Available for infants, toddlers, and youth alike, a girls canopy bed can add a flair of the dramatic to any girls bedroom! Available in a variety of styles, canopy beds can be simple, ornate, wood, metal, or any other style imaginable.
A traditional canopy bed will have four posters with attached beams between them. The fabric canopy will be secured to this framework, and can be either left free flowing to encompass the space, or tied back to frame the bed area. Some girls’ beds will place a valance across the ornamental top of the bed in an arch shape. This canopy will reduce any tripping hazards from flowing curtains, but still give the sense of mystery desired in a canopy bed. For youth, most valance canopies are white or yellow in color. A traditional canopy bed will require a certain amount of clearance in the room as they tend to be quite tall. The fabric may also be hard to drape across the top of beds larger than a twin, and it may be difficult to clean. The canopy frame is usually in metal for girls, but it is possible to find hardwood beds as well. Wooden frames are a more expensive option, and the bed frame starts at $500, with additional charges for the canopy starting around $40. Metal frames can be found at discount dealers, such as Big Lots, starting around $100.
Another option to create a faux girls canopy bed involves hanging a canopy secured to a metal hoop to the ceiling. The curtains can be draped to the side of the bed to give a four poster look. For girls’ canopies, it is common to have butterflies, fairies, princesses, ladybugs, beading, or sequins as the theme. The canopy will usually be made of mosquito netting and may have small embellishments on the hoop or in the netting to add shine and sparkle. The faux canopy will be hung directly on the ceiling via a wire and hook similar to what is used for planters. As these transitional pieces are easy to install, and require no existing hardware, they provide an excellent opportunity to transform a room easily. The free-standing canopy is rather inexpensive and starts around $15.
Any girls canopy bed must be properly accessorized to convey the feeling desired for the room. Some popular lines specifically designed for young girls are made by Disney, Bratz, and Barbie. Full lines will include the canopy, comforter set, wastebaskets, dressers, chairs, lamps, and even faceplate and outlet covers. While complete sets are easy to use, if not arranged appropriately the theme may become a bit overpowering. Also, the cost of completely decorating in one style may be prohibitive when compared to the length of time it can be used. For example, having Winnie the Pooh as the entire bedroom is great for a young girl, but will most likely be outgrown by age 10 or before. However, the value of having a fantasy room with romantic canopy is immeasurable, as is all the magic of childhood! By selecting the right style for your little girl you will make treasured memories to be reflected upon for a lifetime.