Hey there! So, you’ve got a bookshelf that’s just… sitting there, looking kinda sad and neglected. I get it. I’ve been there too—staring at my bookshelf thinking, “Why does this look like it belongs in a dorm room instead of a chic living room?” But here’s the good news: you can make any bookshelf look like it cost a fortune without spending a fortune. Seriously. Today, I’m sharing my favorite tricks on how to style a bookshelf so it looks expensive, all while keeping things approachable, fun, and a little bit sassy.

1. Start With a Clean Slate

Before you get fancy, let’s get real: decluttering is non-negotiable.

Clear Everything Off

Take all the books, trinkets, and random stuff off the shelves. Yes, EVERYTHING. Trust me, staring at a messy shelf only makes it harder to style it like a pro.

Edit Ruthlessly

Ask yourself: “Do I actually like this item, or am I just holding onto it because guilt?” Keep the pieces that spark joy or add personality, and stash the rest.

Pro tip: I keep a box for “maybe someday” items. If I don’t use them in three months, they go bye-bye. It’s liberating and makes the styling process so much easier.

2. Group Books Strategically

Books are your biggest asset here, so use them wisely.

Color Coding vs. Spine-Out Style

• Color coding: Arranging by color creates a visually cohesive, high-end look. IMO, it’s like your bookshelf just got a designer manicure.
• Spine-out style: Keep the titles visible for a curated, library-meets-luxe vibe.

Layering Books

Stack some books horizontally, others vertically. This adds dimension and interest. FYI, vertical stacks also give you a platform for decorative objects like vases or sculptures.

3. Mix in Decorative Objects

Books alone are a snoozefest. Adding decorative items instantly elevates the look.

• Sculptures or figurines: Choose a few minimalistic or metallic pieces. Gold, bronze, or matte black can make things look pricey.
• Vases or bowls: A simple ceramic vase filled with dried flowers or greenery adds life.
• Candles: Tall, sleek candles can double as decor and ambiance.

Rule of thumb: Stick to 3-5 key items per shelf. Overcrowding screams chaos, not luxury.

4. Use Negative Space Like a Boss

Ever wonder why some shelves just feel expensive? It’s all about negative space.

• Don’t fill every inch. Leaving empty spaces gives the eye room to breathe.
• Think of it like a gallery wall—less can definitely be more.

Example: On a 3-tier shelf, place books on one side and a decorative object on the other, leaving some open space in between. Instant elegance.

5. Incorporate Textures and Materials

Variety in materials makes a bookshelf feel rich and curated.

• Mix wood, metal, glass, and ceramics.
• Layer fabrics like a small folded throw on a horizontal stack of books.
• Use natural elements: marble bookends, stone sculptures, or woven baskets.

Personal anecdote: I swapped cheap plastic bookends for marble ones last year, and suddenly my entire shelf looked like it belonged in a high-end magazine. No joke.

6. Mind the Heights

Styling like a pro means paying attention to verticality and balance.

• Tall items on one side, shorter on the other.
• Stack horizontally to create height where needed.
• Odd numbers often look better—3 vases grouped together usually beats 2 or 4.

FYI: Balance is key. A bookshelf that’s perfectly symmetrical can feel sterile; a little asymmetry adds that designer touch without trying too hard.

7. Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette

Random colors make a shelf feel chaotic. Cohesive palettes scream sophistication.

Tips for Choosing a Palette

• Pick 2-3 main colors and a metallic accent.
• Neutral tones (white, beige, gray) plus one bold color (like emerald or navy) feel high-end.
• Repeat colors in objects, books, and small accessories for consistency.

Quick tip: I usually match my vases to a color in my book spines. Even tiny coordination makes the whole shelf look intentional.

8. Add Greenery or Floral Accents

Plants aren’t just for Pinterest—they make your shelf feel fresh, lively, and expensive.

• Small potted plants like succulents or ferns work great.
• A single trailing plant adds softness.
• Dried flowers in a minimal vase? Instant chic.

Personal touch: I love putting a small fiddle leaf fig in a corner of my shelf—it looks luxe and smells… well, leafy, I guess 😏.

9. Include a Statement Piece

Every shelf benefits from one or two attention-grabbing items.

• Large sculpture or abstract art piece
• Designer candle or trophy
• Oversized book with a stunning cover

The goal is to draw the eye. Think of it like a little conversation starter—guests immediately go, “Whoa, that looks expensive.”

10. Layer Lighting

Lighting can take a bookshelf from “meh” to museum-level luxe.

• Small LED strips or puck lights highlight objects.
• Picture lights on top of shelves work wonders.
• Even a strategically placed table lamp nearby can add drama and warmth.

Pro tip: Lighting isn’t just practical; it creates depth and shadow, which makes even simple shelves look curated.

Quick Checklist for an Expensive-Looking Bookshelf

If you want a handy recap, here’s a cheat sheet:

1. Declutter first—empty the shelves and edit ruthlessly.
2. Group books strategically—by color, size, or a mix of horizontal and vertical stacks.
3. Add decorative objects sparingly—3-5 per shelf is perfect.
4. Use negative space—leave some breathing room.
5. Mix textures and materials—wood, metal, glass, ceramics, or fabric.
6. Mind the heights—create balance and visual interest.
7. Stick to a cohesive color palette—2-3 main colors plus metallic accents.
8. Incorporate greenery or florals—adds life and freshness.
9. Include a statement piece—something that draws attention.
10. Layer lighting—LEDs, picture lights, or nearby lamps elevate everything.

Final Thoughts

Styling a bookshelf so it looks expensive doesn’t require a trust fund or a degree in interior design. It’s about curation, balance, and intentionality. Even small changes, like adding a few decorative objects or rearranging books, can make a huge difference.

Personally, I’ve learned that less is more, negative space matters, and one statement piece can elevate the entire shelf. Oh, and don’t underestimate the power of lighting—seriously, a well-lit shelf looks 10x fancier.

So, grab a few decorative pieces, maybe that marble bookend you’ve been eyeing, and start styling. Your bookshelf isn’t just storage—it’s a statement, a little slice of luxury in your living room. Who knew that something as simple as books and a few accents could make such a big impact? 😎