A French door is a door, usually one of a pair, with glass panes that extend for most of its length. Sometimes we need some privacy and those glass panes prevent us from getting it, so you need to treat these panes somehow. Today I’d like to share a couple of ideas how to do that with style.
Actually, French door window treatment is almost the same as with usual windows: curtains, blinds and both. Let’s consider each of them.
Why You Need a Window Covering for French Doors
When we first installed French doors in our dining room, I was obsessed. All that light! The open view into the garden! But then came the reality: dinner guests could see straight into the house from the backyard, and the sun glare at 4 p.m. was so strong, it practically turned the room into a tanning bed. That’s when I realized — as pretty as bare glass doors are, you do need a smart window covering.
Privacy was my first priority. I didn’t want blackout curtains (felt too heavy), but I also didn’t want the neighbors getting a front-row seat to my Saturday laundry folding sessions. That’s where light-filtering options like sheer French door curtains or frosted window film came in handy — you get soft light without giving up privacy. Total game changer.
Honestly, window treatments for glass doors aren’t just a “maybe.” They help with energy efficiency, comfort, and even make the doors feel more finished. If you’ve been putting it off because you’re not sure what to choose, trust me — there’s a solution out there that checks all the boxes. You just gotta find what fits your vibe.
Curtains
Fabric curtains are the most popular way to get some privacy and not to spoil the interior as even the most refined décor looks good with them. They were the first thing I tried on our French doors — mostly because I already had a pair in storage and figured, why not? But oh man, choosing the right type of curtain makes all the difference. I started with thick blackout panels, thinking they’d help with privacy and temperature. They did… but they also made the room feel dark and kinda heavy, even when pulled open. Lesson learned. Eventually I swapped them for light-filtering sheer panels, and it totally changed the vibe. The room felt airy again, but I still had that soft layer of privacy.
So yeah, fabric curtains totally work for French doors, but it’s all in the details: the fabric weight, the way they hang, and how easy they are to move when you’re living with them every day.
Patterned grey curtains over the French doors.
Simple modern grey curtains over the doors.
Rounded ceiling with neutral curtains by doors.
Color block cream and navy curtains over the doors.
Tulle curtains attached right to the doors.
Burlap curtains attached in bow shape to the doors.
Obscuring the gap above the French doors with a bamboo blind.
Black and creamy draperies over the windows and doors.
Neutral striped curtains over the French doors.
Silver draped French door curtains.
Heavy glamorous draperies for a refined interior.
Creamy silk draperies are right what you need for an airy look.
Colorful printed curtains echo with the bedspread.
Blinds
Roman or vertical shades are another popular idea, they can be of different colors and patterns. I didn’t go with blinds for our French doors, but I tested a few — mostly because they seemed like the simplest option. What I noticed right away is that not all blinds are French-door friendly. Regular ones were way too bulky, and the handles on the doors made them awkward. But I found some low-profile mini blinds specifically designed for doors, and they actually looked super clean once mounted.
What makes these work is how close they sit to the glass. You can use door-mounted brackets so they don’t swing around when you open or close the door. I also saw options with magnetic hold-downs at the bottom — a small but genius detail. If you want a clean, structured look without a lot of fuss, slim blinds are solid. Just make sure to measure exactly so they don’t interfere with your door trim or handles.
I ended up going another route, but honestly? If you like classic or minimalist style, blinds could be the easiest win.
Roman shades of burlap will keep your space private.
Handmade Roman shades echo with the rug.
French doors covered with white tiered shades.
Roller shades wwill give you bot light and privacy when needed.
White and blue ribbon vertical shades perfectly match the room decor.
Simple, wispy, white window treatments hang on the French doors.
Bamboo shaddes will also add a texture.
Vintage grain sack fabric Roman shades.
Patterned curtains and bamboo shades for style and privacy.
Bamboo shades added for a texture and curtains for privacy.
Roman Shades and Cellular Shades
After tripping over curtains one too many times, I gave Roman shades a shot — and honestly, should’ve done it sooner. They look polished, don’t bunch at the bottom, and the cordless ones are super easy to use (plus safer with kids or pets around). I went with a light linen fabric that filters light but still gives privacy, and they mount cleanly above the glass without getting in the way.
A stylish mix of patterned roman shades and tailored curtains adds depth and polish to these bright double doors. (@bodhitreewall).
Soft roman shades in a ripple design provide privacy and texture while letting natural light warm the entryway. (@nightanddaydecor).
Frosted Glass and Window Film Solutions
I didn’t end up using frosted film on our French doors, but I seriously considered it — especially when I was tired of fabric and wanted something low-maintenance. What I liked was the idea of getting full privacy without blocking light. Plus, you can still make it look decorative with patterns or etched designs, which is way more stylish than I expected.
I looked into peel-and-stick options since we were renting at the time, and a lot of them are removable and don’t leave residue. One brand even had this pretty geometric design that looked like actual etched glass. If I had gone that route, I would’ve made sure to test a small piece first to check how much light it blocked — some of them looked more opaque than I wanted.
If you want a super clean, modern look and zero hassle, this is probably the easiest French door window covering out there. Just no fabric, no cords, no dusting.
Modern barn-style sliding doors in black metal and frosted glass create a bold contrast with deep teal walls and graphic flooring. (@barndoorz).
Colourful stained-glass French doors turn this kitchen entrance into a cheerful, artful focal point. (@bohemiandecor).
A frosted sliding door with crisp white framing brings function and light to this stone-accented kitchen nook. (@valusso_doors).
Roller and Solar Shades for a Modern Look
I didn’t choose roller shades in the end, but they were really tempting — especially the sleek, minimalist ones that practically disappear when rolled up. If you’re going for a clean modern look, these are hard to beat. I loved that they come in different opacities, from sheer to full blackout, so you can fine-tune the amount of light and privacy you want.
Solar shades were another cool option I explored. They block UV rays but still let you see outside, which is perfect if your French doors lead to a patio or backyard. One thing I noticed, though — some darker solar fabrics make the room feel dimmer, so it’s worth grabbing samples first. And if you go this route, cordless versions or chain mechanisms with tension are best so you’re not dealing with tangled cords.
If I ever redo a space with a more contemporary vibe, these will probably be my go-to.
A classic plaid armchair and soft solar shades create a warm, layered country cottage vibe in this inviting living space. (@beccainteriors).
Traditional charm meets elegance with patterned rolling shades, vintage green paneling, and floral wallpaper. (@winstonscollection).
Clean-lined roller shades add subtle privacy while still letting sunshine stream through these classic French doors. (@3dayblinds).