8 Best Velvet Window Panels Influencers Praise
Velvet Window Panels: The Lifestyle Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed
Isn’t it funny how a single change—maybe swapping out those old curtains for velvet window panels—can make your whole space feel brand new? As someone who’s obsessed with home decor (and spends way too much time watching design YouTubers), I know firsthand how soft furnishings like velvet curtains can transform not just the look but the feel of your home. Whether you’re curling up with a book, hosting friends, or just craving a cozy retreat, the right window panels bring both style and function to your everyday.
If you’ve ever wondered which velvet curtains influencers actually love—not just the ones they mention in passing—this guide is for you. I’ve rounded up eight velvet window panels that top YouTube home gurus consistently praise, and I’ll share what makes each one stand out (plus a few stories from my own living room). So, grab your coffee and let’s get into it.
1. Pottery Barn Velvet Curtain Panel
Why Influencers Are Obsessed
I first saw these on Studio McGee’s channel, and honestly, I understood the hype immediately. The Pottery Barn Velvet Curtain Panel is what you’d call “quiet luxury”—the kind that doesn’t scream for attention but effortlessly elevates your space.
- Material: 100% cotton velvet; thick, plush, and surprisingly soft.
- Colors: Seven choices, including Slate, Platinum, and Blush.
- Dimensions: Available in 48″x84″, 48″x96″, and 48″x108″.
- Features: Rod pocket and hidden tabs for versatile hanging.
Visual Impact
The texture is rich and tactile. When sunlight hits the fabric, it creates the subtlest shimmer—just enough to catch your eye without looking shiny or cheap. I personally went with the Platinum shade for my bedroom, and it instantly added a feeling of coziness and sophistication.
Functionality
They’re also lined, which means better insulation (especially during winter) and more privacy. I noticed my room felt warmer after hanging them—no more cold drafts sneaking in!
Pro Tip
If you want that Pinterest-worthy “puddle” effect, go for the longer length and let them drape softly on the floor. It’s an easy way to make your windows look taller.
2. West Elm Cotton Velvet Curtain
Recommended by: Mr. Kate
On her channel, Mr. Kate swears by the West Elm Cotton Velvet Curtain for its luxe vibe and eco-friendly credentials.
- Material: Sustainably sourced cotton velvet.
- Colors: Peacock Blue, Forest Green, Charcoal, Dusty Blush.
- Dimensions: 48″x84″, 48″x96″, 48″x108″.
- Features: Pole pocket with back tab; blackout lining available.
Style & Texture
These curtains have a weighty drape that feels expensive. The colors are deep and saturated—Peacock Blue is a showstopper if you want drama.
My Experience
I put the Forest Green panels in my home office, and every Zoom call gets compliments! They block light beautifully (especially if you opt for blackout lining), making them perfect for movie nights or bedrooms.
Why Buy?
If sustainability matters to you, this is a great choice. The velvet is soft but not shiny, giving that understated glam influencers love.
3. Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose Velvet Curtain
Recommended by: Lone Fox
Drew from Lone Fox loves Anthropologie’s Gleaming Primrose Velvet Curtain for its romantic vibe. These panels are pure eye candy.
- Material: Polyester velvet for extra durability.
- Colors: Dusty Rose, Moss, Gold, Ivory.
- Dimensions: 52″x84″, 52″x96″, 52″x108″.
- Features: Rod pocket; light filtering.
Aesthetic Qualities
The sheen is luminous but never gaudy. The Moss color is earthy and grounding, while Gold adds instant warmth.
My Take
I hung these in my dining room (went with Ivory), and the way they catch evening light makes dinner feel extra special. They’re not blackout—but they do soften harsh sunlight beautifully.
Features You’ll Love
Easy care (machine washable!) means you don’t have to stress about everyday messes. And that plush texture? It feels as good as it looks.
4. Rivet Modern Velvet Room Darkening Curtain
Recommended by: House & Home
House & Home’s editors often feature Rivet’s Modern Velvet Curtains in their makeovers because they balance style and practicality so well.
- Material: Polyester velvet; midweight.
- Colors: Navy Blue, Olive Green, Gray.
- Dimensions: 52″x84″, 52″x96″.
- Features: Grommet top; room-darkening lining.
Style Meets Function
These are ideal if you want serious light control without sacrificing style. The grommet top makes them easy to slide open or closed—no fussing around in the morning!
My Review
I used Navy Blue in my guest room. Guests always comment on how restful the space feels, thanks to the room-darkening quality. Plus, they’re budget-friendly compared to some high-end brands.
Good to Know
If you’re new to velvet curtains, these are a safe bet—they’re durable and fuss-free, great for high-traffic areas.
5. Half Price Drapes Signature Velvet Blackout Curtains
Recommended by: XO MaCenna
MaCenna raves about Half Price Drapes for their luxury look at an affordable price point—and I couldn’t agree more!
- Material: Polyester velvet with blackout lining.
- Colors: Burgundy, Teal Blue, Taupe, Emerald Green.
- Dimensions: Multiple lengths from 84” to 120”.
- Features: Rod pocket; heavy blackout lining.
Luxe Look for Less
You get that rich velvet texture (it’s genuinely soft!) plus total darkness when you need it. The Emerald Green is bold and beautiful—I chose Taupe for my living room to keep things neutral but elegant.
Practical Performance
They’re heavy enough to insulate against heat/cold and block out street noise. If you live in an apartment or busy area, these are a game changer.
