Replace Traditional Window Treatments: The Modern Alternative Taking Over In 2026

If ornate curtains are the default in your home, it might be time to give them a second thought. Those heavy frilly curtains and ruffly designs that look at home on the set of Bridgerton have no place in your modern space. And unless you're really leaning into a classic look in a period home, valances and tie-back tassels risk dating your room. Today, traditional window treatments are being replaced by something visually cleaner and more contemporary. The answer? Roman shades.

They might not be a novel idea, but Roman blinds are one of the biggest window treatment trends in 2026. According to Google Trends data, searches for "Roman shades" are up 50% from last year. There are particular styles that are proving especially popular, too. In The State of Home Design 2026 report by Apartment Therapy, over ⅓ of designers agreed that relaxed Roman shades were at the forefront of window treatment trends. Fortunately, you don't need to spend big to bring this design trend into your home, either. Roman shades come at a wide range of price points. You could even DIY your own Roman shades using a no-sew glue method. 

Roman blinds come in various styles like soft fold or European-relaxed silhouettes. Compared to traditional boxy curtains and fussy, dated drapes, they offer a softer look with more casual tailoring. When choosing the right window treatment, you also have to consider practicality, too. Installing Roman shades is simple and, unlike curtains, they offer more precise light control. Some also have a more space-saving design where the entire window treatment is contained in the frame, offering more minimalist appeal in line with contemporary design. 

Then there's the price to consider. Speaking with The Spruce, interior designer Jennifer McKissick identified Roman shades as one of the biggest window treatments of 2026, noting how the requirement of less material means more bespoke, quality fabric is possible. "They require about one-fourth of the fabric that long drapery requires, making them a great option to incorporate more expensive fabrics into your space," she says. Choose a patterned linen blend that will hold crisp, clean folds or, for a more dramatic look, consider velvet in your favorite shade to make a bold statement.