white voile, but Decotex offers this valance in a range of different colors. This valance is available in two sizes: 37-by-216 inches and 54-by-216 inches. Both are very affordable.
Nicetown scalloped tier valance
Made from triple-weave fabric
This is a traditional valance offering a gathered finish for a luxurious look. It is available in over ten colors and comes in a pack of one or four. Each valance measures 18-by-52 inches. This is another rod pocket design with a 2-inch space for the curtain pole. The valance is made from triple-weave fabric, which offers light-blocking and draft-stopping qualities.
DriftAway Julia watercolor floral lined valance
Fully lined, soft material
This valance is also available in blush, grey, and yellow, but we like this classic navy and white option that would look amazing in a kitchen. It measures 18-by-52 inches with a 2-inch header and a 3-inch rod pocket. The valance is made of 100 percent polyester and is machine washable. It is also a fully lined option.
Oremila starfish and seashell valance
Great for bathrooms
This valance from Oremila is perfect for bathrooms or en suites with a nautical theme. Featuring blue seashells and starfish on a white background, it's a light and elegant option. This design measures 15-by-54 inches and has a rod pocket that's 2 inches tall. It is made of polyester and can go in the washing machine.
Sun Zero Barrow valance
Traditional look and feel
This Sun Zero valance is a very affordable and popular choice. It offers some light-blocking properties and a slight noise reduction as well as thermal qualities that keep heat and cold out when needed. This design measures 18-by-54 inches. It is also available in a range of both traditional and more modern colors. If you want to create the ruffled effect you see in the image, you may need to buy several valances.
Turquoize scalloped blackout valance
Scalloping without frills
We like that this valance gives you a classic scalloped look but offers a more modern take on the design. This valance measures 18-by-52 inches. It has a 2-inch header and a 3-inch rod pocket. We like this teal shade, but it is also available in black, white, pink, and various shades of grey. This design is made of polyester and has blackout properties, eliminating up to 90 percent of UV light.
Lush Decor floral valance
Very fashionable colors
Lush Decor offers this same pattern on full-size curtains, but we feel it's a bit overpowering. Instead, you could choose this attractive floral valance and pair it with plain grey or yellow curtains for a more subtle look. This style is made of 100 percent polyester. It measures 18-by 52 inches with a 2-inch header and 3-inch rod pocket.
Ellis Curtain Brissac lined valance
With a neutral lining
With an attractive Jacobean floral design, this style is available as a straight or scalloped valance. The scalloped version measures in at 17-by-a generous-70-inches. There are matching Ellis Curtain panels and tiebacks available too. This valance is made from machine-washable polyester.
Elrene Home Fashions Farmhouse Living check valance
Available in five colors
This valance is part of Erlene's Home Fashions Farmhouse Living Collection and co-ordinates with the rest of the line. The classic buffalo check pattern is timeless and will never go out of date. As well as this blue and white version, this design is available in red, tan, black, and grey checks too. It's made from 100 percent cotton. This measures 15-by-60 inches.
Well-valanced
Why you can trust Real Homes
Our overall best pick is the No. 918 Alison floral lace valance. This must-have option gives your window a delicate, lacy look. It offers some level of privacy but also lets light in.
If you're looking to block light out, then the Sun Zero Barrow valance is worth considering. Another noteworthy product, this is a traditional valance available in a wide range of colors.
Our favorite pattern from this selection has to be the Lush Decor Rowley Birds valance. The sweet birds make for a cute style statement and would work in a living room, bedroom, or office.
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With over 10 years of experience writing for popular websites Amy-Mae is a freelance features writer with a focus on writing reviews, how-tos, and buyers guides. She lives near the sea in Devon with her family, two naughty cats, and two much-loved dogs. Her beloved daughter ensures she has very little spare time but if she manages to wrangle any you'll find her on the sofa watching box sets and drinking gin.