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Choosing window treatments can feel overwhelming, especially when you're comparing two popular options like cellular shades and solar shades. Both offer energy savings and light control, but they work in completely different ways. We'll walk you through the key differences so you can make the right choice for your home. What Are Cellular Shades? Cellular shades—also called honeycomb shades—get their name from their unique construction. They're made from layers of fabric that form air pockets, kind of like a bee's honeycomb. These pockets trap air and create a barrier between your window and your room. This design makes them one of the most energy-efficient window treatments out there. You can find cellular shades in single-cell or double-cell designs. Double-cell versions have two layers of air pockets, which means even better insulation. They're available in different opacities too—from sheer and light-filtering to room-darkening and complete blackout. What Are Solar Shades? Solar shades are made from a single layer of woven, screen-like fabric. They're designed to block UV rays and reduce glare while still letting you see outside. Think of them like sunglasses for your windows. These shades come in different openness percentages, usually ranging from 1% to 14%. A 5% solar shade blocks 95% of UV rays while letting in 5% of light. Lower percentages give you more UV protection but less visibility, while higher percentages maintain your view but let in more light. Energy Efficiency: Which One Saves More? Cellular shades win hands-down when it comes to insulation. Their honeycomb structure traps air and acts as a thermal barrier. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, well-installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 40% in winter and cut unwanted solar heat by up to 60% in summer. That translates to real savings on your energy bills year-round. Solar shades do help with energy efficiency by blocking sunlight before it turns into heat inside your home. But they don't offer the same level of insulation as cellular shades. Their main job is to reduce solar heat gain during warm months, not to prevent heat loss in winter. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures in both directions, cellular shades are probably your better bet. But if you mainly need to cool down sun-facing rooms in summer, solar shades can do the trick. Privacy Comparison Feature Cellular Shades Solar Shades Daytime Privacy Full privacy when closed Moderate privacy Nighttime Privacy Full privacy when closed Limited—people can see in when lights are on View to Outside Blocked when closed Maintained even when lowered Best For Bedrooms, bathrooms Living rooms, offices with great views Cellular shades give you complete privacy when they're closed. You can't see in or out, which makes them perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms. Solar shades work differently. During the day, they provide decent privacy—you can see out clearly, but people outside only see shapes and shadows. But at night, when your interior lights are on, the situation flips. People outside can see in pretty easily. If nighttime privacy matters to you, solar shades alone won't cut it. You'd need to layer them with curtains or blinds. Light Control and View Cellular shades offer more traditional light control. You raise and lower them to adjust how much light comes in. Light-filtering options let soft, diffused light through while blocking the view. Blackout versions can block up to 98-99% of incoming light—great for bedrooms or media rooms where you want it dark. The downside? When cellular shades are down, you can't see outside. That's not ideal for rooms where you have a nice view or want to keep an eye on what's happening outside. Solar shades are all about maintaining your view while managing sunlight. They reduce glare and block harmful UV rays, but they still let you see outside clearly. This makes them perfect for roller shades applications in home offices, living rooms with scenic views, or any space where you want natural light without the harsh glare. Style and Aesthetics Solar shades have a sleek, modern look that works well with contemporary interiors. They stack neatly when raised and maintain clean lines. You'll find them in various colors, though the fabric selection is more limited than other window treatments. Cellular shades offer more versatility in terms of colors, fabrics, and textures. They fit with various decorating styles—from traditional to modern. When raised, they maintain their structure and create a uniform, tailored appearance. You can also explore other options like roman shades or zebra shades if you want even more style variety. Maintenance and Durability Both types are pretty low-maintenance. Solar shades are slightly easier to clean—just dust them regularly or wipe them down with a damp cloth. Their single-layer construction means there aren't many places for dust to hide. Cellular shades can accumulate dust in their cells, so they need regular vacuuming with a brush attachment. Some people find them a bit trickier to keep clean than other window treatments. But with proper care, both types are durable and can last for years. If you're interested in washable options, roman shades might be worth considering as an alternative. Cost Considerations Pricing for both solar and cellular shades varies based on size, material quality, and features like motorization. Generally, they're both available in budget-friendly and premium options. Cellular shades might cost a bit more upfront, but they can save you more on energy bills over time. Solar shades are often less