Jan Kain of Olympia, Wash., has been dressing windows through her own business for nine years. She contends that blinds usually are the basic decoration for a window.

"Once they've determined the blinds," Kain says, "they want to warm up the window with soft fabric treatments."

Kain suggests window treatments for each room of your home. Living room: For a contemporary look, consider a straight pleated valance and draperies. For a corner window, try an abstract print fabric valance. A roped swag treatment will look traditional with a swag cascade. If you're into a country look, pouf valances will work well.

The living room should be formal. Carry one basic color from your living ...