8 Best Blackout Top-down Shades Influencers Love
Blending Styles: The Secret to a Cohesive Home
If you’re anything like me, you want your home to look beautiful and feel inviting—but you also need it to be practical. That’s where blending styles comes in. I love mixing modern touches with classic comfort, and sometimes the smallest details, like window treatments, make the biggest impact. Blackout top-down shades are a design lifesaver, especially when you crave both privacy and light control without sacrificing style.
Recently, I’ve noticed some of my favorite YouTube home decor creators—like The DIY Mommy, House of Valentina, and Alexandra Gater—showing off their go-to blackout top-down shades. Let’s just say: I took notes. If you’re on a mission to make your spaces both stylish and functional, you’ll want to check out these eight influencer-approved blackout top-down shades.
Why Top-Down Blackout Shades?
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why top-down blackout shades are so popular among designers and influencers. I used to think blackout shades were just for bedrooms or nurseries, but after seeing them in action, I realized they’re so much more versatile.
Top-down shades let you lower the shade from the top AND raise it from the bottom, so you can let in daylight while still keeping your privacy. Add true blackout fabric and you’ve got a recipe for better sleep, movie nights, and even those midday naps we all pretend we don’t take.
What To Look For In Blackout Top-down Shades
Let’s be real—shopping for window treatments can feel overwhelming. Here’s what I always keep in mind (and what the pros recommend):
- Light Control: Does it actually block out light? Some “blackout” shades aren’t truly blackout.
- Ease of Use: Cordless is safer (especially with kids or pets) and looks sleek.
- Material & Texture: Soft woven fabrics? Sleek polyester? Think about what matches your vibe.
- Color Options: Neutrals are timeless, but maybe you want a bold pop.
- Installation: Are you a DIYer or do you want simple install?
- Price vs. Value: You don’t have to splurge for quality—but sometimes it’s worth it.
- Cleaning: Life gets messy. Can you spot-clean or toss the shade in the wash?
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are the eight best blackout top-down shades that influencers swear by, with everything you need to know about each pick.
1. Lutron Serena Smart Shades
Featured by: House of Valentina
If smart home tech excites you as much as it does me, Lutron Serena Smart Shades will feel like a dream come true. These shades are fully customizable and can be controlled via remote, app, or even voice (Alexa/Google Home compatible).
Product Details:
- Material: Thick, premium polyester fabric with a subtle matte finish
- Colors: 100+ options (I love “White Linen” and “Graphite”)
- Sizes: Custom cut to fit any window
- Operation: Cordless motorized (battery or hardwired)
- Blackout Liner: Yes, full blackout
Why Influencers Love It: Valentina raves about how seamlessly these shades blend into her modern Scandinavian-inspired spaces. And honestly? The automation is a total game-changer—imagine lowering your shades for movie night without leaving the couch.
Personal Testimonial: I installed these in our bedroom last year and it felt like living in a luxury hotel. They’re whisper-quiet and the blackout is legit. Plus, no cords means they’re totally kid- and pet-safe.
Best For: Design lovers who want seamless tech and high-end aesthetics—without sacrificing sleep.
2. Levolor Cellular Shades Room Darkening
Featured by: The DIY Mommy
Levolor is a trusted name for a reason—they make shades that last. Their room-darkening cellular shades come in a top-down/bottom-up style that’s beloved by busy moms and anyone who appreciates simplicity.
Product Details:
- Material: Energy-efficient honeycomb fabric
- Colors: Over 20 tones (soft whites, greys, taupes)
- Sizes: Custom widths up to 144”
- Operation: Cordless lift
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: Christina from The DIY Mommy regularly uses Levolor for her own home makeovers. She highlights how the cellular construction traps air to keep rooms cooler in summer—huge plus for energy bills!
Personal Testimonial: I put these in my daughter’s room and noticed an immediate difference in both noise reduction and how dark it got at bedtime. Installation was straightforward (took me under an hour), which is always a win.