expensive and still provide good value, especially if your main goal is UV protection and glare reduction. Think about the long-term benefits. If you're in a climate with harsh winters or summers, the energy savings from cellular shades could offset the higher initial cost pretty quickly. Which One Should You Choose? Pick cellular shades if: You want maximum energy efficiency and insulation Privacy is a top priority (especially bedrooms and bathrooms) You experience extreme temperatures in both winter and summer You don't mind losing your view when the shades are down You want noise reduction benefits Pick solar shades if: You want to maintain your outdoor view Your main concern is blocking UV rays and reducing glare You primarily need cooling help in sunny rooms You have a great view you don't want to hide You prefer a modern, minimalist look Honestly? Many people use both in different rooms. Solar shades work great in living rooms and offices where you want to preserve your view, while cellular shades are perfect for bedrooms where privacy and temperature control matter more. Conclusion Both cellular shades and solar shades offer real benefits, but they excel in different areas. Cellular shades are your go-to for insulation, privacy, and year-round energy savings. Solar shades shine when you want UV protection and glare control without sacrificing your view. The right choice depends on your specific needs for each room. Think about your priorities—energy efficiency, privacy, view, light control—and match them to what each shade type does best. You can also mix and match throughout your home to get the best of both worlds. Ready to upgrade your windows? Check out our full collection at Aosky to find the perfect window treatments for every room in your home. FAQs Can cellular shades help lower my energy bills? Yes, they can. The honeycomb design traps air and creates insulation at your windows. Field studies show they can reduce heating energy by up to 20% and total energy use by up to 15%. The double-cell versions offer even better performance, especially in extreme climates. Do solar shades provide privacy at night? Not really. Solar shades work on a light-to-dark principle—you see toward the brighter side. During the day, you can see out but people can't see in. At night when your lights are on, the opposite happens. If you need nighttime privacy, you'll want to pair solar shades with curtains or choose a different option like cellular shades. Which is better for blocking heat—cellular or solar shades? It depends on the situation. Cellular shades provide better overall insulation and work in both summer and winter. Solar shades are specifically designed to block sunlight before it enters your home, which can be more effective at preventing solar heat gain during the day. For all-season performance, cellular shades are the better choice. Can I get blackout options in both types? Cellular shades come in blackout options that can block 98-99% of light. Solar shades don't offer true blackout—they filter light but don't eliminate it completely. If you need total darkness for sleeping or watching movies, go with blackout cellular shades. Are solar shades and cellular shades easy to clean? Both are relatively low-maintenance. Solar shades are easier to clean—just dust regularly or wipe with a damp cloth. Cellular shades need vacuuming with a brush attachment to remove dust from the honeycomb cells. Neither requires intensive cleaning, but solar shades have a slight edge in ease of maintenance.

Shopping for cellular shades can feel overwhelming when you're staring at dozens of options. We get it—there's single cell vs double cell, different pleat sizes, light filtering vs blackout, and a whole list of features you didn't even know existed. But here's the thing: picking the right cellular shades doesn't have to be complicated. We'll break down what actually matters so you can find shades that work for your space and your budget. Single Cell vs Double Cell: What's the Real Difference? Think of cellular shades like a honeycomb—they trap air in little pockets to keep your home comfortable. Single cell shades feature one row of hexagonal cells stacked on top of one another. Double cell shades have two rows of cells that fit into one another to provide an added layer of protection and insulation. So which one should you get? Double cell material is your best bet when comparing single vs. double cellular shades for energy efficiency. If you're dealing with extreme temps—sweltering summers or freezing winters—the extra layer makes a real difference on your energy bill. Double cell shades double the layers of fabric and air pockets, making them much more effective at insulating your windows. During winter, these shades create a stronger barrier between the cold outside and the warmth inside, reducing energy costs. But single cell shades aren't a bad choice. Single cellular shades generally cost less than double cell shades. There's less material involved, which means shorter manufacturing times. They're lighter, easier to handle on large windows, and still offer way better insulation than standard blinds. For moderate climates or rooms that don't need maximum temp control, they work just fine. Light Filtering vs Blackout: Match Your Fabric to Your Room Here's where you need to think about how you actually use each room. Light filtering fabrics let natural light in while giving you privacy—great for living rooms, kitchens, and home offices. You get that soft, diffused glow without people seeing straight into your house. Blackout honeycomb shades block out incoming light, offering maximum privacy and darkness – making them the ideal window treatments for bedrooms, nurseries and media rooms. If you work night shifts, have a baby who needs daytime naps, or just can't sleep with any light creeping in, blackout is worth it. And look, double cell and single cell shades are similar in their effectiveness in blocking incoming light. However, the material you choose will determine how much light your cellular shades let in. So you're not locked into one or the other based on cell type. Cell Size Matters More Than You'd Think Cell size (also called pleat size) ranges from 3/8 inch to 2 inches. Smaller cells create more pleats, which can look busy on large windows. Larger cells have fewer pleats and a cleaner look. 3/8 and 9/16 inch cell sizes are ideal for smaller windows and are lighter and easier to handle than larger cell shades. 