Key Difference: Drapes refer to heavy window treatments that are often lined with an extra fabric. Curtains are window treatments that are light and thin, though they can also be thick. These are usually single piece of fabric and are not lined with any additional material.

Drapes and curtains are two words that can and are often used interchangeably. However, historically they were used to describe two different products. Drapes and curtains are both pieces of material that are used to cover the windows to keep out peeping Toms, sunlight and also to add style to the room.

Drapes refer to heavy window treatments that are often lined with an extra fabric. The drapes were often used in order to serve an aesthetic purpose as well as a functional purpose of blocking sunlight and providing privacy. Due to the heavy and thick material of a drape, they could often shut out light completely from the room. They are also very decorative and are fasted with cords or special bands that match with the décor. Drapes are usually bought and must match the décor of the room. These were often used in olden days and would also be a sign of money and wealth of a household.  The drapes also have extra cloth and create pleats in the material even when it is closed. The drapes have a front and a back, which cannot be reversed. Drapes are hung up curtain rods which are hidden under wooden panels.

Curtains are window treatments that are light and thin, though they can also be thick. These are usually single piece of fabric and are not lined with any additional material. The word ‘curtain’ is derived from the Latin word "cortina," meaning “partial covering or veil.” Curtains can also provide an aesthetic purpose as well as a functional purpose. They do not completely block out the light and provide privacy. These are loose cloths and do not have extra material that creates pleats. Curtains can also be used to liven up the room by using bring and vibrant colors that are in style with décor of the room. Curtains are more informal compared to drapes and are used in causal fashion. Curtains can be full-length of short covering just the window. Curtains also have the same fabric back and forth and can be reversed and used. They are often hung on curtain rods that are visible.

In layman’s terms drapes are more decorative and exude richness, while curtains are less decorative and are only used for functional purposes. Also depending on the area, drapes can trap heat or cold, while insulated curtains can be purchased in order to provide extra heat or cool. Though today when a person goes shopping, they only shop according to their needs and not according to the name.

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