Well, they ARE polyester...the finish is just fine, but not up close. It has the appearance of silk, and will pick easily if anything rough rubs against it. The background is not beige, rather off white. Some of the colors within the pattern are very pretty, a few are slightly "off," as in the pink used, it's a candy-like pink. I used these in a kitchen with tall, nearly floor to ceiling windows, painted light sage green with white trim. They are especially great for spring/summer months; I plan to change them out for fall and winter. I just purchased another pair for a fully gathered look.