Roman shades are fabric shades that stack and fold uniformly from the bottom up when they are raised. They can appear flat or looped when in the down position. Roman shades can be operated by pulling on strings, using a continuous loop of cord or bead chain, with a retractable pull cord, by an internal cordless system or be motorized. There are a variety of different styles of Roman shades including hobbled, waterfall, plain fold, flat, balloon, rear tucked, Austrian, London, tied and relaxed. The bottom of the shade can be scalloped, square, banded or have another type of decorative effect applied to it.

Roman shades had their beginning in Rome. When the Colosseum was dedicated in 80 A.D., it was the largest amphitheater in the Roman world. But it would get very hot while the over 50,000 spectators watched the entertainment. Large awnings were unfurled from the top story of the Colosseum to protect the audience from the hot sun as they watched gladiatorial combats, hunts, wild animal fights, and other entertainment. When not in use, the awning would fold back on itself for storage. This amazing innovation is still in use today but on a much smaller scale.

Roman shades are available in endless fabric choices today. They are well loved because they can fit in with any decor.