10 Genius Ways to Style a Walk In Shower with Curtains

Introduction

A walk in shower brings elegance and modern flair to any bathroom. With their open layout, walk in showers offer a spacious feel, making even small bathrooms look more prominent. However, a shower curtain can soften the space, add privacy, and inject your style into the bathroom. Whether designing a new space or refreshing an old one, there are many ways to style a walk in shower with curtains that elevate both form and function.

This guide shares ten genius styling tips for walk in shower curtains that can completely transform your bathroom. From selecting the best materials to adding accents and textures, these ideas will help you create a visually appealing and highly functional shower space.

Choose the Right Curtain Materia

The curtain material you choose sets the foundation for your shower style and maintenance. Waterproof fabrics like polyester or vinyl are popular for walk in showers because they are water-resistant and easy to clean. They help prevent mold and mildew, keeping your bathroom fresh. If you prefer a softer look, fabric liners behind the main curtain work well, combining function and style.

Anecdote: I helped a friend redesign her bathroom, and she insisted on using a linen curtain for her walk in shower. After a month, she noticed it didn’t hold up well to water exposure. We switched to a waterproof polyester curtain, which kept her bathroom looking great and was much easier to maintain.

Add a Double Curtain Rod for Layers

A double curtain rod allows you to hang a decorative outer curtain and a practical inner liner, creating a layered look. This setup keeps water in the shower, adding depth and texture to your bathroom design. By layering, you can coordinate colors and textures between the curtains to match your bathroom’s decor.

Tip: With a double rod, you get the best of both worlds: an inner waterproof liner and an outer decorative curtain that you can change quickly to refresh your bathroom’s look.

Go Bold with Patterned Curtains

A bold, patterned curtain can be the focal point in a minimalist bathroom. Patterns like geometric shapes, florals, and stripes add character and visual interest, enhancing the style of your shower space. Patterned curtains work well in neutral-toned bathrooms, creating a unique contrast that stands out.

Anecdote: A client of mine loved bold patterns but worried about overwhelming her small bathroom. We chose a curtain with soft, muted patterns that added style without overpowering the space. It became the centerpiece and brought her vision to life.

Opt for Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains for a Luxe Look

For a luxurious, spa-like effect, try a floor-to-ceiling curtain that creates a grand, cohesive look. Hanging the curtain above the shower area gives the illusion of taller ceilings, making your bathroom feel more spacious. This approach works particularly well with neutral-colored curtains for a sleek, sophisticated feel or with dark, moody colors to add drama.

Coordinate Colors for a Cohesive Look

Color coordination is essential for achieving a cohesive, polished look in bathroom styling. You can create a balanced, unified space that feels thoughtfully designed by matching your shower curtain with other bathroom accessories like towels, rugs, and wall paint.

For a neutral bathroom, a brightly colored or boldly patterned curtain adds a pop of personality, bringing energy and warmth to the space. On the other hand, if your bathroom decor already includes vibrant colors or striking accents, a softer, neutral-colored shower curtain can provide a calming balance, grounding the design and making the space feel inviting rather than overwhelming.

When coordinating colors, consider using an accent shade from your shower curtain in other accessories—such as hand towels or bath mats—to create harmony throughout the room. This attention to detail makes even small bathrooms feel curated and intentional.

Use a Curved Curtain Rod for Extra Elbow Room

Installing a curved curtain rod is an excellent solution for those who want to add space to their walk in shower without extensive renovations. Unlike traditional straight rods, a curved curtain rod extends outward from the shower’s edge, creating a gentle arc that gives the impression of a larger, more spacious shower area. This additional room can make even the most minor showers feel roomier and more comfortable, allowing for a more enjoyable shower experience.

A significant benefit of using a curved rod is that it prevents the shower curtain from clinging to you, which is especially valuable in compact showers where a straight rod can make the space feel tight. The curved design keeps the curtain at a comfortable distance, offering more elbow room without taking up any additional square footage in the bathroom. This feature is ideal for renters or homeowners looking to impact significantly their bathroom’s comfort and functionality without a complete remodel.

