Drapery Heading Styles: Pinch Pleat, Ripple Fold, Grommet, and Rod Pocket
The "heading" is the top of a drapery panel - how it attaches to the rod and gathers the fabric. It is the single biggest factor in how your drapes hang, fold, and read: the same fabric looks tailored, casual, or modern depending entirely on the heading. Here are the four we are asked about most.
Pinch pleat
The tailored classic. Fabric is gathered into stitched pleats at the top - typically groups of two or three "fingers" - that hold a crisp, evenly spaced fold all the way down. Pinch pleat reads formal and traditional, and it is the go-to for dining rooms, living rooms, and any space that wants a dressed, structured look.
Ripple fold
Clean and contemporary. The fabric attaches to a track with carriers that create a continuous, uniform S-curve - a soft, consistent wave with no pleats at the top. Ripple fold suits modern interiors, large windows, and sliding-door expanses where you want a smooth, architectural line.
Grommet
Casual and easy. Metal rings (grommets) are set into the top of the panel and slide directly onto the rod, forming wide, relaxed folds. Grommet headings are simple to operate and lean modern-casual - good for family rooms, media rooms, and anywhere function beats formality.
Rod pocket
Soft and simple. A sewn pocket runs along the top and the rod slides through it, gathering the fabric into a shirred, cottage look. Rod pocket is best for stationary panels you do not open and close often - it is the most relaxed of the four.
Quick guide
- Formal / traditional: pinch pleat.
- Modern / minimal: ripple fold.
- Casual / easy to use: grommet.
- Soft, stationary, cottage: rod pocket.
Book a free in-home consultation and we'll match the right heading to your room and fabric.
Drapery heading questions.
What's the most formal drapery heading?
Pinch pleat - its stitched, evenly spaced pleats give the most tailored, traditional look.
Which heading looks most modern?
Ripple fold, with its clean, continuous S-curve and no top pleats, reads the most contemporary.
Which heading is easiest to open and close?
Grommet and ripple fold glide most easily; rod pocket is best left as a stationary panel.