pinch pleats are having a moment (again)
double euro pleats for STAUD Palm Beach
If you’ve been watching the fabric world closely, you’ve probably noticed something happening in design studios, boutique hotels, and flagship stores: pinch pleats are back.
Not in a dusty, traditional kind of way. But in a tailored, textural, confident way. The kind of look that says, yes, I’ve been around, and yes, I still know exactly what I’m doing.
what exactly is a pinch pleat?
A pinch pleat is a classic curtain heading style where the fabric is folded and sewn into evenly spaced pleats at the top. The result? A fuller, more dimensional drape that hangs beautifully, opens smoothly, and instantly looks considered.
It’s the kind of detail that reads like good tailoring: quietly luxe, always intentional.
the styles we’re seeing (and loving)
There’s more than one way to pleat. Here are a few styles we’re seeing across projects, from luxury retail installations to bespoke interior concepts:
how we calculate for pinch pleats
Behind every perfectly tailored pinch pleat curtain is a bit of math (and a lot of experience). Here’s the basic idea:
We start with fullness.
Pinch pleats need extra fabric to drape properly—usually about 2 to 2.5 times the width of the finished curtain. This ensures the pleats hold their shape and create that signature, luxurious look.
Then we divide and conquer.
Once we know the total width, we break it down by the number of pleats and the spacing between them. Each pleat uses a set amount of fabric (often 4–6 inches, depending on the style) that’s folded and stitched to create that structured, dimensional pleat.
Finally, we refine.
We always account for the header tape, side hems, and any special design details (like adding a blackout lining or layering sheers). It’s this attention to detail that makes the difference when working with a custom drapery house.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about measuring fabric. It’s about shaping the atmosphere of a space, one pleat at a time.
double pinch pleat fitting room curtains for the Alexandra Grecco Flagship
pinch pleats, tailored for today
At Circle Visual, we’ve been making pinch pleat curtains since long before they were “trending.” It’s one of those techniques that never really left our studio—because timeless design always finds its way back.
What’s exciting is how designers are using them now: in unexpected colors, bold textiles, and unexpected pairings. Velvet with brass hardware. Sheer linen layered with blackout panels. Or pleats running floor-to-ceiling inside pop-up spaces and fitting rooms that deserve more than just a curtain.
So yes, pinch pleats are back. And they’re better than ever.
want your drapery to do more?
Let’s talk pleats, fabrics, proportions—and how to make your space feel elevated with just the right amount of movement.