West Elm Worn Velvet Curtains Review: Do They Actually Block 100% of Light?
By Ben Carter
8.6
Consumers Best Verdict: West Elm Worn Velvet Curtains Review: Do They Actually Block 100% of Light? Highlights
The draw here is that plush, lived-in velvet—soft handfeel, elegant drape, rich colorways—and the option to choose lining levels, including blackout. In 2026, value lands in the sweet spot when you catch a sale. You’re paying for design and quality, not gimmicks. If you want statement-making curtains that also tame glare and heat, these deliver. If you need lab-grade blackout, plan to pair them with a shade or light-blocking track. That’s the honest, “I’ve hung too many curtains to count” perspective from Consumer's Best.
Short answer: not by themselves. The standard west elm worn velvet curtains don’t block 100% of light. Add the blackout lining and a smart install (wraparound rod, generous overlap, ceiling-high mount), and you can get extremely close—close enough for most sleepers and home theaters. Edges still leak a touch, though, so “pitch black at noon” requires a layered setup. My take? They’re gorgeous, substantial, and with blackout lining they perform seriously well, just don’t expect miracle darkness without dialing in your hardware.
In-Depth Look: West Elm Worn Velvet Curtains Review: Do They Actually Block 100% of Light? Features & Considerations
Core Features & Consumer Benefits
Here’s what stood out while living with the west elm worn velvet curtains—beyond the obvious ‘wow’ factor.
Luxe, broken-in velvet
That soft, matte sheen and heavy drape instantly elevates a room without screaming shiny stage curtain.
Multiple lining choices
From unlined to room-darkening to blackout, you can tune privacy, glare control, and insulation to your space.
Better acoustics and comfort
The dense velvet helps hush echoes and buffer drafts—cozier bedrooms, calmer offices, less TV glare.
Flexible hang styles and styling
Compatible with common rods and rings, they stack and puddle beautifully for a tailored or relaxed look.
Deep, decorator-friendly colors
The palette plays nicely with modern, transitional, and vintage spaces—easy to match, easier to love.
Important Considerations & Potential Downsides
- 100% blackout reality check
Even with blackout lining, light can sneak in at the sides, top, and center seam. Use a wraparound rod, mount wider/taller, and overlap panels to minimize leaks.
- Price vs. panel count
For proper fullness (aim 1.5x–2x your window width), you may need extra panels—cost adds up fast unless you catch a promo.
- Care and upkeep
Velvet is generally dry-clean–only and can attract lint or pet hair. Keep a lint roller and soft brush handy; steam to relax creases.
- Weight and hardware
These panels are substantial. Flimsy rods will droop; invest in sturdy hardware and adequate anchors.
Who Is the West Elm Worn Velvet Curtains Review: Do They Actually Block 100% of Light? Best For?
Style-first decorators
You want that rich, designer velvet look that instantly elevates living rooms and bedrooms.
Light-sensitive sleepers
With blackout lining plus a wraparound rod, you’ll get near-total darkness for better shut-eye.
Home theater and WFH setups
You need real glare control and a quieter, more insulated space without going full commercial blackout.
Drafty or street-facing rooms
Heavier velvet helps buffer temperature swings and softens outside noise—subtle but noticeable.
Renovation-averse renters
You want a dramatic upgrade with simple hardware and zero permanent changes.
Who Might Want to Explore Other Options?
- You need true 100% darkness at all hours
Pair a dedicated blackout roller shade or side-channel track system with drapes, or choose specialized light-seal solutions.
- You’re on a tight budget
Consider basic blackout curtains from big-box or online value brands to cover larger spans for less.
- You want fully machine-washable panels
Look for washable microfiber or polyester blackout curtains designed for easy care.
- You prefer soft daylight over dimming
Choose linen or cotton sheers for filtered light and airflow rather than heavy velvet.
