Laura Ashley Curtains

How a British Heritage Brand Continues to Transform Home Interiors Today

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, few names evoke the same sense of timeless elegance and quintessential British charm as Laura Ashley. For decades, the distinctive floral prints and sophisticated patterns of Laura Ashley curtains have adorned countless homes, creating spaces that feel both refined and comfortably inviting. Despite the brand’s recent transformations, Laura Ashley curtains remain one of the most sought-after window treatment options for homeowners who value quality craftsmanship and classic design.

As someone who has spent years transforming living spaces with carefully selected textiles, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the right curtains can completely transform a room. Laura Ashley curtains, with their distinctive aesthetic and quality materials, have consistently stood out in the market. Today, I’m delighted to share everything you need to know about these beloved window dressings—from their storied heritage to practical considerations for your home.

The Laura Ashley Legacy: More Than Just Curtains

Before diving into the specifics of Laura Ashley curtains, it’s worth appreciating the rich history behind the name. The Laura Ashley brand began in 1953 when Laura and Bernard Ashley started printing textiles on their kitchen table in London. What started as a modest venture creating headscarves and napkins eventually blossomed into an international brand synonymous with English country charm and floral patterns.

Laura Ashley’s vision was simple yet revolutionary: she wanted to create beautiful, high-quality products that would bring elegance into everyday homes. Her distinctive style—often characterized by romantic florals, pastoral scenes, and muted color palettes—reflected her love for Victorian and Edwardian aesthetics while remaining accessible to modern consumers.

The brand’s curtains quickly became flagship products, embodying everything Laura Ashley stood for: timeless beauty, exceptional quality, and attention to detail. Even today, decades after their introduction, Laura Ashley curtains continue to carry this legacy forward, bringing a touch of refined English countryside elegance to homes worldwide.

What Exactly Are Laura Ashley Curtains?

Laura Ashley curtains are premium window treatments known for their distinctive patterns, superior fabrics, and exceptional craftsmanship. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, these curtains feature thoughtfully designed prints and patterns that have often been drawn from historical archives, vintage textiles, or inspired by nature’s beauty.

What sets Laura Ashley curtains apart is their unmistakable aesthetic—soft yet sophisticated, with a distinctly British sensibility. The curtains typically feature:

• Signature floral patterns ranging from delicate sprigs to bold blooms
• Elegant stripe variations from pinstripes to wide awning stripes
• Subtle damask and jacquard patterns for added texture
• Classic check and plaid designs that complement various interior styles
• Delicate toile patterns depicting pastoral scenes

Beyond their iconic designs, Laura Ashley curtains are crafted with remarkable attention to quality. The fabrics are carefully selected, the printing precise, and the construction meticulous. Many feature generous hems, weighted corners, and thoughtful details like coordinating tiebacks that add to their luxury appeal.

Where to Buy Laura Ashley Curtains Today

The retail landscape for Laura Ashley products has changed significantly in recent years. In 2020, the company entered administration in the UK, leaving many loyal customers wondering about the future availability of their beloved products, including curtains.

Fortunately, Laura Ashley as a brand continues to exist through licensing agreements. Today, you can find Laura Ashley curtains through various channels:

Next Home: In the UK, Next has taken over as a primary retailer for Laura Ashley home products, including an extensive range of curtains. Their website and physical stores offer a curated selection of classic and updated Laura Ashley designs.

Laura Ashley Website: The revitalized Laura Ashley website continues to offer home furnishings, including curtains, though the selection may vary by region.

Department Stores: Various department stores like John Lewis in the UK and select retailers in the US carry licensed Laura Ashley products.

Home Specialty Retailers: Stores focusing on home decor often stock Laura Ashley curtains or can special order them.

Online Marketplaces: Amazon, Wayfair, and other online retailers frequently carry Laura Ashley curtain collections.

Resale Platforms: For vintage or discontinued patterns, platforms like eBay, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, and Poshmark can be treasure troves for finding authentic Laura Ashley curtains from previous collections.

While the shopping experience may differ from the dedicated Laura Ashley stores of the past, the quality and design integrity of the curtains remain consistent with the brand’s heritage.

The Price Point: What to Expect When Shopping for Laura Ashley Curtains

Quality and craftsmanship come at a price, and Laura Ashley curtains represent a premium offering in the window treatment market. As with most curtains, pricing varies based on several factors:

Size: Standard sizes typically start around $100-150 for smaller windows, while custom or extra-large sizes can exceed $300-400 per pair.

Material: Pure cotton curtains are usually more affordable than silk blends or velvet options, which can command significantly higher prices.

