Net curtains or something else

[chanie44]

Our house is a small Victorian terrace with a three sided bay window at the front.

I currently have net curtains which were donated by my mum. We do need something over the windows as although our road is fairly quiet we are overlooked (we live in London). I don't want to have blinds because of the safety issues with young children.

Is there an alternative to nets?
If not, what nets would you recommend? I would like some that don't scream 'old woman'
How wide should I get them eg 1.5 or 2 x the length of the window

I would be greatful for any suggestions or ideas

I'd go for blinds with safety cords TBH. Nets are horrible.

Window wallpaper - you can buy it from here

Amazing stuff

I have a screen in my bay window - gives us privacy but you still get quite a bit of light in.

How about plain cotton white/cream voile panels over the bottom half of the windows only?
A bit like this
www.blindsandcurtains.biz/alisonwhite/aw_sash_blinds.php

(not keen on the circles but you get the idea)

In fact like the first pic here
www.blindsandcurtains.biz/sash/sash.html

We've got three sheer roller blinds from John Lewis, they let lots of light through and look crisp from the outside.

Thanks for all of your ideas. Not sure what I will go for, but at least we have some options.

I've got gauzy plain white cotton voile curtains similar to these in my bedroom, I love them, they look great, let in all the light and give privacy.

They are hung behind a heavier weight set of curtains that I close at night; the viole ones remain closed all the time.