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Writer's pictureBailey Choy

7 Shelf Styling Tips

Open shelves have become a popular trend in interior design, providing a stylish and functional way to showcase your favorite home decor pieces. Whether in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom, open shelves offer a versatile canvas for displaying your personality and adding a touch of charm to any space. In this blog post, we will guide you through the art of styling open shelves, sharing tips and tricks to help you create a visually appealing and curated look that reflects your unique style.

beautiful dark wood open shelving styled with affordable home decor from Amazon, Target and Soha living
Portlock shelf styling

Left column: top shelf - olive leaf arrangement , third shelf- wood garland + faux books , second shelf - decor filler, bottom shelf - white planter

Middle column: top shelf - teak wood bowl , third shelf - 3 set ceramic vase + 3 set wood candle holders , second shelf white knot

Right column: top shelf - large ceramic vase, third shelf - Faux hollow decorative books, second shelf - 3 set wood arch set , bottom shelf- Wood bead garland


1. Start with a Clean Slate: Before you begin styling open shelves, clear them of any clutter or unnecessary items. This blank canvas will allow you to visualize and plan your decor arrangement more effectively.


2. Mix and Match: One key aspect of styling open shelves is achieving a balanced mix of elements. Combine different heights, textures, and shapes to create visual interest. Experiment with a blend of decorative objects, plants, books, and artwork to add depth and variety to your display.

shelf styled with ceramic vase, faux books, candle stick holders from Amazon, Target
Shelf styling ideas

3. Create Vignettes: Group items together to create captivating vignettes on your shelves. Consider placing a stack of books as a base, topped with a decorative object or a small potted plant. Incorporate items of varying heights to add dimension and create a dynamic visual flow.



4. Play with Color: Color coordination can bring a cohesive and harmonious look to your open shelves. Choose a color scheme that complements your room's overall aesthetic. Mix in pops of color through artwork, vases, or decorative accents to add vibrancy and personality to your display.


5. Embrace Negative Space: Don't overcrowd your open shelves; leave some negative space to allow your decor pieces to shine individually. This breathing room creates a more balanced and visually pleasing arrangement.


shelf styled with ceramic vase, 3 set wood arches, faux books, Amazon, Target
Shelf Styling Ideas

6. Balance Symmetry and Asymmetry: Consider both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements to create visual balance on your open shelves. Symmetry can provide a sense of order, while asymmetry adds a touch of creativity and spontaneity. Experiment with both approaches to find the perfect balance for your shelves.


Middle shelf: 3 set wood arch set

Bottom shelf: Wood bead garland


7. Rotate and Refresh: Keep your open shelves dynamic by rotating and refreshing the items on display. This allows you to showcase different pieces and prevent the decor from becoming stagnant. Change up the arrangement periodically to keep things interesting and give your shelves a fresh look.



Styling open shelves with home decor is an opportunity to showcase your personal style and creativity. By following these tips, you can create visually appealing displays that reflect your unique taste and elevate the overall aesthetic of your space. Remember to experiment, have fun, and let your personality shine through in your shelf styling endeavors!

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