Why Influencers Love Them
It’s rare to find blackout velvet panels at this price—especially with so many color options.
6. IKEA SANELA Velvet Curtain
Recommended by: The Sorry Girls
The Sorry Girls always highlight IKEA SANELA panels for budget-friendly makeovers that still look premium.
- Material: Polyester velvet; soft brushed finish.
- Colors: Cobalt Blue, Light Pink, Dark Green, Gray.
- Dimensions: 55″x98″; sold as a pair.
- Features: Rod pocket; machine washable.
Affordable Style
SANELA panels are shockingly good for their price—the velvet feels plush and the colors are trendy but timeless.
My Experience
I used Cobalt Blue in my son’s room; he loves how “soft” they feel and I appreciate how easy they are to wash (hello, sticky fingers!).
Insider Tip
If you need lots of panels for a big window or multiple rooms, these are perfect—they’re sold as pairs and won’t break the bank.
7. Lush Decor Insulated Velvet Window Curtains
Recommended by: Alexandra Gater
Alexandra Gater loves Lush Decor’s Insulated Velvet Curtains for renters who want style and practicality.
- Material: Polyester velvet with thermal insulation.
- Colors: Blush Pink, Navy Blue, Silver Gray.
- Dimensions: 52″x84″, 52″x95″.
- Features: Grommet top; insulated backing.
What Makes Them Special
Beyond just style, these curtains help regulate temperature year-round. I installed Navy Blue panels in my drafty living room—the difference in warmth was noticeable right away.
Visual Appeal
The fabric is smooth with a gentle shimmer—not too glossy—so it works well with most interior styles.
Easy Living
Grommets mean super simple installation (no wrestling with rod pockets). These are ideal if you move often or want quick upgrades.
8. Deconovo Decorative Velvet Blackout Curtains
Recommended by: Kristen McGowan
Kristen McGowan recommends Deconovo’s Decorative Velvet Blackout Curtains for their unbeatable value and style options.
- Material: Polyester velvet; triple-weave blackout lining.
- Colors: Deep Olive, Dark Gray, Royal Blue.
- Dimensions: 52″x84″, 52″x95″.
- Features: Rod pocket; machine washable.
Best For Busy Homes
If you need child-proof curtains that still look chic, Deconovo delivers. I hung Deep Olive in my den—it instantly made the space feel more inviting and protected my furniture from fading sunlight.
Style & Substance
They’re thick enough to block out almost all light (great for shift workers or nurseries), but still drape nicely without looking bulky.
What to Look For When Buying Velvet Window Panels
Before you hit “add to cart,” here are some questions I always ask myself:
Style Goals
Are you going for drama (deep colors like Emerald or Navy) or softness (Blush Pink or Ivory)? Think about your existing decor so the panels enhance rather than clash.
Light Control
Do you need total darkness for sleep? Choose blackout-lined panels. If you love filtered sunlight, opt for unlined or light-filtering styles.
Texture & Material
Cotton velvet feels more natural and luxe but can be pricier; polyester velvet is durable and easier to clean (especially if kids or pets are involved).
Hanging Method
Rod pockets create a tailored look; grommets are easier to slide open/closed—handy if you adjust your curtains daily.
Maintenance Needs
Machine washable panels save time. If dry cleaning sounds like too much work, pick wisely!
Practical Buying Advice: My Criteria for Selection
1. Quality of Fabric:
Touch matters! I always run my hand across swatches or check user reviews for comments about softness and weight.
2. Lining Options:
Blackout lining is amazing for bedrooms; thermal lining helps with energy bills in winter or summer.
3. Color Choices:
Stick with shades that complement your wall color or add intentional contrast (think jewel tones against white walls).
4. Size Availability:
Measure twice before ordering—floor-length panels create height but can overwhelm small windows if not sized correctly.
5. Price vs Value:
Expensive doesn’t always mean better. IKEA SANELA or Deconovo offer great value if you’re on a budget; Pottery Barn or Anthropologie are splurges but worth it when quality matters most.
FAQs About Velvet Window Panels
Q: Are velvet curtains hard to clean?
Most polyester velvet panels are machine washable—check care tags! Cotton velvet may require dry cleaning but holds up beautifully over time if cared for properly.
Q: Do velvet curtains help with insulation?
Absolutely! Heavier velvet panels—especially those with thermal or blackout lining—can reduce drafts and keep rooms warmer in winter (and cooler in summer).
Q: Will velvet curtains fade in sunlight?
All fabrics fade eventually; lined panels help protect the fabric from direct sun exposure. Rotate or regularly close them to extend their life.
Q: Can I hang velvet curtains in kitchens or bathrooms?
Yes! Just pick machine-washable styles like IKEA SANELA or Deconovo for moist environments—and avoid dragging on floors where spills happen often.
Q: How do I get that full, “designer” look?
Order wider panels than your window frame so they bunch up luxuriously on either side when open. And always steam out wrinkles after hanging!
Final Thoughts: Velvet Is More Than Just a Trend
I’ll be honest—I used to think velvet was too fancy for everyday life. But after seeing how YouTube’s top design influencers use it in every kind of home (modern lofts, cozy cottages, family rooms), I’m convinced it’s totally practical and beautiful. Whether you’re craving more warmth, privacy, or just want your space to feel special every day, there’s a velvet curtain out there that fits your vibe—and your budget.
So if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your window game? Now’s the perfect time. Trust me: once you experience the texture and glow of velvet window panels in your own home, there’s no going back.