1/2 and 3/4 inch cells are ideal for medium to large windows. 1 ¼ inch cells are intended for oversized windows. The size you pick depends partly on your window dimensions and partly on aesthetics. If you're going for a modern, minimalist vibe, larger cells usually look better. Smaller cells work well on narrow windows or if you like a more traditional look. Lift Systems: Cordless, Motorized, or Top-Down/Bottom-Up? Cordless is pretty much the standard now—safer for kids and pets, and the clean look is nice. You just grab the bottom rail and lift. Simple. Top-down bottom-up shades can be lowered from the top, raised from the bottom, or both. For example, if you want to let in natural light but maintain privacy, you can lower the shade from the top and keep the bottom of the shade closed. Top-down bottom-up shades are not only stylish, but provide you with the greatest flexible in terms of light control and privacy. They're perfect for bathrooms, street-facing windows, or anywhere you want light without sacrificing privacy. Motorized shades add convenience, especially for tall or hard-to-reach windows. You can schedule shades to adjust whenever you want, including scheduling them to open and close at set times, giving your home a lived-in look while you're not there. You can also capitalize on the energy efficiency you get from cellular shades. With motorization, you can schedule your shades to be in the best positions to block heat loss when it's cold or keep out harsh rays in the summer. Yeah, they cost more, but if you've got a bunch of windows or mobility issues, they're a game-changer. Color Selection: Neutral or Bold? Most people go neutral—whites, creams, grays—because they work with any décor and won't clash if you redecorate. White and light colors also reflect heat better in summer, boosting energy savings. But if you want to make a statement or add warmth, darker colors work too. Just know that they'll absorb more heat, which might not be ideal for sun-drenched windows. The good news? You can order free swatches from most companies to see how colors look in your actual lighting before committing. Room-by-Room Recommendations Bedrooms: Go blackout, and consider double cell for better noise reduction if you live on a busy street. Due to their honeycomb construction, both double cell and single cell shades provide excellent noise-reducing qualities. The cells trap noise similar to how they trap air coming in from the outside. Double cell shades have two layers of cells, so they'll block out twice the amount of sound. If you live in a particularly busy and noisy area, we recommend double cellular shades. Living rooms and kitchens: Light filtering single cell shades usually do the trick. You want natural light during the day, and these rooms don't typically need total darkness. Bathrooms: Top-down/bottom-up is your friend here. Privacy below, light from above. But heads up—Cellular shades are great for privacy, but not great for bathrooms or kitchens. Since they are made of soft fabric, they tend to absorb moisture. If you have good ventilation, you're probably fine, but high-moisture bathrooms might be better suited to roller shades or other moisture-resistant options. Home offices: Light filtering to cut glare on screens while keeping the room bright. Motorization is nice if you're adjusting throughout the day as the sun moves. Measuring and Mounting: Inside vs Outside Inside mount sits within the window frame for a clean, built-in look. Outside mount covers the entire window and frame, giving you better light blockage and insulation. If you want true blackout, outside mount helps eliminate light gaps at the edges. Measuring is pretty straightforward, but measure three times (top, middle, bottom for width; left, center, right for height) and use the smallest width and largest height for inside mount. For outside mount, measure the area you want to cover and add a few inches for overlap. What About Other Shade Options? Cellular shades are fantastic for energy efficiency and versatility, but they're not your only option. Roman shades offer a softer, more traditional look. Zebra shades give you adjustable light control with alternating sheer and solid bands. Shangri-la shades blend the elegance of sheers with the functionality of blinds. And if you want natural texture, woven wood shades add warmth and style. Browse our full collection at aosky.com to compare styles and find what works best for each room. Conclusion Choosing the best cellular shades comes down to a few key decisions: single or double cell based on your insulation needs, light filtering or blackout based on the room's purpose, the right cell size for your window dimensions, and lift systems that match your lifestyle. Start by figuring out what matters most—energy savings, light control, privacy, or convenience—and the rest falls into place. And if you want a shade that's easy to clean