Before the new, more efficient (and expensive), argon filled windows showed up here in the mid-90's, most windows were double pane or double windows (like two windows in one window hole: one closer to the outside, one closer to the inside). The double windows opened independently (of course you had to open the inner window to work the outer one), the double pane opened as a single unit, but this unit could be opened to allow cleaning between panes. Some people would put styrofoam (or even straw, earlier) on certain less needed windows for extra isolation. Taping up the whole window opening to keep out drafts was also common.
Today I sometimes see windows in apartment highrises covered in kitchen grade aluminum foil to keep the sun out (11th floor = no shade + heat rising from the lower floors).
An expensive option is an external rolled curtain. It is made of horizontal aluminum ribs, rolled at the top when raised. At first they were used on windows as protection from break-ins, but soon the ribs were filled with a few mm of polyurethane for thermal insulation. This keeps the heat in during winter (but doesn't allow sunlight through), while in the summer keeps the sun and heat out. They can be just slightly raised to allow a draft. Saving to get some installed...
Um, looks like this thread got hijacked. Sorry :/
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