Best For: Families who value energy efficiency, easy installation, and safe operation.
3. Bali Blackout Cellular Shades
Featured by: Alexandra Gater
Bali’s blackout cellulars are totally customizable and fit every style—from boho to minimalism. Alexandra Gater swears by their crisp pleats and how they soften harsh sunlight without feeling heavy.
Product Details:
- Material: Woven polyester blackout fabric
- Colors: 30+ from “Coconut” to “Shadow”
- Sizes: Custom fit
- Operation: Cordless top-down/bottom-up
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: Alexandra loves using Bali for rental-friendly makeovers since they offer inside mount options that won’t damage trim. The texture has a luxe look that instantly upgrades any space.
Personal Testimonial: I used Bali shades in my office makeover—choosing “Sea Salt”—and the difference was night and day (literally). No more screen glare at 2pm!
Best For: Renters or anyone wanting easy-install custom blackout that still looks high-end.
4. Chicology Top Down Bottom Up Cordless Cellular Shade
Featured by: XO MaCenna
If you want value without sacrificing looks, Chicology is for you. XO MaCenna showed these off in her recent studio apartment tour and I was hooked by how soft they look—and how affordable they are.
Product Details:
- Material: Polyester cellular fabric (room darkening)
- Colors: 10+ options including “Morning Mist” and “Espresso”
- Sizes: Multiple widths (cut-to-size at Home Depot!)
- Operation: Cordless top-down/bottom-up
- Blackout Liner: Room darkening (not total blackout)
Why Influencers Love It: MaCenna points out that these are perfect for renters or those hesitant to commit to pricier custom shades. They’re super lightweight yet still offer serious light control.
Personal Testimonial: I installed these in my guest room to test them out. Guests rave about how cozy the room feels—and I love how easy they are to adjust with just one hand.
Best For: Budget-conscious decorators who want reliable style and function.
5. SelectBlinds.com Classic Blackout Cordless Top Down Bottom Up Shades
Featured by: Lone Fox
SelectBlinds is an online darling because they deliver custom quality without a crazy price tag. Drew from Lone Fox did an amazing before-and-after using these shades in his living room makeover—you could feel the coziness through the screen!
Product Details:
- Material: Polyester blackout with crisp pleats
- Colors: Over 25 choices (“Ivory Lace” is my favorite)
- Sizes: Fully customizable
- Operation: Cordless TDBU
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: Drew highlights how easy their online ordering process is (seriously—it’s foolproof) and the fact that samples ship quickly so you can see colors IRL before buying.
Personal Testimonial: I tested samples against my wall color before choosing “Warm Gray.” The blackout works wonders for movie nights, and installation was a breeze with clear instructions.
Best For: Online shoppers who want custom sizing without showroom markups.
6. Blinds.com Premium Blackout Cellular Shades
Featured by: DIY With KB
Blinds.com shades win points for durability and smooth operation—KB uses them in her home office to cut glare during video calls (relatable!). They’re also known for their wide range of colors and textures.
Product Details:
- Material: Double-cell polyester fabric (full blackout)
- Colors: 30+ hues (“Dune” and “Fog” are standouts)
- Sizes: Made to measure
- Operation: Cordless TDBU
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: KB praises their modern look and how well they block out heat as well as light—a must if your windows face the sun all day.
Personal Testimonial: I tried these in our kitchen nook; “Misty Gray” gave such a calm vibe. Wipes clean with a damp cloth—so important when sticky little hands are around!
Best For: High-traffic areas where durability matters as much as design.
7. Honeycomb Shades by Home Decorators Collection (The Home Depot)
Featured by: The Sorry Girls
These Home Decorators Collection honeycomb shades are reliably recommended across DIY channels for their balance of affordability and performance. The Sorry Girls used them in a bedroom refresh to stunning effect.
Product Details:
- Material: Energy-saving honeycomb polyester
- Colors: 10+ neutrals (“Snow Drift” is so soft)
- Sizes: In stock and custom widths
- Operation: Cordless TDBU
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: The Sorry Girls love that these are easy to install solo—no power tools needed! Plus, the blackout is strong enough for true sleep sanctuary vibes.