and maintain, you might also want to check out this guide on cleaning Roman shades for tips that apply to fabric shades in general. FAQs Are cellular shades really energy-efficient? Yes. A major benefit to cellular shades is excellent insulation. Their honeycomb construction traps the air inside, guarding against both heat and cold. Double and triple-cell shades add even higher levels of insulation. This can mean lower energy bills all year round! The trapped air acts as a buffer, reducing heat transfer through your windows. Can I install cellular shades myself? Absolutely. Most cellular shades come with brackets and instructions for DIY installation. You'll need a drill, measuring tape, and about 30 minutes per window. If you're mounting multiple shades or dealing with unusually shaped windows, take your time with measurements—that's where most mistakes happen. How do I clean cellular shades? The good news is that cellular shades are very easy to clean and maintain. They're typically made of durable, anti-static fabrics, so light dusting or vacuuming from time to time is usually all you need. For deeper cleaning, you can use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment. Avoid soaking them since the fabric can absorb moisture. What's the difference between cellular shades and honeycomb shades? Nothing—they're the same thing. The terms are used interchangeably. The "honeycomb" name comes from the distinctive cell structure that looks like a beehive when viewed from the side. Do cellular shades work on large windows or sliding doors? Yes, but you'll want to think about weight and operation. For large expanses, single cell shades are lighter and easier to raise and lower. Motorization or continuous cord loops can also help with oversized shades. Some manufacturers offer vertical cellular shades specifically designed for sliding glass doors.

Shopping for window treatments can feel overwhelming with so many options. Two popular choices often appear similar at first glance: pleated and cellular shades. Both feature crisp, folded fabric and offer privacy and light control. But look at them from the side, and you'll spot the real difference. We're breaking down everything you need to know about pleated versus cellular shades—from how they're built to how much they cost—so you can make a smart choice for your home. Whether you're after energy savings or just love the look of clean, modern window coverings, this guide will help you decide. How They're Built Pleated shades are made from a single layer of fabric folded into an accordion-like pattern. Think of them as one continuous piece of material that stacks neatly at the top when raised. From the side, you can see that pleated shades only have a single layer of fabric that creates a zig-zag, so there are no pockets. Cellular shades—also called honeycomb shades—take a different approach. They're made of two layers of fabric joined to create a honeycomb-shaped structure, which can best be seen looking at the side of the shade. The chambers hold air, which helps the shade insulate against heat and cold. You can get single-cell or double-cell versions, with double-cell offering an extra layer of air pockets for better temperature control. Both types come in 1-inch or 2-inch pleats, with the larger size working better for bigger windows. Both also compress tightly when raised, giving you a clear view. Energy Efficiency Showdown Here's where the two really split. Cellular shades provide more energy efficiency than pleated shades because of their honeycomb construction. Those air-trapping cells act as a barrier against outdoor temperatures. In heating seasons, tightly installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through windows by 40% or more, which equates to about 10% heating energy savings. During summer, they work just as hard blocking solar heat gain. If you live somewhere with hot summers or cold winters, this can make a real difference in your energy bills. Pleated shades offer some insulation, but not nearly as much. Pleated shades offer minimal insulation compared to cellular shades, as they lack the air pockets that trap heat. You can add liners for better performance, but they still won't match the thermal efficiency of cellular options. We carry a full range of cellular shades designed for year-round comfort. If you're exploring other energy-smart options, check out our roller shades and roman shades too. Light Control Options Both shade types give you solid light control, but with different approaches. You can achieve any level of light control you desire with pleated shades, as every fabric has its own unique light control and privacy capability. You also have the option of adding a privacy liner or blackout liner to increase your light control. Cellular shades offer the same range—sheer, light-filtering, and blackout fabrics are all available. The difference? Pleated shades let in more light than cellular shades because of their single-layer construction. If you want soft, diffused light with serious privacy, cellular shades have the edge. One thing to note: The unique fabric composition of honeycomb blinds allows the operating cords to run within the cells, meaning they are not visible, while pleated blinds have visible stitching running through the single layer of fabric. This means cellular shades can block more light around the cord area. Cost Comparison Budget matters, and there's a clear winner here for affordability. Cellular shades generally cost more than pleated shades because of the honeycomb-shaped design that requires a three-dimensional construction. Pleated shades are the budget-friendly option. Their simpler construction means lower upfront