The best light-blocking window treatments feature opaque fabrics paired with specific edge-sealing tracks. For complete darkness, standard blinds are insufficient; you need either "true blackout" shades with magnetic side channels or a layered approach.
The window treatments that block the most light are custom blackout shades (specifically roller or cellular shades) equipped with side channels. Paired together, these block 100% of incoming light by eliminating the gaps and halo effects where light typically seeps in around the edges.
For total darkness in bedrooms or media rooms, 100% blackout shades (not traditional slatted blinds) are your best option. They eliminate light gaps and are highly effective for day-sleepers or reducing glare.
Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy. Others feature windows framed by exterior shutters, operable versions of which can also be used for light control, ventilation and privacy.
Ditching shades has a lot of upsides regardless of who you are. Uncovered windows bring in natural light, boost well-being, and offer a view of the world outside. The trade-off, of course, is that they also put those inside on display to passersby, and in the summer, they channel heat.
Thankfully, Stewart was quick to ease our curtain concerns. She says, “They're beautiful, I don't have anything against them, I just don't live with them… I like to look outside. Every window [in my home] looks out to something nice, and it's just all open to the view.”
Window blinds must be open during landing (and takeoff) as a critical safety measure. Because the majority of aviation incidents happen during these phases, open blinds allow flight crew and passengers to instantly spot exterior hazards (like fire, smoke, or debris) and let your eyes adjust to the outside lighting to avoid temporary blindness during an evacuation.
Martha Stewart, 83, has nothing to hide. She's always been unabashedly candid about her life and career, including her divorce and her 2005 stint in prison for insider trading. And now, the lifestyle guru is opening up about being diagnosed with the autoimmune disease vitiligo for the very first time.
Martha Stewart's energizing morning routine
While many of her retired peers are leaning into leisurely retirements, Stewart treats her mornings as a launchpad to gain energy for a full workday, despite only getting four hours of sleep a night. “I read the entire New York Times,” she said. “I do all the puzzles.
By applying Contra Vision micro-perforated window film to your window, you will still be able to see out, and the white face film obscures vision into the building.
What are Blackout Blinds? Blackout blinds are made from a fabric that helps you keep out external light around the clock.
Trending Window Treatment Ideas for Every Room
Appraisers and inspectors note overall condition and presentation, and buyers may flag issues during final walkthroughs. Replacing broken blinds or updating outdated coverings before listing can help reduce small objections that sometimes turn into negotiation points.
The best blackout blinds are sealed-track systems, which eliminate light leaks around the edges. For standard windows, blackout cellular or roller shades work best. Leading options include the UBlockout Sealed-Track System for total darkness, and the SelectBlinds Premier Blackout Cellular Shades for custom fitting and thermal insulation.
Luxury Blinds for Windows
To get both light and privacy, you need window treatments that diffuse natural sunlight while obscuring the view from the outside. The most effective options are zebra shades (dual layers that alternate sheer and solid fabric), top-down bottom-up cellular shades, and slatted blinds (like wood or faux wood).
Martha Stewart has her bed sheets changed and washed every two to three days. While she has housekeepers who handle the actual washing and making of the bed, she considers getting into a fresh bed the "height of luxury" and believes that swapping them out every five days should be the bare minimum.
Several famous figures were known to function on very little sleep. They typically fall into two categories: natural "short sleepers" with a genetic trait, or driven polymaths who considered sleep a waste of time.
Martha Stewart is famously a massive fragrance enthusiast with a collection of over 70 perfumes. However, she has consistently sworn by one specific signature scent for decades, while also recently endorsing a popular gourmand fragrance.
Martha Stewart says she's never had plastic surgery… with one exception: a decade ago her French bulldog accidentally split her lip and a plastic surgeon did a repair with stitches. She doesn't count that as “plastic surgery,” because it was trauma repair, not cosmetic.
Martha Stewart's boyfriend of 15 years was billionaire software developer and Microsoft executive Charles Simonyi.
Oprah Winfrey is significantly richer than Martha Stewart. Oprah’s net worth is estimated at roughly $4 billion, largely built through her highly successful talk show, media network, and various investments. In comparison, Martha Stewart has an estimated net worth of around $400 million to $550 million.
People avoid Seat 11A on many aircraft (particularly Boeing 737s) because it is a "windowless window seat". Due to the placement of air-conditioning ducts and structural reinforcements over the wing, you will often find yourself staring at a solid wall instead of having a view.
1. Coffee ☕ (Or Any Caffeinated Drink)
Flight attendants sit on their hands during takeoff and landing as a deliberate safety measure. This posture—part of a standard brace position—locks their arms and hands in place. It prevents their limbs from flailing and minimizes the risk of injury from sudden impacts or turbulence.