Personal Testimonial: I picked these to match our linen bedding—the texture is subtly woven, not shiny or cheap-looking. They’ve held up beautifully through two seasons already.
Best For: Anyone who wants an easy upgrade that feels custom but doesn’t break the bank.
8. Smith & Noble Blackout Cellular Shades
Featured by: Mr. Kate
If luxury finishes matter to you (hello, velvet sofas), Smith & Noble delivers designer quality that interior stylists adore. Mr. Kate has used their blackout cellulars for several big makeover projects—always with jaw-dropping results.
Product Details:
- Material: Premium woven polyester (double-cell for insulation)
- Colors: 40+ designer shades (“Stone” and “Midnight” are stunning)
- Sizes: Fully custom sizing
- Operation: Cordless TDBU
- Blackout Liner: Yes
Why Influencers Love It: Kate points out how their attention to detail elevates any space—think color-matched hardware, flawless pleats, and fabrics that feel expensive to the touch.
Personal Testimonial: I splurged on Smith & Noble for our main living room window (“Pearl” color) and have zero regrets—the room feels tailored and serene, like a professional styled it just for us.
Best For: Those who want every detail just right—from texture to tone—and don’t mind paying a bit more for lasting luxury.
How I Chose These Top Picks
When browsing YouTube home tours or DIY tutorials, I look for products that real people use every day—not just what looks good on camera. My criteria:
- Real-world reviews from top creators
- Consistently high ratings from everyday buyers
- Materials that feel good and last
- Easy-to-maintain designs
- Options for different budgets
I also order free swatches whenever possible so I can really see how colors work with my paint, flooring, or favorite throw pillows.
Top Tips for Shopping Blackout Top-down Shades
1. Measure Twice (or Three Times!)
Accurate measurements are everything! Always measure your windows at least twice—width at top, middle, bottom; height at left, center, right.
2. Sample Fabrics In Your Space
Shades look different in artificial vs natural light. Hold swatches against your window at different times of day for best results.
3. Consider Your Window Trim
If you love dramatic trim or vintage details, choose inside mount shades for a clean look—or outside mount if you want total darkness.
4. Think About Operation
Cordless is my go-to for child safety and clean lines. Motorized options are worth it if you have hard-to-reach windows or just love gadgets!
5. Match Your Style
Neutrals blend seamlessly but don’t be afraid of color if you crave personality! I once chose “Slate Blue” for our guest suite—it made the whole space pop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install these shades myself?
Absolutely! Most brands offer easy step-by-step instructions (some even provide video guides). If you’re nervous, start with one window—you’ll get the hang of it quickly!
Q: Do blackout shades really block all light?
True blackout fabrics block nearly all outside light when measured correctly—but tiny gaps around edges can let some light seep through if installed inside mount. For total darkness, consider outside mount or pair with blackout curtains.
Q: Are cordless shades safe for kids and pets?
Yes! Cordless operation eliminates dangling cords—a major safety win if you have little ones or curious kitties running around.
Q: Can I clean these shades?
Most can be spot cleaned with mild soap and water; double-check care instructions before washing or using strong cleaners.
Q: Will they help with energy bills?
Definitely. Cellular/honeycomb construction traps air, helping keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter—which can mean real savings over time.
Final Thoughts
Blending style with practicality isn’t just possible—it’s easy when you choose the right pieces for your home. Blackout top-down shades are one of those rare finds that truly tick every box: they look gorgeous, function beautifully, and make your life easier day after day.
Whether you want tech-savvy smart controls, cozy textures, or something renter-friendly (that doesn’t scream “DIY”), there’s an option here that will fit your needs—and wow your guests.
So go ahead! Treat your windows—and yourself—to a little upgrade inspired by the pros. Your home will thank you every morning…and every night when those blackout shades work their magic!