Shelf Styling Tips: The Art of Shelf Decor - Suede & Shade
The Art of Shelf Decor
Hey Suede & Shade friends! Are you ready to transform your shelves from simple and dull to stunning and interesting? If so, you are in the right spot! It’s time to take a tiny break from the hustle of mom life and talk about something that can bring a little joy and personality to our homes: shelf decorating! Here at Suede and Shade, we believe that our shelves should be as fun and unique as our little ones (but with fewer tantrums, hopefully). Let's dive into some savvy styling tips that are as practical as they are stylish.
Start From Scratch: The Beauty of a Blank Canvas
Before you begin, clear everything off your shelves and give them a good clean. This isn't just about cleaning; it's about seeing your space with fresh eyes. Think about the flow of the room and the vibe you want to create. A blank slate lets you visualize without distraction.
Shop Your Home: Look for Hidden Treasures
This is Sara’s favourite part - take a stroll through your home and gather items that might fit your new vision. You may forget what you already own and it is amazing what a new location can do for an old item. Look for pieces that have been overshadowed in their current spots or ones that could take on a new life on your shelf. This approach not only saves money but also gives a fresh look to your cherished items.
Book Styling: The Strategic Stack
Books are versatile - stand them upright for height or stack them horizontally for a base. If you use them as a base we usually recommend placing an item on top. Two things are important when stacking books. You want to ensure the colours go together and the sizes are complimentary. We always place the largest book at the bottom and stack them upward. Looking at the colours of the book spines and how they complement your overall palette is key. A tip from Stephanie is always look at what colour the shelf is, and then pick a contrasting colour for the bottom. For example, you do not want a white shelf to have a white book on the bottom. This can make the stack get lost and blend too much. If you have a white shelf, consider a black or brown book as your base. Remember, books can be both functional and decorative!
Color Palette: Cohesion is Key
Limiting your palette to three colors brings harmony and sophistication. This doesn't mean it has to be boring; play with shades and tones within your chosen colors. This approach creates a cohesive look while allowing for creativity. Moreover, a well-chosen color palette can enhance the mood of a space, evoke emotions, and reflect your personal style. Consider the psychological impact of each color; for example, blues can be calming, while yellows might energize the room.
Add Greenery: Bring the Shelf to Life
Adding greenery to your shelving unit brings it all to life. If you aren’t a plant mama do not worry, there are tons of faux options that look very realistic. You can do smaller plants or place some stems into a larger vase, there really is a lot of options. What’s our go-to? That’s easy, its green eucalyptus! Plants, whether real or faux, can make a space feel more inviting and serene. They can also complement and contrast with your colour scheme, adding a new dimension to your shelf styling.
Varying Heights: Create a Visual Story
Items of different heights draw the eye up and down, creating interest and balance. Try to create groupings of items that balance each other out. This approach not only adds visual interest but also prevents the shelving from looking cluttered. Play with the placement until you find a rhythm that feels right, and remember, sometimes asymmetry can be more visually engaging than perfect balance.
Mix and Match: Try Unexpected Things
Combine various décor elements – a vase here, a frame there, maybe a quirky sculpture for good measure. The key is to find a balance. Think about how different textures and materials interact - how the smoothness of ceramics pairs with the rough texture of a woven basket, for instance. This mixing and matching of elements can also reflect your personality and tell a story about your tastes and experiences. It's an opportunity to showcase your unique style and create a space that's truly your own.
Vintage Photos: A Blast From the Past
Vintage photos add a personal and nostalgic touch. Arrange them in unique frames or lean them against the back of the shelf for a layered look. These photos can serve as conversation starters and can add a sentimental value if you use one of your families old photos, making it feel more homey and lived-in. If you don’t have any vintage photos laying around, there are tons you can get framed online.
Texture Talk: Layering for Depth
Incorporating different textures is like creating a rich tapestry of visual interest. Place a soft, potted moss plant next to a hard, metallic sculpture. Use textured fabrics or baskets to soften the overall look. This variety encourages the eye to roam and explore.
Decorating 101: The Finishing Touches
Use anchor pieces as focal points. These are usually larger or more eye-catching items. Group items in odd numbers for a natural, less structured look. Balance is key – spread out items of different shapes and sizes for a dynamic yet harmonious look.
Shop Shelving Decor
Now we wont leave you empty handed! Here is a list of our most adored home decor to decorate your shelves, including some of our favourite home decor books.
Once you are done, don’t forget to step back and edit! Key tip, less is more and you can always rearrange the items after a few days if you feel something isn’t sitting right. Remember, with a little creativity and some DIY magic, you too can turn a dull space into a stunning backdrop.
Love, Sara & Steph
No Boring Shelves Here
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