The Affordable Curtains We Swear By to Make a Room Look More Expensive

Curtains have the power to entirely transform a room, but they can also get really expensive, real quick. And with the multitude of fabric options and hanging styles out there, choosing the right curtains for your room can feel overwhelming. So how do you make sure you'll pick the right affordable curtains for your room every time? The key is in knowing exactly what to look for.

Nate Berkus said it first: When it comes to window treatments, simplicity is best. "I tend to create interiors that are a little simpler and a little less ornate," he once told MyDomaine. "I don’t really reach for fussy window coverings as a general rule." It can be tempting to reach for the colorful curtains with the crazy pattern, but that might stick out more than you'd hope, and not in the right way.

Instead, familiarize with a few basic terms. Blackout curtains are ideal for a bedroom to provide complete darkness, while other rooms like living rooms can benefit from more sheer options. It all depends how much privacy you really need. But no matter what you're looking for, always remember these two simple words: Belgian linen. This fabric will make your space look instantly more expensive, and some retailers have really affordable options. To help you pick the perfect affordable curtains, we handpicked 10 options in five different styles. Best of all, every single option is under $100.

This Riviera Stripe curtain comes with a blackout lining option, but the cross-woven design also has a sun-bleached effect so it won't make your room look darker.

If you're looking for a moodier vibe, a worn velvet in a rich jewel tone is your go-to blackout curtain. It always looks extra luxe.

Linen drapes always make a home look more expensive. Look for them in neutral tones that complement your walls and opt for round or clip rings.

Belgian linen is the holy grail of curtains. West Elm has good affordable options. Opt for light shades and a pocket top treatment.

Anthropologie has great sheer options, like this one which features a subtle tone-on-tone sheer stripe and a fringed edge.

This sheer Belgian flax curtain is breezy and beautiful. Dusty tones and neutrals look best with sheer curtains to keep them simple, flowy, and elegant.

Urban Outfitters has a ton of fun embellished curtain options like this pompom option available in all-white or seven other colors.

There's nothing like pompoms to up the fun factor of your curtains without going over the top. This one features a sleek gold stripe.

Give your room a breezy Mediterranean look with this airy net curtain that looks straight out of Ibiza or Santorini.

Looking for something with more pattern? Look for a subtle floral like this sheer Anthropologie curtain. The tie-top adds to the romantic flair

Next up: Nine must-know rules for hanging curtains and shades.