Bookshelf Styling Tips

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Bookshelves can be an incredibly useful and attractive decor option. But some people may feel that they tend to take up a lot of space and visual attention.

However, the perfect bookshelf can also act as a storage area and a focal point in any space! Plus, they’re a great way to add personality and stylish touch to your home.

I know styling bookshelves can seem intimidating to get them styled just right without looking overly cluttered. Also, with so many decor options out there, it can be a challenge to choose the right pieces!

So in today’s post, I’m sharing a roundup of decor options that you can use to style your bookshelves without losing their functionality as well as some bookshelf styling tips!

Bookshelf Styling Tips

Don’t Add Too Much

You may have a lot of decorations and trinkets to display, but it doesn’t mean you should. Oftentimes when you add too many little things, it will end up looking like clutter.

Try to find a few items that you really love and display those on your bookshelf, while also leaving some space between items. This will make the display look tidy and intentional!

Ground the Bookcase

If you’re using larger items or heavy objects as part of your display, then place them on the bottom shelf of your bookcase. This will ground the bookshelf and it is also the safest spot for those heavier objects.

Decor Should Vary in Heights and Depths

Definitely, an important rule when talking about bookshelf styling tips! Varying the height and depths of decor will draw the eye and create a collected look.

Be sure to stack books vertically and horizontally. Or if you’ve placed decor at the back of the shelf like a piece of art, then also add some smaller decor items towards the front!

Add Some Personal Touches

Don’t be afraid to add personal touches to your bookshelves as well. These little touches will make your bookshelves feel collected and create a space that’s special to you.

It could be a simple photograph of your family, or a souvenir from a favorite road trip. Maybe even a trinket that’s been passed down from a relative, anything that makes you smile!

Display Varying Materials

No matter what room your bookshelf is in, you should always try to display decor made of varying materials to create interest! Softer materials like wood are a perfect natural option for the shelves but also try to mix in some metal or natural options as well.

If you’re looking for office shelf decor ideas try adding storage boxes that you can hides items in. Then add in those little metal or fabric trinkets to create some contrast.

Amazon Decor For Your Bookshelf Styling

Bookends

What is a bookshelf without some beautiful bookends? There are so many amazing bookend options out there, you’ll definitely be able to find some that fit your personal style.

I particularly love this set of marble bookends from Amazon. The marble fits my style perfectly and I love that the neutral color isn’t too overbearing.

Vases

Vases are one of my favorite bookshelf styling tips because they’re beautiful on their own or you can add in some of your favorite faux stems! Plus you can choose to display vases of varying textures, colors, shapes, and sizes to add some dimension.

Wooden vases are a great way to add a natural touch to your display, especially if that’s the color scheme you’ve chosen. Or try a bolder option like this stunning set of blue stoneware vases.

Planters

Planters have the same positive attributes that vases do, but they can also be used as more of a focal point on your bookshelf. Plus, you can even add a cute little plant or faux plant for a fresh touch.

This terracotta planter has a beautiful whitewash finish that would great on a bookshelf. Or this small orange terracotta planter is another great option and it’s a great price too!

Stacking Boxes

Boxes are a great way to store extra bits of clutter in a beautiful, decorative way. Or you can use them to store other bookshelf decorative items that you want to swap out now and then.

I always use boxes when styling my bookshelves and this beautiful rattan set from Amazon is one of my favorites. They compliment the aesthetic of my home perfectly and they’re functional too!

These whitewashed mango wood boxes are another great option from Amazon. They have pretty carved designs on their lids which would look beautiful when displayed on a bookshelf as well!

Bowls and Trays

Next on our list of bookshelf styling tips are bowls and trays! These are other examples of decor that are both beautiful and functional.

You can play around with various colors, shapes, and textures to create the perfect look. I’m always partial to neutral decor, so this mango wooden bowl is right up my alley.

Another great option is this beautiful neutral wooden tray from Amazon. It’s the perfect size for a bookshelf and you can also use it to display smaller pieces of decor as well.

Books

Kind of an obvious option, but don’t underestimate the beauty of displaying books on your bookshelf! You can choose books of every shape and size and they’ll be a perfect addition to your display.

Coffee table books are a great option for the lower shelves or you can always stack smaller decor items on top of them. Also don’t forget to add a few of your favorites for a personal touch.

Decorative Chain Links

These lovely little decorative links are one of my favorite Amazon home decor finds. They’re simple but they add a beautiful touch to the bookshelf display.

These whitewash mango wood links are one of my favorite options from Amazon and they look so cute stacked on top of some books. Or for a slightly elevated look, try out this stunning marble option!