How to Choose the Perfect Trim for Your Curtains

Curtain trim is one (and, in fact, the best) way to take your curtains, and the overall space, to the next level. “Trim is one of those hints in a room that conveys a designer’s touch,” says Kevin of Kevin Francis Design. “It is a non-negotiable custom detail that adds a level of tailored polish to a curtain design.” 

Note that there are plenty of trim types to choose from. It is, therefore, super important to take into account the overall aesthetic of the room, and determine the type of fabric you will use, all before deciding whether to opt for pom poms, tassels, bands, or rick rack (all popular types of trim).

Continue reading to learn all about our curtain trim choices + how they’re best used.

Rick Rack

With its playful, squiggy shape, rick rack trim is a favourite for kids’ rooms but can also be styled for adult spaces. The wavy silhouette instantly makes curtains feel more “done,” and adds personality without needing a loud print or a heavy fabric.

The trick is choosing the correct scale. Thin rick rack feels delicate; wide rick rack looks graphic and more statement-making.

Rick rack also works best when it’s used with intention. The easiest placement is the leading edge of the curtain panels, since it frames the window and shows up clearly when the curtains are open. You can also add it to the bottom hem for a subtle finish.

Bullion Fringe

Bullion fringe is the trim you choose when you want curtains to look rich, a choice that instantly makes a window feel more layered. Even on a plain fabric, bullion fringe adds that “custom drapery” finish that reads expensive from across the room.

This trim has weight, too, which is why it works best on medium to heavy fabrics like velvet or thicker linen. It might look a bit awkward on lighter sheers, though, as it pulls the fabric down awkwardly, so you’d want to make sure the curtain can actually support it.

The most common (+ polished) look is a bullion fringe along the bottom hem, because it gives the curtains a grounded, tailored finish. It also looks stunning down the leading edge if you want a more decorative, traditional vibe, especially in formal spaces like dining rooms.

The easiest way to keep bullion fringe from feeling too “old-school” is colour choice. Tone-on-tone fringe looks chic, while contrast fringe is truly striking. Both work, but you want it to match the energy of the room.

Tassels

As traditional British interiors surge in popularity, tassels are having a major moment. They can be styled to look festive and fun, but can also be incorporated into more formal rooms. The trim is decorative, yes, but it also gives curtains that “collected” look, as if the room has a rich history.

Unlike rick rack (which feels graphic) or bullion fringe (which feels heavy & luxe), tassels sit in the middle. They’re ornamental, but still easy to live with.

This trim is also great if your curtains feel a little “flat.” Plain panels can sometimes look like an afterthought, especially in rooms with strong furniture or statement lighting. Tassels fix that fast with a lovely finished edge. Plus, they pair really well with natural fabrics like linen and cotton; the contrast between “casual fabric” and “dressy trim” is what makes the whole thing feel styled.

Piping Cords

If trims like tassels and fringe are the “jewellery,” piping cord is the tailoring- clean & structured, but powerful. The kind of detail that doesn’t scream for attention, but makes the curtains look more custom instantly.

Piping is basically a corded edge that creates a crisp outline. It gives the curtain panels definition, almost like drawing a fine line around them; a great addition to rooms that lean architectural, where you still want interest, but don’t want anything too frilly or busy.

It also works beautifully when you’re trying to sharpen up softer fabrics. Linen curtains can sometimes read a little too relaxed. Add piping, and suddenly they look more polished, and more “designer picked this” 😉

Pom Poms

It’s soft and whimsical, plus irresistible. We love pom pom trim for cosy areas, especially a nursery or bedroom. These are also great for vibrant, colour-forward spaces. They lean into that “more is more” mood without looking overdone, especially when you keep the curtain fabric simple and let the trim do the fun part.

If you’re looking for curtain trim that gives a lived-in but styled finish, this is it 🩷

Beaded Fringe

If you want curtains that feel a little extra (in the best way), beaded fringe is the move. The Belleforge style has that soft swing you get from fringe, but with added sparkle and texture from the beads. Your window treatment will look way more dressed up ✨

This trim is especially gorgeous in the evening, and because it has movement (and a bit of weight), beaded fringe looks best when it’s used as a finishing touch along the bottom hem.

Style-wise, this trim is perfect for spaces that need a hint of glamour… moody bedrooms, formal dining rooms, or living rooms that already have a little shine in the mix (mirrors, metallic accents, glossy ceramics).

Chainette Curtain Trim

Chainette trim is pure drama, but still elegant. It has that long, fluid movement that makes curtains feel more theatrical, so they sway when you walk past, giving the whole window a little more life.

Also, because it’s usually longer (like 10cm), chainette trim works best when you treat it like a feature. Add it to the bottom edge and let it be seen. It looks especially good on full-length curtains that puddle slightly or just skim the floor.

Braided

Braided trim is the definition of quiet detail. It doesn’t flutter, but it makes the window (and the whole room) a lot sharper. Refined up close, simply polished across the room.

This is the trim that works when everything else in the room is already doing the most. Patterned wallpaper, statement art, busy rugs, layered furniture… braid won’t fight any of it, but will just add a neat border so the curtains don’t fade into the background.

Bonus points if you’re using a fan-edge braid. That scalloped edge gives the room a decorative shape without committing to full fringe.

Bands

Designers and homeowners enjoy working with banded trims, too. It’s actually a great trick to introduce another colour in the room without being too matchy-matchy or literal. That said, bands can also be an incredible way to play with your favourite neutrals. In fact, a neutral, textured banding on the leading edges of plain white curtains brings an absolutely sophisticated vibe.

Final Words

Curtain trim is gorgeous, but it’s also one of those details that can go from “designer finish” to “why does this look off?” really fast. So before you order metres of it and start stitching, do a quick reality check. Think of what you want the trim to do, then sample your chosen style (not just the fabric, the trim too!). And lastly, don’t feel like you have to trim everything. One clean edge or bottom detail can be enough.