Add Decorative Hooks and Accessories

Enhancing your shower curtain with decorative hooks, tiebacks, and weights is a simple yet impactful way to add style and function to your bathroom. Each accessory brings a unique touch that can elevate your curtain from basic to beautifully styled, making your walk in shower an eye-catching feature.

Start with decorative hooks that complement your bathroom’s overall aesthetic. For a modern look, choose sleek metal or matte black hooks, which add a contemporary touch. If you prefer a rustic or farmhouse style, opt for hooks in brushed brass, distressed finishes, or even hand-crafted wooden designs. Vintage-inspired bathrooms can benefit from ornate hooks with intricate details, adding a nostalgic charm.

Tiebacks are another functional and stylish addition. They allow you to pull back the curtain and let natural light flow into the shower area. They’re perfect for creating an open, airy feel and can be especially handy if you want to show off tile work or enjoy a more open look. Choose fabric tiebacks for a soft, relaxed vibe, or try rope and metal for added texture and contrast.

Curtain weights are a practical finishing touch, especially in walk in showers where air circulation might cause lighter curtains to billow. Weights along the bottom hem keep the curtain neatly in place, creating a streamlined appearance while preventing water from splashing outside the shower area. They’re also helpful for maintaining a polished, tailored look and keeping the bathroom tidy and well-organized.

Shop for shower curtain hooks and accessories to add a touch of personality and functionality to your bathroom setup. They beautifully combine aesthetics and practicality.

Keep It Simple with Minimalist Designs

For those who prefer clean lines, a minimalist shower curtain in a neutral shade can make a subtle yet sophisticated statement. Minimalism is all about quality over quantity, so opt for a high-quality curtain with a simple design. Matte black or white curtains pair well with minimalist bathroom styles, bringing your space a serene, spa-like feel.

Anecdote: My sister chose a minimalist theme for her bathroom. She used a plain white curtain with matte black fixtures, creating a calm, spa-like vibe that felt effortlessly chic.

Experiment with Textured Curtains for Depth

Choose a textured curtain to add depth and interest to your bathroom. Options like waffle weave, linen, or embossed polyester curtains bring a tactile element to your shower. Textured curtains can complement natural materials like wood and stone, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes your bathroom feel like a relaxing retreat.

Layer Curtains for a Luxurious, Spa-Inspired Look

Layering curtains provides versatility and creates a high-end, spa-inspired feel. Use a sheer curtain inside for privacy, with a heavier, textured curtain on the outside. This setup lets you control light and privacy while adding a rich, luxurious look to your walk in shower.

Anecdote: A client wanted her bathroom to feel like a high-end spa. We created a lush, inviting shower space that felt like a private sanctuary by layering a sheer curtain with a plush outer curtain.

Walk In Shower With Curtain vs. Glass Door: Which is Best for You?

When planning your shower style, the first choice is often between a walk in shower with a curtain and a glass door. While glass doors create a seamless, open look, curtains offer design, maintenance, and privacy flexibility. Curtains are easier to clean and replace and come in various styles and materials, allowing you to update your bathroom look without a full renovation.

Anecdote: A friend recently replaced her shower glass with a curtain after realizing how much easier it was to maintain. She loved how easily she could swap out her curtain design to match seasonal decor!

Conclusion

A walk in shower with the right curtain style can transform your bathroom into a functional and stylish space. Whether you prefer minimalism, a bold patterned look, or a luxurious layered feel, these styling tips can help create a shower space that aligns with your tastes. Explore different shower curtain materials, patterns, and curtain rods to find a style that brings your vision to life.

With the right approach, you can turn every shower into a relaxing, spa-like experience that enhances your bathroom’s aesthetic. Add personality to your bathroom by choosing a walk in shower curtain style that suits your unique style—and enjoy a practical and beautiful space!