What is a valance?
A valance is a type of fabric window treatment installed at the top of a window. Valances can be either very tailored, mimicking the look of a pulled-up shade, or they can be very drapey and flowy with a swaged or scalloped appearance. There are dozens of different ways to style a valance, ranging from voluminous balloon styles to scallops interspersed with rosettes. Oftentimes, valances are partnered with another type of window treatment such as drapes or a roller rade to create a functional and layered effect. Valances are traditionally hung above windows with a drapery rod, but some styles can be mounted on the interior of a window. Most valances will come equipped with a drapery rod pocket in order to be slid on a rod. This allows the rod to be hidden from view and provides a polished-looking effect. Valances can be constructed of virtually any material, but some of the most commonly used fabrics are silk, cotton, linen, satin, velvet, and polyester.
Lead photo by Laurey Glenn