Last fall I was invited to teach a class on bookshelf styling at my local West Elm.  As nervous as I was to take my dog and pony show on the road 😉  it was an absolute blast!  In this decorating class I shared my super simple 5 step process to styling bookshelves.
Many of you that aren’t Charleston, SC locals reached out to ask if I would be sharing what I taught in that class here on the blog. Â But I just knew that this particular content would be better shared via video. Â It’s just easier to hear and see what I’m talking about rather than reading. Â Admittedly, it’s taken me a while to get my act together, but today I’m excited to share that I’ve finally condensed the class into a short, but easy to follow video! So without further ado……
A Few Styling Tips to Keep in Mind
1. One of the biggest misses made when people are styling shelves in their homes is having too many “too small” items. Â The best thing to do with all those smaller pieces is to corral them with baskets or trays. Â That will give them more visual weight and keep your shelves from looking cluttered. Â It’s also a good idea to think big when you’re shopping for accessories. Â Large pieces ground the overall look really well.
2. Leaning is good! Layering art in the back or in the front of a stack of books adds interest and personality.
 (art by Melvin G.)
3. Visual triangles keep the eye moving and help to create a cohesive look.
4. Plant life is always a big YES! Â Whether real or faux, greenery is a bookshelf’s best friend.
5. Last but not least, bookshelf styling is supposed to be FUN! Â So don’t overthink your decorating too much. Â Just go with what looks good to YOU, and be sure to enjoy the creative process!
Let me know in the comments section if you have any questions! Â
 
Love all the tips! I have the same bookcases but a window in the center of mine giving me more narrow shelves on the L and R side of the window —on both sides (more like cubbies…. ) so like only 1 thing fits in each….. would you follow the same rule of thumb?