What is a "balloon shade"?

A balloon shade is a type of window treatment that is made of fabric and is designed to create a puffy, gathered effect when raised. The shade is typically mounted on a rod or other types of hardware and is raised using a cord or pulley system. When raised, the shade gathers in a series of puffy sections, creating a balloon-like effect that adds texture and dimension to the window treatment. Balloon shades are often made of lightweight and semi-transparent materials such as cotton or linen and come in a variety of styles and patterns, from simple and understated to more ornate and decorative.