costs. You can dress up multiple windows without breaking the bank. Adding special fabrics or liners will increase the price, but you'll still typically pay less than for cellular shades. That said, cellular shades can pay for themselves over time. While cellular shades might be more expensive upfront, their energy-saving benefits can lead to cost savings over time, offsetting the initial investment. If energy efficiency is a priority, the monthly utility savings add up. Maintenance and Durability Both types are fairly low-maintenance. Pleated shades are generally durable but may lose their crispness over time if not properly maintained, and they're relatively easy to clean, usually requiring a gentle vacuum or spot cleaning. Cellular shades are known for their durability and maintained structure for years, and cleaning is straightforward, often needing only a light vacuum or gentle wipe-down. The honeycomb cells can trap dust inside, so you'll want to use low suction when vacuuming to avoid crushing them. The pleats retain their shape better over time in cellular shades than pleated shades. Both are made from durable, anti-static fabrics that resist dust buildup. Both also come with cordless and motorized options for child and pet safety. Style and Fabric Selection When it comes to pure variety, pleated shades win. Pleated shades offer interesting colors and intriguing patterns, and the simple design allows for a dazzling array of fabric options. This diversity of color and patterns is the main reason customers choose pleated shades. Cellular shades have come a long way in fabric selection, though. You'll find plenty of colors, textures, and patterns. The difference is that cellular fabrics need to work within the honeycomb construction, which can limit some bolder design options. Both shade types offer a clean, modern look that works with any decor style—from traditional to contemporary. Both pleated and cellular shades add a strong visual element to a room, with the neatly pleated fabric adding both a linear element and texture, and a room filled with matching shades has a very finished look. Which One Fits Your Space? So which should you choose? It depends on what matters most to you. Pleated shades are great in rooms where thermal performance isn't critical—dining rooms, guest rooms, or decorative spaces, and their affordability and variety of textures make them a flexible choice. They're perfect if you want bold patterns or are working within a tight budget. Cellular shades excel in high-use areas: bedrooms, family rooms, and offices, and if a space needs daylight control, temperature balance, or sound absorption, this option delivers. If energy efficiency and noise reduction are high on your list, cellular shades are the better option due to their superior insulation properties. Both are easy to operate and install. Both look great alone or paired with drapery. The choice really comes down to whether you prioritize style variety or energy performance. We offer both options at Aosky, custom-made to fit your windows perfectly. Conclusion Pleated and cellular shades might look similar from the front, but they serve different needs. Pleated shades offer more fabric variety and a lower price point, making them perfect for rooms where energy efficiency isn't the top priority. Cellular shades deliver superior insulation, noise reduction, and energy savings—worth the investment if you want year-round comfort and lower utility bills. Think about your climate, your budget, and which rooms need the most help with temperature control. Either way, you're getting a clean, modern window treatment that'll serve you well for years. Need help deciding? Our team can walk you through the options and help you find the perfect fit for every room in your home. FAQs Do cellular shades really save money on energy bills? Yes. Cellular shades can reduce heat loss by up to 40% in winter and block up to 80% of solar heat gain in summer. This translates to roughly 10-15% savings on heating and cooling costs. The actual savings depend on your climate, window size, and how well the shades fit. Double-cell versions offer even better insulation. Can I get pleated shades to match cellular shade performance? Not quite. You can add privacy or blackout liners to pleated shades, which helps with light control and adds some insulation. But pleated shades will never match the thermal performance of cellular shades because they lack the air-trapping honeycomb structure. If energy efficiency is your main goal, cellular is the way to go. Which type is better for bedrooms? Cellular shades typically work better for bedrooms. They offer superior light blocking (especially with blackout fabrics), better sound absorption for quieter sleep, and help maintain consistent room temperature. The honeycomb cells also provide more privacy. That said, pleated shades with blackout liners can work well if you're on a tighter budget. Are cellular shades harder to clean than pleated shades? Both are fairly easy to maintain with light dusting or vacuuming. Cellular shades require a bit more care because dust can settle inside the honeycomb cells. Use low suction when vacuuming to avoid crushing the cells. Pleated shades are simpler—just a single layer to clean—but both types are made with anti-static fabrics that resist dust. Can both types be made cordless for child safety? Absolutely. Both pleated and cellular shades are available with cordless lift systems, top-down/bottom-up operation, and motorized controls. These options remove dangling cords, making them much safer for homes with kids and pets. Motorized versions also add convenience and can be integrated with smart home systems.

