Every few months, the internet seems to declare another home trend “over.” Lately, it’s been grommet curtains. One scroll through TikTok or Pinterest and you’ll find people insisting they’re dated, while the comments are full of homeowners saying they still love them.​

The truth? Grommet curtains aren’t wrong—they’re just one look. They tend to feel a little more casual and modern, and because of those large metal rings, they’re hard to dress up. If you’re craving something softer or a bit more elevated, there are plenty of other options worth considering, says an interior designer in Toledo.

Here are a few ideas:

Back-Tab Curtains

If you like clean lines but don’t want the hardware to steal the show, back-tab curtains are an easy upgrade. The tabs are sewn onto the back of the panel, so the curtain rod is mostly hidden. The result is a softer, more tailored drape that works in everything from modern homes to cozy farmhouse spaces. They look polished without trying too hard.​

Pinch-Pleat Curtains

Nothing makes a room feel more finished quite like pinch pleats. They’re the curtains you often see in designer living rooms because they naturally create even folds and a fuller appearance. They do cost a little more than basic panels, but they instantly make windows look more custom. If you’re trying to elevate a room without a major renovation, this is one place to spend the extra money.

​Rod Pocket Curtains

Rod pocket curtains have been around forever, but they’re making a quiet comeback, especially in relaxed, cottage-inspired homes. Because the fabric gathers directly onto the rod, they have a softer, more romantic look. The downside is they’re not the easiest to open and close every day, so they’re best for rooms where the curtains mostly stay in place.

​Cafe Curtains

If you want to let in natural light while still adding privacy, consider cafe curtains, which cover only the lower half of a window. They’re especially charming in kitchens, breakfast nooks, and bathrooms. Paired with a woven shade or a simple valance, they feel timeless rather than trendy.

​Roman Shades

Bring warmth and texture to any home with Roman shades. They don’t take up much visual space, which makes them especially nice in smaller rooms. Linen versions feel relaxed, while woven wood styles add natural texture. You can also layer them under side panels if you want the best of both worlds.

​Roller Shades

Roller shades have come a long way from the stiff vinyl versions many of us grew up with. Today’s options come in beautiful woven fabrics, subtle textures, and even light-filtering materials that look surprisingly high-end. They’re simple, practical, and work particularly well in modern or minimalist homes where you want the windows to feel clean rather than fussy.

​Curtain Rings With Clip Hooks

Instead of replacing everything, attach your curtains to decorative rings with clip hooks. It’s an inexpensive update, but it completely changes the look. The curtains hang a little higher, the folds look more intentional, and the hardware becomes part of the design instead of an afterthought.​

Like most design debates online, it comes down to personal taste. Grommet curtains still make sense in plenty of homes, especially if you like a clean, contemporary style or need something easy to slide open every morning. If you’ve been feeling like your windows need a refresh, swapping the hanging style can make a surprisingly big difference.