For a fabric window treatment that though simplistic in structure, can configure with traditional decor’s ornamental details as well as with modern decor’s sophisticated minimalism, roman shades get the gold. Sleek, stylish, and efficient, custom roman shades satisfy even the pickiest client because of the myriads of colors and patterns they can sport. Not to be mistaken though with roman blinds that are non-fabric dressings, roman shades are constructed with fabrics and come in various styles. In this article, we will describe the top three styles of roman shades and how to choose the one that suits your needs.
Top Three Styles of Roman Shades
Whether you choose the relaxed roman shades or the structured flat fold ones, be assured of the customized look since they fit the window like a glove. This is exactly what clients who are fond of bespoke goods are looking for. All of the top three styles discussed here are truly classic and suit a particular kind of taste and preference. So, without more rigmarole, let’s get to them.
1. Flat fold roman shades with front slats
Flat folds with front slats are shades with slats stitched at equal intervals that show their seams on the frontage. This sturdy and structured shade has a highly tailored look. It can be stitched in any fabric of your choice and suits all types of decor. The architectural finish of this shade befits casual and semi-formal spaces. The slats aid the shade to form folds easily and are, therefore, recommended for windows that need to be opened and closed frequently.
A noteworthy feature of this style is the visibility of the seams and slat silhouettes. The front view’s visual breaks serve as a stitched-in pattern and are, therefore, highly recommended for plain and textured fabrics to bring visual interest to an otherwise plain fabric shade. The visible slats serve as an architectural feature of the shade itself.
2. Flat fold roman shades with back slats
The most suited style for minimalist decor settings, flat folds with back slats are stitched with slats but the slats show no sign of its seams on the frontage. This is achieved by sewing the slats into the lining behind the main face fabric. Hence, the benefits of lining the shade such as additional insulation and more light blockage are readily available in this style.
All sorts of fabrics can be used to stitch shades in this style. But since the slats are stitched to the lining, it’s not possible to stitch this style for shades without lining, such as sheer roman shades.
Since there are no visual breaks in the front view, this style is especially suited for bold patterns. It offers patterns a flat surface and shows them at their very best without any visual breaks. The slats proffer efficient functionality and hence, can be used with ease for windows that need frequent opening and closing. These versatile shades suit every kind of decor and are equally good in formal and informal spaces.
3. Relaxed/European roman shades
Those who want roman shades that strive after the plush and curvy features of drapes can quench their desire with the European roman shades. It has a scalloped curved bottom and has no slats. This unconstructed look is most matching for relaxed spaces.
The ornamental swag of the folds and bottoms make it ideal for traditional and feminine styled interiors. This style looks its best when stitched in delicate fabrics that form folds easily. These luxurious shades should ideally be kept stationary at the desired level and layered with custom drapes that confer the high-end look as well as fix the light leaks from the skewed edges.
If used as stand-alones, they are good for windows that don’t need regular operation since their folds need to be formed manually each time you operate them. Relaxed shades are not recommended for narrow windows since the bare minimum width cannot form stylish, deep curves.
How to choose the right style?
While all the three styles have pros and cons of their own, they cater to varied tastes and needs. How you choose the right style for your home must take into consideration the specific features of each style and your needs. The following points may be kept in mind:
Regularity of use of window
For windows that have a high level of usage, flat folds – which are functionally efficient – serve right. But worry not about using relaxed shades as well if you can pair them with drapes for the functional aspect and keep the shades stationary.
Fabric & lining
If your favorite style is solid plains, front slats or relaxed shades which feature tailored lines or curvy folds would be recommendable. Otherwise, they will look like one sweeping fabric with no element to generate visual interest. Whereas, the back slats with neat and flat frontages are the right kind of surface to showcase the aesthetic potential of patterns.
Also, if you do not want to use lining for your shades, opt for front slats or relaxed shades as ack slatted shades are not possible to construct without lining at all.
Overall decor style
If your decor style leans towards the crisp finishes of modern decor, flat folds’ straight bottoms fall in place. Relaxed roman shades can reign supreme in homes designed with layered treatment, embellished elements and curvy details.
The mood of the room
No points earned for guessing this one right! The laid-back spaces like your lounge and bedroom become truly relaxing with the relaxed shades and wood paneling. The structured front slats go well with formal and semi-formal spaces whereas the simplistic back slats fair well with both formal and informal spaces alike.
Splashy and humid zones
Since fabrics take long hours to dry and are prone to mold formation, it is better to avoid scalloped shades in bathrooms and kitchens which are more at risk of splashes from bubbly tubs and spluttering pans.
Final Words
We hope that this article has settled all your confusion regarding the most suitable style of roman shade for your home. Your high-priority needs and your overall decor style will ultimately guide you to take the right decision. So, with all this wisdom, shop with a clear mind and get the right type of roman shade for your home today.