Arched windows bring character and natural light into your home, but finding the right window treatments can feel like a puzzle. You want something that looks great, works well, and doesn't fight against the unique curved shape. Roman shades are a favorite choice for arched windows, combining the soft look of fabric with practical light control. We've spent time researching the best roman shade options to help you dress your arched windows beautifully. Whether you're going for a clean, modern look or something more traditional, there's a style that'll work for your space. Why Roman Shades Work Well for Arched Windows   Roman shades and arched windows complement each other because they both lean toward luxurious, high-end aesthetics. The fabric creates a softer look than blinds while still giving you control over light and privacy. Most roman shades are installed just below the arch, allowing the shade to drop along the window's length while leaving the curved top open for natural light. This mounting approach gives you functionality where you need it and keeps the architectural beauty of the arch on display. Roman shades also come in different fold styles, fabrics, and colors. You can match them with other window treatments in your home or make them stand out as a design feature. Many styles work well with roller shades, cellular shades, or even drapery for a layered look. Best Roman Shade Style #1: Flat Fold Roman Shades   Flat fold roman shades feature a solid piece of fabric that hangs flat against the window when lowered. There are no seams, so if you pick a fabric with a bold pattern or intricate design, nothing interrupts the visual flow. If you're going with a bold or intricate fabric design, the flat fold style provides a flattering backdrop, as seams won't interrupt the pattern. This style works great for modern and contemporary spaces where clean lines matter. Because flat folds use less fabric than some other styles, they're often more budget-friendly. You can spend those savings on layering with drapery or upgrading the fabric quality. The slim profile also makes them perfect for French doors or shallow window frames. Best Roman Shade Style #2: Plain Fold (Knife Pleat) Roman Shades   Plain fold roman shades offer a smooth, streamlined look but include seams running every few inches to help the fabric fold more uniformly. The plain fold style is an excellent choice for windows where the shades are opened and closed regularly. This is actually the most popular choice among roman shade customers. The horizontal stitching adds structure without being too fussy. The neat pleats give your windows a polished, put-together look that works in just about any room. Plain fold shades hold their shape well over time. The seams help the fabric stack evenly at the top when you raise the shade, creating a clean finish. They're versatile and work with both solid fabrics and subtle patterns. Best Roman Shade Style #3: Soft Fold (Hobbled) Roman Shades Soft fold roman shades, also called hobbled shades, are constructed with loops of fabric that create a soft, rippled effect down the length of the shade, maintaining folds even when lowered. Due to the rich display of fabric, this style is ideal for more formal areas like dining rooms, sitting rooms, or primary bedrooms. The cascading folds add depth and texture to your windows. If you want a romantic, luxurious feel, soft fold shades deliver that in spades. More layers of fabric provide extra room darkening properties and create a classic valance effect when fully raised. Keep in mind these shades use more fabric, which means they cost more and stack bulkier when raised. They work best on windows with deep sills and where you plan to keep them lowered most of the time. Best Roman Shade Style #4: Relaxed Roman Shades Relaxed roman shades feature a soft, curved fold when raised that gives them a rustic, charming look, ideal for coastal, farmhouse, or boho aesthetic styles. They're less formal than other styles and bring a casual, lived-in vibe to your space. Due to their relaxed folds, these shades require dressing (adjusting the folds) every time they're raised, making them best suited to decorative applications and not compatible with motorization. If you're looking for something to raise and lower daily, this probably isn't your best bet. Relaxed shades work beautifully when layered with more functional treatments. Pair them with zebra shades or shangri-la sheer shades underneath for light control while keeping that soft, decorative look on display. Best Roman Shade Style #5: Natural (Woven Wood) Roman Shades Natural shades are built as roman shades, combining an age-old window treatment design with natural materials to create a timeless design element. Every natural shade is unique—the organic textures of bamboo, wood, grasses, and rattan make each shade one-of-a-kind. Natural roman shades bring warmth and an organic feel to arched windows. The texture adds visual interest without needing bold patterns or colors. They work well in spaces with lots of natural light where you want to filter sunlight gently. Natural roman shades are available in standard, looped, and old styles, with the standard flat design perfect for highlighting beautiful natural details. If you're into eco-friendly design, woven