“Silhouette” is actually a brand of window covering from Hunter Douglas that, as the original and “gold standard,” has come to be used to designate a style of window covering (sort of like the name “Kleenex” is used universally for facial tissues).

Silhouettes are comprised of fabric louvers (like a Venetian blind) enclosed, front and back, within a layer of sheer fabric. When the blind is fully lowered, the fabric louvers can be closed to provide privacy and a varying degree of light diffusion. When the fabric louvers are opened, light is allowed in, the window can be seen through, and the sheer layers of fabric encasing the louvers provide a strong measure of glare reduction. The whole blind can also be rolled up into its headrail to open up the window entirely.

The Blinds Connection has a variety of fabric options available in louver widths of 2 inches, 2-1/2 inches, and 3 inches.

Why do people like silhouettes?

Silhouettes offer an extremely stylish, breezy look that can be incorporated into a variety of design styles. The glare reduction properties make it an ideal choice for rooms that receive lots of natural, direct sunlight, but where covering the windows entirely during sunny periods is not preferred.

What brands of louvered shades are available?

As a Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer the Blinds Connection sells and installs the full line of Silhouette and Nantucket louvered shades.