I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I ordered these curtains, but I LOVE them!!  My window faces the east so as the sun rises the room gets lighter and the print on the curtains is lighter, as night falls, the color of the curtains darkens as well.  It is really peaceful to me.  They are NOT room darkening curtains though.  They do allow a fair amount of light through in the mornings when fully closed.  I love the atmosphere it provides though.  For someone who lives in the midwest and loves the palm trees and beach as well, these were the perfect choice!!