Stick With White

• Long, white sheer curtains add romance to rooms.Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  One of the "cleanest" options — which can also come across as sheer elegance — is to add pure white curtains. Touches of color can be added in art, vases, wall paint or wood trim. White is the color of purity and innocence. You have your choice of drapes with French pleats or long, flowing panels that let in light. Alternatively, using heavier fabric and a valance can reduce the light.
  
  

Add Some Texture

• Textured whites add a subtle backdrop.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  Texture in fabric can add grace and style to a room. Look for curtains that have very subtle patterns, such as those found in many types of lace. Alternatives can include density layers in drapes, such as those that have an embossed or embroidered pattern. Applique may not work so well with the leather couches, but if you add hints of texture in the drapes, also add pillows and throw cushions in the same or similar fabrics.
  
  

Double Up With Color

• Greens can set a calm scene.Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Hang two sections of rod instead of one. This allows you to use sheers underneath, nearest the windows, and a heavier drape on the room's innermost rod. You can combine white on white or start looking at color. Light sea or sage greens under a robust green would begin to dramatically alter the room's feel. Lighter yellows will help keep it bright. A cool, rich blue is nice for seaside dwellings or anyone wanting to create a Grecian mood. Use two shades of one color or mix and match colors to suit your taste. Work in tails and add complementing swags and tiebacks.
  
  

Daring Colors

• Purples add a royal touch.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  If you prefer to make a bold statement, look into patterned drapes, such as those with large florals or silk-screening. Heavy brocades that suggest a different era can work, depending on the fabric, but could appear too "period" with very modern-looking leather. Take your wall paint into consideration when deciding on your drapery. Bright red drapes with aqua wall color may work in rare cases, but red drapes with gathered pouf-tops hung against white walls with richly painted trim could prove quite dramatic.