wood shades offer sustainable materials that look fantastic and function well. How to Choose the Right Style for Your Arched Windows Pick your roman shade style based on how you'll use it. If you're raising and lowering the shades daily, go with plain fold or flat fold. If the shade is mostly decorative and you want maximum visual impact, soft fold or relaxed styles might be the move. Think about your room's style too. Modern spaces look great with flat folds. Traditional rooms often call for soft fold or natural shades. And if you're going for that relaxed, casual vibe, relaxed or natural woven styles fit right in. Consider your fabric choice as well. Bold patterns show best on flat folds. Solid colors or subtle textures work beautifully with plain folds. And if you want the fabric to be the star of the show, soft folds give you that cascading, luxurious look. For more design inspiration, check out our roman shade pattern guide. Mounting Options for Arched Window Roman Shades You have a couple of mounting choices when installing roman shades on arched windows. The most common approach is mounting just below the arch. You can mount your shades directly below the arch to allow natural light to fill the room without sacrificing privacy, or you can cover the arch for a seamless aesthetic. Inside mount installations give you a clean, built-in look. The shade sits inside the window frame and doesn't take up wall space. Outside mount installations let you cover more of the window and can make the window appear larger. Mounting your roman shade outside the window frame visually elevates the window and conceals uneven or busy trim, creating a faux-valance effect when installed slightly higher and wider than the opening. If you want to cover the entire arch, you'll need custom arch-shaped shades, which are more specialized and often cost more. Most people stick with mounting below the arch since it's more practical and lets that beautiful curved architecture shine through. Conclusion Roman shades give you style and function for arched windows. The five best styles we've covered—flat fold, plain fold, soft fold, relaxed, and natural woven—each bring something different to the table. Flat and plain folds work well for everyday use with clean, versatile looks. Soft fold and relaxed styles lean more decorative and luxurious. Natural woven shades add organic texture and eco-friendly appeal. The right choice depends on your room's style, how often you'll adjust the shades, and the look you're going for. Mount them just below the arch to keep light flowing through the curved top, or go with custom arch-shaped options for full coverage. Whatever you pick, roman shades let you dress those beautiful arched windows without hiding what makes them special. FAQs Can roman shades be custom-made to fit the entire arch of the window? Yes, you can get custom roman shades made to follow the curve of your arched window. These are more specialized and typically cost more than standard shades. Many custom workrooms can create arch-shaped roman shades with a stationary upper portion that hugs the arch and an operable lower section. However, most homeowners choose to mount standard roman shades just below the arch to keep costs down and let natural light shine through the curved top. What's the difference between flat fold and plain fold roman shades? Flat fold roman shades are made from a single seamless piece of fabric that lies completely flat against the window. Plain fold roman shades have horizontal seams every few inches that help the fabric fold more uniformly when raised. Flat folds are great for showcasing bold patterns without interruption, while plain folds are the most popular option because they handle daily use better and create neat, even stacks when raised. Are roman shades a good choice for very large arched windows? Roman shades can work on larger arched windows, but you'll want to consider the weight of the fabric and the lifting mechanism. Heavier fabrics and large windows might need motorized options for easier operation. For very large arches, many designers recommend layering roman shades below the arch with cellular shades or other treatments on the curved portion. This gives you better light control and makes operation more manageable. How do I clean and maintain roman shades on arched windows? Most roman shades can be cleaned with regular vacuuming using a soft brush attachment while the shade is lowered. For deeper cleaning, some fabrics can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water—always check the manufacturer's care instructions first. Natural woven shades should be dusted regularly and never soaked. Because arched windows are often high up, consider choosing motorized shades or ones with easy-to-reach controls to make maintenance simpler. Can I layer roman shades with other window treatments on arched windows? Absolutely. Layering roman shades with drapery panels on either side creates an elegant, high-end look. You can also combine roman shades on the lower portion of the window with cellular shades or other treatments that fit the arch. This approach gives you both decorative appeal and practical light control. Just make sure there's enough mounting space and that the treatments don't fight for the same space when stacked.