We bought these curtains as a replacement to some cheap, stiff, lower quality curtains we got out of the need for something quick. What a difference these new curtains make! They are a satin finish, soft, and flowy while still blocking out light. They do not block out 100% of the light but about 90%, which is still enough light blockage to sleep in or take a nap (important if you have a job that isn't a 9-5). As other reviewers have said, the white of the pattern isn't a bright white but I don't mind. Overall both my husband and I are happy with the curtains and they look great in our room.