Give Outdated Window Treatments A New Look With Modern Zebra Shades

Window coverings serve the practical purpose of giving us control over the amount of light (and privacy) we allow into our homes. But they also say something about our design style. Does a neutral color with a simple pattern fit your aesthetic? Or do you prefer something bold and eclectic to make a lasting impression on your houseguests? If you spot your curtains or blinds among this list of once-popular window treatments that are now dating your home, it might be time for redecorating — no judgment if you can't part with your lace curtains, though. You do you.

One modern option is zebra shades, also known as layered or banded shades. This style works best in areas where you want to adjust the ambient lighting since it features a continuous roll of fabric with horizontal bands that alternate between sheer and opaque. You can adjust the shades throughout the day to meet your needs in the moment, giving you a range of choices depending on how the bands on both layers are aligned. Line up the sheer bands to let more light stream in for your plants, for example, or for more privacy and less light (or if you don't want to expose your artwork to direct sunlight), slightly or completely overlap the solid bands on top of the sheer rows.

One thing is certain: Just as the black-and-white patterns of zebras are eye-catching, so are the bands of their namesake shades, especially if you opt for boldly juxtaposing stripes. For that reason, they're ideal if you don't care for subtlety. Use them to draw attention to a view outside your window or to play up stark color contrast elsewhere in your home. The banded pattern of the shades can also complement strong lines used in your décor. You can also combine zebra shades with a cornice, the once-dated window treatment option that's making a comeback. Although this feature has traditionally been seen as structured and formal, its popularity is resurging thanks to a growing variety of styles, shapes, and textures. They can be playful, minimalist, or elegant to fit your room's purpose, décor, and architectural style. 

If you want blackout window treatments, though, zebra shades are not for you. This is one of the downsides of using this trendy window treatment. With two layers — one of them being sheer — some amount of light inevitably slips through. Because of this, bedrooms, media rooms, and other living spaces that benefit from being dark are not ideal for these coverings. However, you can pair them with blackout drapes to give you the flexibility of zebra shades and the darkness of blackout coverings.