Why not get a sheer curtain (not lace).

http://www.jcpenney.com/shops/find-more/windows/marthawindow%25e2%2584%25a2-voile-rod-pocket-sheer-panel/prod.jump?ppId=pp5002410299&

OP here. Thanks for the advice. I don't like the lace curtains, but I do like the idea of a curtain that can be pulled back at will. Is there any sheer fabric that is slightly more stylish than a lace curtain?

Maybe consider a framed piece of stained glass. There are some beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright designs at amazon. Just make sure to mount it top and bottom and maybe sides ? I think that's a much more modern look than lace curtains.

You don't have to use the contact paper stuff there is also a spray.

See what Next Day Blinds or similar can do for you--shutters, roman shades.

There is a contact paper/frosted glass house on our street (and an expensive house!!) -- in general, that look doesn't do anything positive to your curbside appeal IMO.

Security film. It can be made in mirror-style (so peopel can't see in), and it's bullet-proof. Bekaert is one company making it. We have it not for bullets so much as to prevent smashing the window and reachign in to open the door.

On the cheap - con-tact makes a roll of frosted paper that you can cut and stick to the window. I've done it for privacy and it doesn't look terrible. It's sold at Home Depot, Ace, True Value, online etc.
http://www.amazon.com/Con-Tact-Adhesive-Covering-Frosty-Diamond/dp/B0080K7XCU

More pricey - my parents have wood shutters over the windows. They look really nice and a lot of light leaks through. Perhaps not as much as the frosted con-tact paper, but it works.

^^ gotta say this takes the cake!

There is film they sell at Home Depot that makes the window looks frosted.

Our front door has a window from the waist up. We have a lace curtain there for privacy, but I'm not a huge fan of the lace-curtain look -- it feels a little outdated. Any recommendations for other ways to maintain sunlight in, while also allowing for privacy?