• Valances are made from many different fabrics.voilages image by Unclesam from Fotolia.com
  
  Window valances come in many styles, and you can create your own. They provide style and can change the entire look of a room. The type of valance you choose will dictate the formality level in the space. One thing to keep in mind when choosing a style is the casement around the window, whether it hould it be hidden or accentuated.
  
  

Box Pleat

• Create a sophisticated look with box pleats and a curved bottom edge. Box pleated valances can be as simple or elegant as desired. A tailored tux box pleat is an elegant addition to a formal dining room. A tailored tux valance is created by using two contrasting fabrics and button-back corners.
  
  

Swag

• Traditional swag with pleats is easy to make with only one line of stitching. Swags are made from any fabric to fit your style. A luxurious look is created with soft flowing pleated swags. Combine with a Jabot curtain that cascades down the window sides. A cutout swag creates soft flowing curves and tails.
  
  

Cornice

• This is an older look with quilt batting and fabric attached to scalloped cut wood that is boxed over the top of a window.
  
  

Roman Shade

• The traditional Roman shade valance has permanent soft folds. You can also choose the relaxed Roman shade valance, which adds some weight and fullness with inverted pleats.
  
  

Triangle

• Layers of triangles with or without tassels create an eyecatching valance. Any type of fabric can be used to create a themed or elegant look.
  
  

London Shade

• This window valance is considered to be the melting pot of window treatments. Also know as festoon, this shade valance combines swag with tails that hang to one side of the treatment.
  
  

Austrian

• If you like lots of puffy pleats, this is an option to consider.
  
  

Stagecoach

• This design is similar to the balloon style, with two exceptions. The center balloon is higher than the side balloons, and the balloons are created with straps instead of sewn in place.
  
  

Balloon

• Choose from a pleated or sheer balloon style. The pleated style has cascading scallops with fluffy folds. The different looks of balloon valances are in the choice of fabric.
  
  

Fish Tail

• This is a simple scarf held up at the corners with a soft swag in the middle and flowing sides.