Would you and your husband consider another type of window treatment for room darkening? I don't think there is anything you can do to make these drapes look better when they are closed like this. Something like blackout cellular blinds could be a better choice.

I agree. Shades would look better or get curtains in a pretty fabric. That fabric is too plain and drab looking.

Would you like to consider Roller Shades? There are different types, as mentioned above blackout will be the best option if you want to keep the sun away. I can show you some examples that we have on our Houzz profile!

Blackout with Treeshades · More Info

Balckout by Treeshades · More Info