Deciding the best way to frame your windows can be the make-or-break moment of your overall aesthetic. When the decorating is done, the furniture picked, the carpets steamed, and the photographs framed, you are left with the yawning chasm which is your windows. Whether you choose to leave them bare, add sensible, practical blinds, or indulge your inner femininity with ruffles and blush curtains, the way you decide to finish them off determines the overall vibe of the room. Luckily for you, we have put together a list of the best choices to help you make the best selection for your space. 

Curtains are a safe and traditional option, but that doesn't mean they have to be dull. There are a huge of variety of curtain types to choose from, from sweeping, floor-length elegance to short and sensible. They add a soft feeling to window space and can be the perfect balance to a modern or industrial-themed room. On a practical level, adding curtains can also help to make the room warmer, as they help to conserve heat. This makes curtains a good option if you feel the cold quickly, or just need to keep a close eye on your heating bills.

There is a vast range of blind types, so you are bound to find a style which suits you. From office-style verticals to stylish Venetians, blackout roller blinds to just-for-show see-throughs, the style you pick will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. They can be a great way to maintain extra privacy without blocking out the light and can add a chic and elegant feel without the excess fabric of curtains. 

Shutters are another great choice if you are looking to balance privacy with light. From full window options to elegant plantation shutters, these can add a sophisticated, continental feel to any room. They are a great way to control temperature. In the height of summer, they help keep the sun firmly outside, preventing the interior from overheating your home, and give you a cool and refreshing place to relax. In the chilly winter, the opposite is true—stay warm and cosy while keeping the bite of the snow out.

A brave choice, there is, of course, the option to reject any form of window dressing. This can be good if you are looking to make a bold, dramatic statement, or just want to invite maximum light into your room. The drawback of this is that you may experience extremes of temperature; expect a chill in the cold weather and full sunlight in the summer. This can also lead to a room looking a little cold and soulless, so it is essential to consider the rest of your interior very carefully if you opt for this choice. Perhaps balance out the bleak boldness with some softer edges or furnishings elsewhere, such as rugs, throws or cushions, to prevent an environment which feels overly stark and clinical.