Design Complexity: Intricate patterns with multiple colors or metallic details generally cost more than simpler designs.

Special Features: Blackout linings, thermal properties, or custom headers will increase the overall price.

While Laura Ashley curtains represent an investment, they’re priced competitively within the premium curtain market. When compared to other high-end brands like Sanderson, Zoffany, or Colefax and Fowler, Laura Ashley often offers comparable quality at a somewhat more accessible price point.

Many homeowners find that the longevity and timeless appeal of Laura Ashley curtains justify the initial investment. Unlike trendier options that may feel dated within a few years, these classic designs tend to retain their appeal for decades, making them cost-effective in the long run.

Fabric Matters: The Materials Behind Laura Ashley Curtains

The fabric selection forms the foundation of any quality curtain, and Laura Ashley has always prioritized exceptional textiles. Their curtains typically feature:

Cotton: Perhaps the most common base material for Laura Ashley curtains, premium cotton offers a crisp, clean appearance and excellent drape. Cotton curtains hold printed patterns beautifully and allow for precise detailing in the brand’s signature florals.

Cotton Blends: To improve durability and reduce wrinkling, many Laura Ashley curtains incorporate poly-cotton blends, typically with a high cotton percentage to maintain the natural look and feel.

Linen and Linen Blends: For a more relaxed, textural appearance, some collections feature linen or linen-cotton blends. These fabrics create a casual elegance and offer excellent light diffusion.

Velvet: For ultimate luxury and warmth, Laura Ashley velvet curtains provide dramatic draping and exceptional insulating properties. These are particularly popular for formal living rooms and master bedrooms.

Silk and Silk Blends: Reserved for their most premium offerings, silk-blend curtains offer an incomparable luminosity and elegance. While pure silk is delicate, blends offer improved durability while maintaining silk’s luxurious sheen.

Jacquard and Damask Weaves: Some Laura Ashley curtains feature intricate woven patterns rather than prints, adding textural interest and a subtle sophistication.

The choice of material significantly impacts not only the curtain’s appearance but also its functionality. Heavier fabrics like velvet provide better insulation and light blocking, while lighter cotton or linen options create an airier feel while gently filtering light.

Practical Considerations: Care and Maintenance

One practical concern for many homeowners is the care and maintenance of their investments. Laura Ashley curtains vary in their care requirements based primarily on the fabric composition:

Machine Washable Options: Many of the cotton and cotton-blend curtains are machine washable, typically on gentle cycles with mild detergent. These options are ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with children and pets.

Dry Clean Only: Silk blends, velvets, and curtains with special finishes or intricate details usually require professional dry cleaning to maintain their appearance and structural integrity.

Always check the specific care instructions for your curtains, as requirements may vary even within similar fabric types. As a general rule:

• Remove dust regularly with gentle vacuuming using an upholstery attachment
• Address spills promptly to prevent staining
• Consider rotating curtains periodically in rooms with strong sunlight to prevent uneven fading
• Steam rather than iron when possible to remove wrinkles

With proper care, Laura Ashley curtains can maintain their beauty for many years, making them a worthwhile long-term investment for your home.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Available Sizes and Custom Options

Laura Ashley curtains come in a range of standard sizes to accommodate most windows, typically including:

Ready-Made Options:

• Pencil pleat curtains: 66″ x 54″, 66″ x 72″, 66″ x 90″, 90″ x 90″
• Eyelet curtains: Similar range with slight variations
• Specialty sizes for patio doors and bay windows

Made-to-Measure Services:
While the original Laura Ashley stores offered extensive custom services, today’s options are somewhat more limited. However, several retailers carrying Laura Ashley fabrics can create custom curtains to your specifications.

For unusual window dimensions or special requirements, working with an independent seamstress using Laura Ashley fabric by the yard is often the most flexible approach. This allows for completely customized:

• Precise width and drop measurements
• Header style preferences (pencil pleat, eyelet, tab top, etc.)
• Lining options for special needs like blackout or thermal insulation
• Matching accessories like tiebacks, valances, or cushions

Remember when measuring for curtains that the standard recommendation is for width to be 2-2.5 times the window width for a luxurious gather, and for length to either kiss the floor or puddle slightly depending on your preference.

Let There Be Light (Or Not): Opacity Options

Laura Ashley curtains come in various opacity levels to suit different practical needs and aesthetic preferences:

Sheer and Semi-Sheer: Lightweight, unlined curtains that filter light beautifully while maintaining privacy during daylight hours. These are particularly lovely in Laura Ashley’s delicate floral patterns.

Light-Filtering: The standard construction for most Laura Ashley curtains includes a light cotton lining that provides moderate privacy while still allowing some diffused light to enter the room.

