Shades and Blinds

• Classic Roman shades or roll-up blinds are a handy option that will keep your bay window tidy and uncluttered.
  
  Keep your colors simple if your window frames a flourishing flower garden. If it outlines a gray city view, be bold with bright patterns and textures. Blinds and shades can also be spruced up with vibrant valances to draw the eye without overwhelming the bay.
  
  Versatile too, blinds and shades can easily be drawn to keep your nook cozy and private, but they can also be fully rolled up to reveal the light and view to their fullest.
  
  

Shutters

• Another option to frame your bay window is shutters. Window shutters provide texture and charm, framing the window, while letting in all the natural light.
  
  Wooden shutters can be brightly painted or stained for rustic, cottage style homes. In addition, for sleek, modern décor, keep it in theme with bold metal shutters.
  
  

Curtains and Drapes

• Your options for curtains and drapes in a bay window are numerous. Café-style and sheer curtains are terrific choices; they provide privacy while allowing your window's natural light to stream through.
  
  Long panel drapes are elegant accents and can be installed neatly to fit, using bowed rods cut to size. To extend the appearance of width, install your curtains to cover the walls on each side, framing the area and elongating the width of the bay. This technique also allows you to utilize the charm and color of curtains, without losing any natural light.
  
  

Finishing Touches

• Nothing beats cozying up in the afternoon sun in your bay window. If your bay window already includes a window seat to curl up on, complement the seat or throw cushions with the color and pattern of your window treatment. There are several easy options to construct your own window seat. Line the floor with a few oversized, comfortable cushions, or place a small wicker chair, love seat or wall cabinets topped with bright throw cushions before the window.
  
  For one last touch of bright color in your bay, add potted plants and flowers that thrive in sunlight. Flowers will enhance a garden view and bring some nature into the room if your bay frames a city view.