Roman shades are a simple and classic way to adorn windows. They are unobtrusive and can block a glaring sun or nosey neighbors. Bamboo Roman shades are popular for a natural or Asian décor, but fabric Roman shades are more traditional.

Fabric Roman shades are made from a single panel of fabric. A sting is run the length of the fabric so that when the cord is pulled, it raises the shade in regularly spaced panels. Sheer fabrics can provide easy mood lighting. They filter bright sunlight so that it is warm and soothing. Roman shades look great in children’s rooms. Pick a bright, playful color to liven the room, but can be pulled down easily for naptime. You can also have extra fabric in the panels for a billowy, playful look. Roman shades in the rest of the house, however, usually look best in a neutral color or pattern. The shade should not distract you from the rest of the room. Tailor thin, flat fabric folds for an elegant look, or use fuller “tear-drop” folds for a subtle embellishment.

You can combine fabric Roman shades with another window treatment. Keep the shades in a neutral color, and surround them with more elaborate curtains. Or make Roman shades look more finished by adding a fabric-covered board at the top in the same fabric or a complement.

To clean fabric Roman shades, vacuum them often to keep dust and dirt from accumulating in the fabric folds. For a deeper clean, you can try using foam upholstery cleaner. Make sure it can be used on your fabric first, though. Wipe off the foam with a dry cloth. You can also use commercial cleaners or dry cleaning. If the fabric Roman shade will be heavily used, like in a children’s room, you can treat the fabric with anti-static or stain-resistant finishes.