Shades are another choice to consider for window coverings.  Window shades can be manufactured to completely block out light by adding a layer of blackout lining to the shade.  They are also well known for their capacity to produce a great deal of privacy and the ability to filter light from a room.  The one drawback to shades when compared to blinds is they can not be partially opened.  They only have two settings - up or down.

Regardless, shades are a very popular selection when looking for a means to effectively give a room privacy, block out light and noise, and still remain price conscious.  They come in many colors, textures and styles.  Below you will find some of the most popular shade styles available today. 

Roman Shades
Roman shades are known for their ability to dress up a window elegantly and beautifully with their neatly sewn folds.  Classical Roman shades also go by the name of “Hobbled” or “teardrop” style.  Within these two large categories (Flat and Classical) fall several subcategories to describe where the folds lie when the shades are lifted or let down.   Read more about roman shades.

Cellular Shades/Honeycomb Shades
Cellular shades differ from other styles in their unique honeycombed shaped cells.  Cellular shades are constructed of two (and in some cases up to three) pieces of layered fabric, pleated and formed into honeycomb shapes.  The pockets of trapped air are what make them so energy efficient.  To effectively double the insulation factor of cellular shades, an additional layer of light filtering fabrics can be added to their design.  Learn more about honeycomb shades.

Pleated Shades
A less expensive choice to cellular shades but with similar benefits and advantages is pleated shades, made with only one layer of polyester fabric.  Like the cellular shades, pleated shades are great light filters and a blackout fabric can be added for complete light blockage.  Pleated shades, although not as insulating as cellular shades, still help to keep hot and cold air out of rooms.  Learn more about pleated shades.

Roller Shades
With the help of a spring mechanism and a small tug on the bottom, roller shades easily roll up or pull down.  Roller shades come in vinyl, fabric or laminate and their thickness is variable and will depend on the purpose they will be used for.  Insulating roller shades are thicker while those used strictly for privacy can be thinner.  Read more on roller shades.

Woven Wood Shades
Made of natural materials such as wood, fiber, bamboo and even reeds and grasses, woven wood shades help bring a feel of the outdoors, nature and serenity into a room.  Like cellular shades woven wood shades are easily raised and lowered with the use of a cord which can be hidden or visible.  Read more on woven wood shades.

Bamboo Shades
Bamboo Shades fall within the Woven Wood Shades category, but they have become so popular that they deserve special mention.  These environmentally sustainable shades made of bamboo have extra depth of character because of their knotty patterns.   Read more on bamboo shades.