Blackout Options: Many Laura Ashley curtains can be purchased with or upgraded to blackout linings, which block approximately 99% of light. These are ideal for bedrooms, media rooms, or any space where light control is a priority.

Interlined Curtains: For the ultimate in luxury and insulation, some Laura Ashley curtains feature interlining—a layer of flannel-like fabric sandwiched between the decorative fabric and lining. This construction creates a sumptuously full appearance while providing excellent thermal and acoustic benefits.

The opacity choice significantly impacts not just light control but also the curtain’s insulating properties and overall fullness. When ordering, be sure to specify your lining preference if options are available.

Signature Styles: The Most Popular Laura Ashley Curtain Designs

While Laura Ashley offers diverse patterns, certain designs have achieved iconic status and continue to be bestsellers season after season:

Floral Prints: Undoubtedly the brand’s most recognizable designs, Laura Ashley floral curtains range from delicate cottage-garden sprigs to bold statement blooms. Popular collections include:

• Summer Palace: Large-scale chinoiserie floral pattern
• Josette: Elegant damask-inspired floral design
• Beatrice: Delicate trailing floral pattern with a vintage feel

Classic Checks and Stripes: For a more tailored, less feminine approach, the brand’s check and stripe patterns offer timeless appeal:

• Gingham: Available in various scales and colors
• Awning Stripe: Bold, evenly spaced stripes
• Tatton: Subtle check pattern that reads almost as a texture from a distance

Toile Patterns: These scenic prints depicting pastoral vignettes have been a Laura Ashley signature for decades, with the Keynes and Chiswick collections remaining particularly sought-after.

Damask and Jacquard: For subtle elegance, the woven patterns in collections like Josette and Marchmont add textural interest without overwhelming a space.

Many devotees of the brand collect curtains across multiple patterns, either for different rooms or to change with the seasons. The cohesive color palettes across collections make it relatively easy to mix and match within the Laura Ashley world.

Color Your World: Available Palettes in Laura Ashley Curtains

Laura Ashley curtains are available in a carefully curated range of colorways that reflect the brand’s romantic, English country aesthetic. While specific availability varies by pattern and season, the color families typically include:

Soft Neutrals: Ivory, cream, soft white, and warm beige form the foundation of many Laura Ashley curtain collections, offering versatility and timeless appeal.

Duck Egg and Pale Blue: Perhaps the most iconic Laura Ashley color, these soft blue-green hues evoke the painted eggs of mallard ducks and feature prominently in many of their most beloved patterns.

Sage and Olive Greens: These nature-inspired greens provide a sophisticated alternative to more vibrant greens, complementing both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Dusty Pinks and Lavenders: Soft, muted versions of these colors appear frequently, offering feminine charm without becoming overly saccharine.

Deep Blues and Teals: For more dramatic impact, Laura Ashley offers several patterns in richer blue tones that add depth while maintaining sophistication.

Warm Yellows and Golds: Particularly in their damask and traditional patterns, warm yellow tones add a sunny elegance to formal spaces.

Crimson and Cranberry: For dining rooms and libraries, these rich red tones create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

What distinguishes Laura Ashley’s color palette is its cohesiveness—even across very different patterns, the colors harmonize beautifully, making it easy to mix and match throughout your home while maintaining a coordinated feel.

Bridging Design Styles: Are Laura Ashley Curtains Only for Traditional Homes?

A common misconception is that Laura Ashley curtains only suit traditional or country-style interiors. While they certainly excel in these settings, contemporary interpretations of classic Laura Ashley patterns can work beautifully in more modern contexts:

In Traditional Settings: Laura Ashley curtains are natural companions for antiques, classic architecture, and formal furniture arrangements. The full floral patterns and damasks especially shine in Victorian, Tudor, or Colonial revival homes.

In Transitional Spaces: Pairing Laura Ashley’s simpler patterns like stripes or small-scale geometrics with more contemporary furniture creates a pleasing blend of old and new. These spaces benefit from the quality and subtle pattern without becoming overly traditional.

In Modern Contexts: Even minimalist spaces can benefit from the textural interest and softness that Laura Ashley curtains bring. Choosing monochromatic options or geometric patterns rather than florals helps integrate them into more contemporary settings.

In Eclectic Designs: Perhaps the most exciting application is in deliberately eclectic spaces, where vintage Laura Ashley curtains can serve as counterpoints to mid-century or industrial elements, creating tension and visual interest.

The key to incorporating Laura Ashley curtains into any design style is considering scale, color, and pattern carefully. Even their most traditional florals can look surprisingly fresh when paired with unexpected elements like modern art or sculptural furniture.

