The '80s Style Blinds For Sliding Glass Doors Get A Modern Comeback

Sliding glass doors inherently have chic, modern elements. After all, glass is a major part of modern interior design, making spaces look open and bright. Despite this, many people associate them with the '80s, in part because of the yellowing-white vinyl blinds that often came with them. 

Vertical blinds were popular in the '80s for their simplicity and versatility. You could slide them side to side to make the door accessible or provide complete privacy, and twist the individual slats to control the amount of light entering the room. They are easily found for purchase today and typically affordable, plus they are considered easy to maintain. Compared to other covering options, vertical blinds are functional and fuss-free. 

However, there are some downsides as well. The loose slat design of vertical blinds means that drafts can stir the blinds around, causing noise. Slats will also occasionally fall off, especially with heavy use or pulling. Plus, there's that boring, plain white look.

That doesn't mean you need to ditch blinds altogether to give sliding glass doors a modern upgrade, though. Today, new colors and finishes are bringing a fresh look for the classic window treatment. Variations with faux wood and smart features can give a modern feel without sacrificing the budget-friendliness and practicality of the '80s trend.

In the 1980s, vertical blinds were typically vinyl or, if slightly older, aluminum. Nowadays, there are more material options, impacting both the aesthetics and functionality. Vinyl and PVC remain great options in humid climates, but in drier areas, fabric can be a lovely alternative. Along with the textured look, fabric is quieter to move around. Either way, there is a wide variety of colors and finishes these days. Neutrals and earth tones are popular, because they translate well on fabrics, faux woods, and smooth vinyl alike.

One of the more major innovations in vertical blinds is the incorporation of smart technology. Motorized shades improve accessibility for seamless light management, and the ability to connect them to a smart home system makes operating them even easier. Rather than pulling at cords when you want to access the door, you can simply press a button for the blinds to slide smoothly across the tracks or even have the movement automated by time of day.

Vertical blinds can have a more modern feel as a result of styling, as well. Small adjustments like choosing longer blinds and placing them higher above the doorway, adding lights, or layering vertical blinds with sheer curtains can make the look more current. This is especially true when combined with the new materials and designs. So, before you decide to consider alternative window coverings for added privacy with sliding glass doors, check out vertical blinds: They've come a long way since the 1980s.