Shower Curtain Fabrics That Add A Luxurious Look To Your Bathroom

Let's face it, when it comes to bringing opulence to a bathroom, that's usually the job of cool fixtures, tiles, and lighting, which you may not have had any choice in selecting. Since not all of us can afford to remodel the bathroom of our dreams, a quick and easy place to start is picking a shower curtain. It instantly sets the stage for the whole vibe of the bathroom. The shower curtain fabric you select can mean the difference between the ambiance of a luxurious hotel suite and a space that feels sad and uninspired. With luxe fabrics, like linen, velvet, and silk, you can bring an air of opulence to an otherwise ordinary area. And when you hang it with stylish curtain rings, your dream bathroom gets even closer to reality.

A fancy shower curtain pulls the whole look of a bathroom together. However, not all shower curtain fabrics are alike. Some are made from high-quality fabrics and have rich textures or sheens. Linen shower curtains have a medium weight and stay dry in humid environments. Cotton fabrics are considered more durable and come in eco-friendly options and a wide range of colors and textures. Polyester shower curtains mimic the look and feel of other fabrics, like silk and satin, but without the more expensive price. There are plenty of tips for determining the right shower curtain size, but these are our favorite fabric options that bring that extra something special. 

Velvet exudes luxury and, when it's added to a bathroom, it can instantly elevate the whole space. Velvet fabric is sleek and soft and can be made from materials like silk and cotton, which can make it more affordable to use around the house. It comes in an array of opulent hues to match virtually every bathroom style. But just because velvet might look like a high-maintenance fabric doesn't mean it is. Some velvet shower curtains can be thrown in the washer and will come out looking just as fabulous. 

Linen is a popular choice for shower curtains because it can dry faster than cotton. It has a laid-back, minimalist shower vibe that creates a spa-like retreat inside your home, offering a crisp refresh to every type of bathroom design. Its breathable, lightweight texture makes it an ideal choice for hanging in a bathroom, not to mention its natural antibacterial properties. Linen is also a breeze to care for, so if you decide on a linen shower curtain, you can pop it in the washing machine.

Add a splash of whimsy to your bathroom space with a shower curtain constructed out of sheer tulle. When you think of this type of fabric, it likely brings up images of tutus or wedding veils. But the great thing about tulle is that it has a natural artistic drape that's ideal for shower curtains as well as features a soft, airy aesthetic. Although it's a high-maintenance fabric that must be washed by hand, tulle is a timeless choice that elevates every bathroom with a truly graceful element.

As one of the most sustainable fabric options for regular curtains and for anyone who prefers an all-natural, eco-friendly aesthetic, a shower curtain that is constructed out of hemp fibers comes from naturally grown hemp plants. The fibers are similar to jute, linen, and flax, which means they dry faster than other fabrics and have antimicrobial properties. While it's not the most luxurious fabric, it is the one that's most biodegradable and checks all the boxes for helping the planet. 

Add texture and a posh aesthetic when you choose a jacquard shower curtain for your bathroom. Jacquard fabric is special in that it has a design already woven into its construction. Typically featuring brocade and damask patterns on showy drapes and high-end upholstery, the complex designs can range from dramatic to minimalist, leaving it with a rich, ornate texture any bathroom can use. Depending on the type, most jacquard fabric is on the heavier side, but for shower curtains, jacquard can be made from lightweight fabrics so it doesn't pull the shower curtain rod down.

Not everyone loves polyester. That might be due to the fact that it's a synthetic material, not eco-friendly, and isn't very breathable. With that said, polyester is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and dries quickly, which are all attributes you want in a shower curtain. Polyester shower curtains are probably the most common type on the market. The fabric can almost be mistaken for silk or satin, striking a balance between affordability and luxe appeal. Shower curtains also come with super swanky designs like cascading ruffles, pin-tucking, pleating, color-blocking, and more.

You can use satin for an amazing Anthropologie garland dupe or use a satin shower curtain to inject drama and sophistication in your bathroom. The fabric has a glossy, opulent look, which has transitioned from being used for evening gowns and slinky lingerie into smooth home decor. Satin shower curtains hang seamlessly and move effortlessly at the slightest touch. Although they are affordable and durable, they have a delicate appearance and lots of glossy shine. You can find satin shower curtains in a variety of styles, from minimalist to extravagant, and they won't disappoint. 

For modern and minimalist homes, matelassé fabric has a rich texture and quilt-like appearance. The French-inspired fabric is perfect for shower curtains because it blends elegance, durability, and a refined aesthetic. It mimics hand-stitched designs that give it a subtle three-dimensional style. Matelassé shower curtains are often made from cotton and sometimes even organic cotton fabric. When the shower curtain is a solid color, it has an understated tonal appearance. But you can also find matelassé shower curtains with elaborate designs, which work with virtually every home decor style, like farmhouse, vintage, French country, and more. 

Historically used for sailcloths, canvas is a heavy-duty, durable fabric that made its way into bags, camping gear, and more. When a shower curtain is made out of canvas, it can make a pretty bold statement in your bathroom. Its texture is slightly coarser than other fabric options, giving off a more natural, organic vibe than, say, synthetic fabric like polyester or vinyl. Although it doesn't have the same dramatic features as other fabrics, the unique look a canvas shower curtain brings will liven up any bathroom.