Finding a Bargain: Where to Source Laura Ashley Curtains on Sale

While Laura Ashley curtains represent a quality investment, savvy shoppers can find them at reduced prices through several channels:

Seasonal Sales: Retailers carrying Laura Ashley typically discount curtains during seasonal sales events, particularly after Christmas and during summer clearance periods.

Outlet Stores: Some Laura Ashley outlet locations continue to operate, offering discounted or discontinued patterns at reduced prices.

Online Flash Sales: Websites like Zulily occasionally feature Laura Ashley home goods at significant discounts.

End-of-Line Clearance: When patterns are being discontinued, retailers often reduce prices to clear inventory.

Secondary Markets: For vintage or discontinued patterns, platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and consignment shops can yield remarkable bargains, sometimes at 70-80% below original retail prices.

Sample Sales: Design centers sometimes sell sample curtains that were used for display at steep discounts.

When purchasing secondhand, examine photos carefully for any staining, sun damage, or fading, and verify measurements to ensure they’ll fit your windows properly.

The Complete Look: Tiebacks and Accessories

Many Laura Ashley curtains come with matching tiebacks, though these are sometimes sold separately as well. These fabric-covered or tassel tiebacks add a finished touch and provide a practical way to hold curtains open to maximize light.

Beyond standard tiebacks, the Laura Ashley aesthetic can be extended throughout your room with:

Coordinating Cushions: Many curtain fabrics are also available as decorative pillows, allowing you to create a cohesive look.

Valances and Pelmets: For a more formal, traditional window treatment, matching valances add architectural interest and conceal curtain hardware.

Lampshades: Custom or ready-made lampshades in matching fabrics create charming coordination.

Bed Linens: For bedrooms, extending the curtain pattern to duvet covers or bed skirts creates a harmonious, enveloping feel.

This ability to coordinate across various home textiles has always been one of Laura Ashley’s strengths, allowing homeowners to create thoroughly cohesive spaces without the stiffness of exact matching.

Measuring for Success: Getting the Right Fit

Before investing in Laura Ashley curtains, accurate measurements are essential. The basic process includes:

1. Decide on hanging method: Will you use a pole or track? This affects where you measure from.
2. Measure width: For poles, measure the entire width of the pole excluding finials. For tracks, measure the total width of the track. Add 4-6 inches on each side for optimal light blocking.
3. Determine drop: Measure from where curtains will hang to either:
   • Just touching the floor (most formal)
   • 1/2 inch above the floor (practical for frequently opened curtains)
   • Pooling on floor by 1-3 inches (most luxurious but requires more maintenance)
4. Calculate fullness: For a luxurious gather, order curtains with a width 2-2.5 times your window width.
5. Consider pattern matching: For paired curtains with prominent patterns, you may need additional fabric to ensure patterns align properly at the center closure.

Taking time to measure properly will ensure your investment in Laura Ashley curtains yields the perfect fit for your windows.

The Resale Market: Finding Vintage Laura Ashley Treasures

For collectors and those seeking discontinued patterns, online resale platforms have become valuable resources:

eBay: Perhaps the largest marketplace for vintage Laura Ashley curtains, with listings ranging from 1970s classics to recently discontinued patterns.

Etsy: Specializing in vintage items, Etsy often features carefully preserved Laura Ashley curtains from earlier decades.

Facebook Marketplace: Local pickup options make this platform ideal for finding larger or heavier curtain sets without shipping costs.

Vintage Stores: Specialized vintage textile shops occasionally have Laura Ashley curtains, particularly in areas with historic homes.

When purchasing vintage Laura Ashley curtains, examine them carefully for:

• Sun damage or fading, particularly along top edges
• Smoke or musty odors that may be difficult to remove
• Accurate measurements, as older patterns may use different standard sizes
• Authenticity, looking for Laura Ashley labels or characteristic print quality

Vintage curtains may require professional cleaning before hanging, but they often represent remarkable value and bring authentic heritage patterns into your home.

Energy Efficiency: Beyond Aesthetics

Beyond their decorative function, Laura Ashley curtains can contribute significantly to your home’s energy efficiency:

Thermal Properties: Heavier fabrics like velvet or those with thermal linings can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25% in winter months.

Summer Benefits: Light-colored, lined curtains reflect sunlight, potentially reducing cooling costs during hot weather.

Draft Reduction: Properly fitted curtains that extend beyond window frames help eliminate drafts, improving comfort and reducing energy consumption.

Acoustic Benefits: The substantial fabrics used in many Laura Ashley curtains also provide sound dampening benefits, particularly in urban environments or homes near busy roads.

