Selecting a Pattern for Your Shower Curtains

Picking a shower curtain seems simple but it can be a daunting task when you see just how many options are available to discerning consumers.

Bath boutiques, and even discount retailers, offer a wide selection of shower curtains in a dizzying assortment of colors, textures and material.

Before deciding on a pattern for your shower curtain, it helps to take an inventory of your bathroom. Look at the type of flooring you have (vinyl, ceramic tile, etc.), the color and style of your fixtures, and the texture and color of your vanity top (melamine, marble, granite, Corian, etc.). Make note of the style of door the bathroom has, as well as any mirrors, windows and coverings that you wish to keep. If you have a digital cameral, snap a few shots of your bathroom so you can see it from a different perspective, and also so you will have color samples to take with you when you go shopping. Lighting can also make an impact on the pattern of your shower curtain. For example, if you have very traditional light fixtures, you may not want an ultra contemporary pattern on your shower curtain. Old and new can be blended into a cohesive style, but it takes a degree of skill to make the look cohesive and stylish.

Browse: one of the best ways to pick a shower curtain is to take a no-pressure trip to see what is available. Shop with your eyes, but also with your fingers. Shower curtains are available in a wide range of materials, from plastic to linen, to terry cloth to beads. The pattern on which you decide may be affected by the material of which your curtain is made. For example, a textured terry cloth curtain may look better as a solid than as a print.

Color: find a color you can live with. In fact, find a color you love, as you are likely to see your shower curtain every single day. However, try to avoid colors that will clash with the tones of your bathroom’s fixed elements such as tile or fixtures.

Pattern: patterns can add a lot of personality to your shower curtain, and can set the atmosphere of your bathroom. A delicate floral might set the tone for a very feminine room, while playful bubbles might be great for a kids’ bath. Be aware, however, of trendy patterns that quickly date themselves. In that case, you may end up replacing your shower curtain earlier than anticipated.

Variety: due to its size, the shower curtain makes a big impact on the look of your bath. As an added bonus, they are very easy to change, so if you can afford the indulgence, buy a couple different shower curtains to reflect the different seasons, or simply your mood.

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