Regarding French pleats, or pinch pleats, it's a style of heading on a curtain. Here are some examples:

These are pinch pleated on rings mounted on a rod. Pinch pleats are tacked a few inches down from the top:

Marquee Pinch Pleat Curtain Panel, Teal, 30"x144" · More Info

Close-up of a pinch pleat:

Box Pleated Valances with Buttons, Woven Roller Shades & Pleated Panels · More Info

These are French pleats, and are tacked at the top of the fabric. I like them better than pinch pleats:

Glenwood Residence · More Info

Well-made curtains really finish off a room. If you have the budget, having them custom made is a great way to get a beautiful professional look. They are lined and hang better than ready-made curtains.