10 Stylish Ideas for Curtain Sets 64 x 98 in a Formal Living Room: My personal take on how to style 64 x 98 curtain sets for a sophisticated, functional, and on-trend formal living space

Over the past decade as an interior designer, I've noticed that current interior design trends lean towards impactful yet timeless window treatments—especially in formal living rooms where the look needs to be both stylish and functional. Small changes, like the right curtain sets, can make a big visual difference. I’ve always believed that small design elements can ignite big creativity, and in this article I’m sharing 10 design inspirations for using curtain sets 64 x 98, blending my personal projects with expert-backed insights.

1. Luxurious Velvet Drapes

My Take: I used rich velvet curtains in a client’s formal living room last winter; the texture instantly made the space feel more refined. Velvet feels sumptuous under soft lighting.

Pros: Great for adding thermal insulation and depth; ideal when using curtain sets 64 x 98 to create a floor-to-ceiling look. A 2023 Houzz trend report notes velvet is resurging in popularity for upscale interiors.

Cons: Heavier fabric means more weight on curtain rods, and they require occasional steaming to keep wrinkle-free.

Tip: Try jewel tones like emerald or sapphire for a formal space that pops.

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2. Sheer Layers with Heavy Panels

My Take: Combining sheer curtains with heavier panels has been my go-to for flexible light control. It gives you options for privacy without sacrificing sunlight.

Pros: Versatility in managing natural light; layering creates visual dimension, which is perfect for tall windows with curtain sets 64 x 98.

Cons: More layers mean a slightly busier look; dust management can be trickier.

Case Link: You can see how glass backsplash for a more open feel in kitchen design translates to creating openness with sheers in living rooms.

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3. Tieback Elegance

My Take: I love using decorative tiebacks or holdbacks to change the drape shape. In one project, bronze floral tiebacks brought a sense of formality without overwhelming the fabrics.

Pros: Enhances symmetry and formality; lets you display beautiful fabric textures.

Cons: When tied back, they don’t block as much light, which may be less ideal for media spaces.

Tip: Choose tiebacks that complement metallic finishes in the room for cohesion.

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4. Roman Shade and Curtain Combo

My Take: For one small formal lounge, I paired subtle linen roman shades with dramatic curtains. Guests always commented on the layered sophistication.

Pros: Practical light control and insulation; combining shade and drapes adds depth and can align with seasonal design changes.

Cons: Twice the hardware can increase cost and complexity in installation.

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5. Metallic Sheen Fabrics

My Take: Subtle metallic threading in the weave can catch light and make the room shimmer in the evening.

Pros: Enhances elegance, perfect for dramatic rooms; using curtain sets 64 x 98 in metallic fabrics draws the eye upward, making the ceiling feel higher.

Cons: Can look overly flashy under harsh daylight; not great for minimalists.

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6. Patterned Jacquard Weaves

My Take: I’ve brought nature and classic damask patterns into clients’ homes to match period furniture beautifully.

Pros: Adds personality and complements ornate furnishing; heavier weaves add some insulation value.

Cons: Large patterns might overwhelm smaller rooms.

Case Link: In a recent project, pairing patterned drapes with L-shaped layouts to free up more counter space in adjoining dining areas helped keep visual flow balanced.

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7. Two-Tone Curtains

My Take: Color-blocked or banded curtains help define architectural height and inject personality without bold patterns.

Pros: Good for modern formal living rooms; can visually alter window proportions if needed.

Cons: Crafting a seamless join between colors takes skilled sewing, which may up the budget.

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8. Floor Puddling Length

My Take: Allowing curtains 64 x 98 to puddle elegantly on the floor can create a romantic, luxurious look—especially with silk blends.

Pros: Adds a high-end, soft aesthetic; works beautifully in rarely used formal areas.

Cons: Can collect dust easily and isn’t ideal with pets or small kids.

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9. Smart Curtain Systems

My Take: Motorized rods and tracks are becoming more accessible, adding a modern touch to traditional elegance.

Pros: Convenience; great for very tall windows where manual operation is tough.

Cons: Higher initial cost and requires a power source near the window.

Case Link: This refined practical touch reminds me of integrating wood tones for a warm atmosphere into high-tech spaces—it’s all about blending comfort with function.

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10. Layered Valances

My Take: Decorative valances add architectural interest and can hide less attractive rods.

Pros: Great for very formal traditional styles; can coordinate with upholstery patterns.

Cons: Adds visual weight; may look dated if not chosen carefully.

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Conclusion

To me, a small choice like the right curtain sets 64 x 98 isn’t a limitation—it’s an invitation to make smarter, more personal design decisions. As the American Society of Interior Designers notes, thoughtful layering of materials is key to balancing beauty and function in modern homes. Which of these 10 ideas would you want to try in your own formal living room?

FAQ

Q1: What style of curtain sets 64 x 98 is best for a formal living room?

A: Velvet, jacquard, or layered sheers with heavier panels often work best because they combine elegance with function.

Q2: Should curtain sets touch the floor in a formal living space?

A: For a more formal look, letting them touch or puddle slightly is ideal, though it’s less practical if you have pets.

Q3: How do I choose a color for 64 x 98 curtain sets?

A: Match them to secondary tones in your rug or sofa for cohesion; neutrals or jewel tones are both timeless.

Q4: Can I mix curtain patterns in a formal room?

A: Yes, but balance is key—use one dominant pattern and keep others subtle.

Q5: Are motorized curtains worth it for formal living rooms?

A: If your room has very tall windows or you want added convenience, they can be a great investment.

Q6: How wide should each panel be for a 64-inch window?

A: Ideally, each panel should be 1.5–2 times the window’s width for full fullness.

Q7: What’s the average cost for custom 64 x 98 curtains?

A: Depending on fabric and hardware, prices can range from $150 to $600 per panel according to Architectural Digest.

Q8: Can I use blackout lining with elegant curtain sets?

A: Absolutely—it helps with light control and insulation without altering the external look of the fabric.