For maximum energy efficiency, consider:

• Interlined curtains for superior insulation
• Ceiling-to-floor length for complete coverage
• Pelmet or cornice boxes to prevent heat circulation around curtain tops
• Overlapping center closures to eliminate gaps

While energy efficiency may not be the primary reason for choosing Laura Ashley curtains, it represents a significant added benefit that enhances their value proposition.

The Pattern Legacy: What Makes Laura Ashley Designs Distinctive

What has allowed Laura Ashley curtains to maintain their appeal across generations is the distinctive character of their pattern designs. The most recognizable categories include:

English Garden Florals: Inspired by traditional cottage gardens, these patterns feature roses, hydrangeas, foxgloves, and other classic English flowers in naturalistic arrangements.

Historic Reproductions: Many patterns draw inspiration from textile archives, featuring authentic Victorian or Edwardian motifs adapted for contemporary use.

Trailing Patterns: Vertical designs with graceful, climbing floral elements create visual height and elegance.

Ditsy Prints: Small-scale, scattered floral motifs create textural interest without overwhelming a space.

Toile de Jouy: These narrative patterns depicting pastoral scenes have been a Laura Ashley signature since the 1980s.

Damask and Jacquard: These woven patterns create subtle texture and sophisticated dimension.

Checks and Stripes: From delicate gingham to bold awning stripes, these geometric patterns offer versatility and timeless appeal.

What unites these diverse pattern types is their authentic connection to English design heritage and their meticulous execution. Unlike mass-market imitations, genuine Laura Ashley patterns demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, sophisticated color layering, and precise printing or weaving.

Construction Details: Lined or Unlined?

Laura Ashley curtains are available in both lined and unlined versions, each serving different purposes:

Lined Curtains: The majority of Laura Ashley curtains come standard with cotton linings that provide:

• Enhanced drape and structure
• Protection of the decorative fabric from sun damage
• Improved privacy and light control
• Better insulating properties

Unlined Options: Typically reserved for very lightweight fabrics intended to filter rather than block light, unlined Laura Ashley curtains offer:

• A more casual, relaxed appearance
• Reduced weight for easier operation
• Enhanced light diffusion
• A more affordable price point

Special Linings: Beyond standard cotton linings, premium options include:

• Blackout linings for bedrooms or media rooms
• Thermal linings for energy efficiency
• Interlining for luxurious fullness and additional insulation

The lining choice significantly impacts not just the curtain’s appearance but also its functionality and longevity. Lined curtains typically last longer as the lining absorbs much of the stress and sun exposure that would otherwise affect the decorative fabric.

Alternatives and Competitors: Similar Aesthetic Options

For those who appreciate the Laura Ashley aesthetic but are exploring alternatives, several brands offer complementary styles:

Sanderson: Another British heritage brand with a similar focus on floral patterns and traditional designs, though typically at a higher price point.

Cath Kidston: Offering a more whimsical, colorful take on British design with vintage-inspired patterns.

Waverly: An American brand with traditional florals and patterns at a somewhat lower price point.

Morris & Co.: Drawing on William Morris designs, these patterns offer Arts and Crafts inspired alternatives with similar historical authenticity.

Colefax and Fowler: A more upscale option featuring sophisticated English country house style.

IKEA: For budget-conscious shoppers, IKEA occasionally offers floral patterns inspired by similar design traditions at significantly lower prices.

What distinguishes Laura Ashley from these alternatives is the brand’s distinctive color palette, print clarity, and cohesive design language across collections. While competitors may excel in specific areas, Laura Ashley’s balanced combination of quality, design integrity, and relative accessibility maintains its special place in the market.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Laura Ashley Curtains

In a world of rapidly changing interior trends, Laura Ashley curtains represent something increasingly precious: authentic design with historical continuity and genuine quality. Their enduring appeal stems not from fleeting fashion but from fundamental principles of good design—proportion, color harmony, and attention to detail.

Whether you’re furnishing a cottage in the Cotswolds or a contemporary apartment in Singapore, Laura Ashley curtains offer a connection to a design tradition that transcends trends. They bring warmth, texture, and a sense of established elegance to any space they grace.

As the brand continues its evolution in the marketplace, the legacy of Laura Ashley curtains remains vibrant in homes around the world, a testament to the enduring power of beautiful, thoughtfully crafted textiles to transform our living environments.

For those who value quality and timeless style over passing trends, Laura Ashley curtains remain not just a window treatment, but an investment in creating a home that feels both deeply personal and connected to a rich design heritage. In that sense, they are not merely decorative objects but bearers of a design philosophy that continues to resonate with homeowners seeking beauty in their everyday surroundings.