Zebra Shades in Austin, TX
Zebra shades, also called banded, dual, or Sheer Elegance shades, use two layers of fabric with alternating sheer and solid stripes. Slide the layers so the stripes line up for light and view, or offset them for privacy.
You get much of the light control of a blind with the soft, modern look of a fabric shade.
How zebra shades work
A zebra shade is one continuous loop of fabric with alternating sheer and solid horizontal bands. The loop passes in front of and behind the roller, so you see two layers. Raise or lower it slightly and the bands either line up (sheer over sheer) for light and view or offset (solid over sheer) for privacy.
When fully raised, the fabric rolls neatly into a cassette valance at the top of the window.
Why we recommend them in Central Texas
Zebra shades give you blind-like light control in a soft, modern fabric. That's why they've become one of the most requested treatments in Austin homes, and why our old site called them Sheer Elegance shades, a popular brand name for this style.
They're a strong choice for living rooms and bedrooms where you want daylight and privacy in the same window. See how they compare in zebra shades vs. roller shades.
Benefits
What you get with custom zebra shades from ATX Blinds & Draperies.
Adjustable light
Shift the bands for view or privacy without raising the shade.
Modern look
Clean horizontal lines with a cassette valance.
Room darkening options
Solid bands can be room darkening for bedrooms.
Every lift option
Chain, cordless, or motorized.
Best for
- Living rooms and bedrooms
- Modern interiors
- Rooms that need both light and privacy
- Replacing older blinds
Options
- Many colors and band widths
- Light filtering or room darkening
- Chain, cordless, or motorized
- Cassette valance
- Smart hub for phone app and voice control, at home or away
Good to know
- Even when the bands are closed, zebra shades don't make a room fully dark. For bedrooms that need blackout, add draperies or choose a blackout roller shade.
- They don't keep a clear outward view the way a solar shade does.
What affects the price
- Size of each window (wider and taller costs more)
- Fabric or material you choose
- Lift system: chain, cordless, or motorized
- Mounting hardware, cassettes, or tracks
- Number of windows (larger orders often price better per window)
- Specialty shapes and hard-to-reach installs
Every quote is free, in writing, and broken down by window. See our cost guide.
Our process
Consultations are available seven days a week.
Free consultation
We come to you with samples and look at every window, how it faces, and how the room is used.
Measure & quote
We measure every window precisely and send a written quote within 24 hours.
Professional install
We install, test, and clean up. Products are covered by manufacturer warranties.
Care & maintenance
A few minutes now and then keeps them looking new.
Dusting
Dust every few weeks with a microfiber cloth, a feather duster, or the soft brush on your vacuum set to low suction. Regular dusting keeps buildup from settling into the weave.
Spot cleaning
Blot small marks with a soft cloth dampened with water and a little mild soap. Blot, don't rub, and let the fabric dry fully before you raise the shade.
Everyday use
Raise and lower the shade with the chain, bottom bar, or motor, never by pulling on the fabric. If it starts rolling unevenly, call us and we'll adjust it.
Zebra shades: common questions
Have another question? Call (512) 751-8408.
Are zebra shades the same as Sheer Elegance shades?
Yes. Sheer Elegance is a well-known name for this style. Zebra, banded, and dual shades are other names for it.
What's another name for zebra shades?
Banded shades, dual shades, transitional shades, and Sheer Elegance shades are all names for the same style.
Are zebra shades good for bedrooms?
Yes, with room darkening bands for privacy. For total darkness, pair them with blackout draperies.
Do zebra shades block heat?
They reduce glare and some heat, but solar shades and cellular shades do more for hot windows.
Can I control motorized shades from my phone?
Yes. Add a smart hub and you can raise, lower, group, and schedule everything from an app on your phone, at home or away, and connect to popular voice assistants.
Helpful guides
More detail before you decide.
Zebra Shades vs. Roller Shades: Which Is Right for Your Room?
Compare zebra (banded, Sheer Elegance) shades and roller shades: light control, privacy, view, darkness, look and which rooms each works best in..
Related products
Zebra shades near you
Get a free quote on zebra shades
Tell us a little about your project. We'll call to set a time that works, any day of the week, and bring our mobile showroom to you.
(512) 751-8408Text us: (512) 751-8408info@austintexasblinds.comConsultations available Monday through Sunday.
What happens next
- We call you from (512) 751-8408, usually the same day. Save our number so you know it's us.
- No answer? We'll text you from the same number to find a good time.
- We bring the showroom to you: samples at your windows, and we measure everything.
- Written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.