Now that winter is here, it seems like all of our clients are suddenly wanting to cover their windows! Window treatments definitely make a room softer, cozier and less drafty, and fortunately we have plenty of go-to options to suggest. So while we are up to our eyeballs in shades and drapes, we thought we'd share some of our favorites and tips.

One of our standby window options is the bamboo shade. They are neutral, affordable, and can work with a variety of furnishing styles. We frequently use these incredibly inexpensive bamboo shades from Overstock available by the inch so fairly simple to make work with most windows. We also really love the options over at blinds.com when we're looking to get more specific about coloring and need to see samples. Those can be done completely custom and they still don't break the bank.

We also frequently use roman shades. They are simple and tailored, and can add softness and pattern to a room without the drama of a drape. It's difficult to find ready made versions, but if you are lucky enough to have a standard window size, Pottery Barn does a nice linen version. We usually have them custom made, which means we can do anything- a solid color, fun pattern or decorative trim.

For larger windows, we love the look of floor length drapes. For a non custom option, Pottery Barn is again a great source and we particularly love their Emery linen/cotton drape. Even Ikea (shhhh...don't tell) really comes through with their 100% linen AINA panels for only $60 a pair. Kind of incredible!

Again, we also often have them custom made to allow for wider lengths and more interesting pattern and details. A tip for anyone measuring for drapes in classic, San Francisco Victorians: make sure to measure the height on both sides of the window very carefully! Those creaky wood floors tend to slope, which can leave you with an awkward "pants that are too short" length on one side. We may or may not have learned this the hard way...