It depends on what kind of lining you use when you make them. When they are closed (i.e., down), it looks like plain fabric from outside; when opened, they do look like folds of fabric, and I think that looks fine. They look a bit like roller blinds when they are down - very plain. The look can vary depending on whether they are mounted inside the window frame or outside.

Make sure you pay for good backing so they look good from the outside.

I have a privacy liner behind my natural Roman shade and that allows for a smooth look from the outside.

I appreciate the prompt replies. The windows are on each side, but as someone comes up the walkway from the driveway, they'll see the window.

I don't need privacy so much, but I do want a nice entrance. I added this vestibule to the house and the floor tile, in a brick herringbone pattern is going down today.

I think plantation shutters would look nice, but the small space needs some softening up. The walls are white, the floor tile is a light gray slate; I have a black bombe chest and a black painted corner chair with a burlap seat and a neutral silk accent pillow; the wall sconces are black; the ceiling is Sherwin-Williams Tidewater, a light aqua. Hard to post photos since the tile guy is laying the floor as I type!

I'm trying to decide between this neutral linen shade Country Curtains linen lined roman shade

or this Bordered Roman Shade with black border

They are not attractive from the outside. You see the strings and the rings attached to the rods to lift the panels. I'd go with the shutters. (I do have inset Roman shades in my MBR and MBA, but nobody sees the backsides. Easy care; just vacuum.)

If you don't need privacy, what about using a natural material such as wood or grass cloth for Roman shades with no backing.