Dual Shades
Zebra Shades
Zebra shades are roller shades made from alternating bands of sheer and solid fabric. Shift the bands to line up for privacy, or offset them to let soft light through. They are also called zebra blinds, dual shades, banded shades or layered shades.
Curtain Avenue makes custom zebra shades for Long Island homes, sized to every window. Choose your fabric, band style and lift, then see it in your own light before you buy.
At Curtain Avenue, we make honeycomb shades to fit your exact windows. Choose light-filtering or blackout fabric, then a cordless, top-down bottom-up or motorized lift. See every option at our Huntington Station showroom on Long Island.
How do zebra shades work?
A zebra shade is one continuous loop of fabric with two layers, front and back. Each layer has stripes of sheer and solid fabric. When the solid stripes cover the sheer ones, the shade is closed. When the sheer stripes line up with each other, light comes through. A small turn of the roller moves the shade between the two.
Open position: sheer over sheer. Soft daylight and a filtered view out.
Closed position: solid over sheer. Privacy and much less light.
Fully raised: the shade rolls up into the cassette for a clear view.
Zebra shades vs. roller shades vs. blinds
Zebra shades sit between roller shades and blinds. You get the clean look of a roller shade with the adjustable light of a blind, without slats to dust.
| Feature | Zebra shades | Roller shades | Horizontal blinds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light control | Adjustable bands | Up or down only | Tilting slats |
| Look | Modern stripes | Flat, minimal | Classic lines |
| Privacy when “open” | Partial, through sheer bands | None when raised | Partial when tilted |
| Cleaning | Wipe or vacuum fabric | Wipe or vacuum fabric | Dust each slat |
| Best for | Living rooms, offices | Bedrooms, media rooms | Kitchens, bathrooms |
See our roller shades or wood blinds to compare.
Are zebra shades blackout?
Standard zebra shades are light-filtering, not blackout. Even when closed, a little light passes through the sheer bands. For darker rooms, choose a room-darkening zebra fabric with heavier solid bands. For full blackout, pair a zebra shade with blackout curtains or choose blackout cellular shades.
Do zebra shades give privacy at night?
In the closed position, zebra shades give good privacy at night. Solid bands cover the sheer bands, so shapes are hard to see from outside. In the open position, people outside can see in through the sheer bands when your lights are on. Close the bands at dusk.
Cordless and motorized zebra shades
Zebra shades come with cordless, chain or motorized lifts. Motorized zebra shades are the easiest way to adjust the bands precisely.
Cordless: pull the bottom rail to raise, lower or shift the bands. No loose cords.
Continuous chain: good for large, heavy shades. The chain is secured to the wall for safety.
Motorized: open, close and shift bands from a remote, app or voice assistant. Set schedules for morning light and evening privacy. Read our motorized guide.
Where zebra shades work best
Zebra shades suit rooms where light changes through the day.
Living rooms: let in daylight while cutting glare on the TV.
Home offices: soft light for video calls and screens.
Street-facing windows: daytime privacy without darkness.
Modern kitchens: easy-clean fabric and a crisp, striped look.
For bedrooms, choose a room-darkening fabric or layer zebra shades with drapery.
Are zebra shades still in style?
Yes. Zebra shades remain popular in modern and transitional homes because they are clean, simple and practical. Neutral fabrics like linen-look whites, greys and taupes keep them timeless. Bold contrast bands give a more graphic, contemporary feel.
How much do zebra shades cost?
The cost of a custom zebra shade depends on window size, fabric, lift system and mount.
A cordless shade costs the least, and a motorized shade costs the most. Ready-made zebra shades cost less but rarely fit exactly. We quote every window after measuring, at no obligation.
Custom zebra shades on Long Island
Curtain Avenue designs, measures and installs custom zebra shades from our showroom at 470 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY 11746. We serve homes and offices across Nassau and Suffolk County.
- Book a free consultation in the showroom or at home.
- Choose fabric, band style and lift from real samples.
- We measure every window for a precise, gap-free fit.
- Our team installs and programs any motorization.
Zebra shades FAQ
What are zebra shades?
Zebra shades are roller shades with alternating sheer and solid fabric bands. Shifting the bands lets you switch between soft, filtered light and privacy.
What is the difference between zebra blinds and zebra shades?
There is no difference. “Zebra blinds” and “zebra shades” are two names for the same product, along with dual shades and banded shades.
Are zebra shades worth it?
Yes, if you want adjustable light without slats. They give more control than a plain roller shade and are easier to clean than blinds.
How do you clean zebra shades?
Dust with a soft brush or a vacuum on low. For spots, dab with a damp cloth and mild soap. Don’t soak the fabric or use harsh cleaners.
How do you measure for zebra shades?
For an inside mount, measure the width at the top, middle and bottom of the frame, and use the smallest number. Measure the height in three places and use the largest. Or book a free measure and we’ll do it for you.
Where can I buy custom zebra shades on Long Island?
Curtain Avenue makes and installs custom zebra shades at 470 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY. Call (631) 364-0360 or book a free consultation.
