to me curtains are decorative window treatments, while shades are window coverings. u don't need both, but i think it's ok to have both.

Of course! In fact, that's a rather common practice.

both is fine...however, a roman shade can be a bit much with curtains and comes off being fussy or overdone.

I had the exact same problem in our bedroom when I installed some bright green roman shades from West Elm.
I bought some simple dark brown fabric shades that drape all the way down to the floor. It looks fabulous and passes the night-time see-through test.
Now my partner and I can go about our business and feel a little less like exhibitionists. Maybe our neighbor is sad about that...

yes.

love this apartment. great job!!

Absolutely! When we moved into our parlor floor apartment in Brooklyn I initially put up just curtains, but felt they didn't give enough privacy so I hung up some thin, white cotton roman shades that are too short for the windows. I hung them on thing chain so that there's space for sunlight to come in from the top.

I love the effect, it's bright and airy and sophisticated, but still gives privacy, and everyone that sees it comments on how much they like it too. (and did I mention I made the curtains myself?)
So go on! Have it both ways!

Not only "yes" but "preferred."

But depend on your shades to do the bulk of the job of light control, so in your instance, line the shades.

Of course! Do both - I love that look.

I used to have bamboo shades in my old apartment and didn't realize that while they are opaque from the inside, they are see through from the outside! I'm sure much of Santa Monica got a show until I figured that out and added drapes too.

Yes, but I think I prefer roller shades to roman.

I have both in my house. I like curtains to soften the edges of the windows and blinds for keeping out most of the light. The combination works really well in my bedroom. I like a dark room for sleeping and either one on their own isn't enough.

Thanks for everyone's advice! I think I'll go with some nice curtains. Besides, anything will be a huge improvement over the hideous vertical blinds that used to be there.

My yoga studio has bamboo blinds with no other window covering in the window in the bathroom, right next to the toilet, overlooking a busy street. It might be a real treat for . . . . some neighbor who likes to watch people pee. :(

Once upon a time, the "correct" way to cover a window was blinds sheers curtains a valance. So you should do whatever works for light and heat control, BUT make it look intentional -- that is, either the blinds disappear when the curtains are open or they somehow "go" with the curtains (either match or provide meaningful contrast).

blinds PLUS sheers PLUS curtains PLUS a valance

plus signs, they no workee