These ones actually function as blinds! I originally purchased some semi-sheer roman shades for my livingroom and was disappointed when I found they were practically see-through from outside the house at night. These shades allow some light through during the day.. enough to provide some ambient light, and at night you can't see into the house at all! You can tell there's lights on inside, but that's it -- no silhouettes of people or things inside. Just what I needed.