Top 11 Ways to Get a Vintage Modern Shelf Decor Look

Decorating shelves can be an overwhelming process for most but these are 11 Shelf Decor Must Haves to guide you to the perfect setup.

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1. Vases

Vases come in all shapes and sizes and they’re the perfect addition to a shelf. Some of the most popular options are Compote Bowl Vases, Textured Stone Vases, and Ceramic Vases. Varying the sizes of the vases is also a great idea if you choose to use multiple because it allows your decor to flow better.

2. Vintage Art Work

Vintage Art Work is a staple to bring character into your display. Especially if your home decor is more Modern, it gives it balance to bring in this Antique looking decor.

3. Wood Bowl or Tray

Another way to bring in texture is to bring in wooden items. Rustic Wooden Bowls and Trays are a perfect fit for your shelves. You can place items on them as well such as candles.

4. Wooden Beads

Wooden Beads are all the rage right now and they fit into all different types of styles. Ranging from boho, vintage, beachy, and minimalist, there’s a place for all of it. Because they are so versatile, it’s a great item to include in your shelf styling.

5. Neutral Books

Books are key to the perfect shelf decor! Go for neutral colored book covers that go with your theme. Beige, White, Black, and Grey are all great options depending on your color scheme. You can also flip the book the side that shows the pages because most times that side has more of the neutral look and is more interesting to look at than just one side of the book.

6. Candles

Candles give a warm look to any space so placing them on a shelf is the way to go. You can go with your standard candles in a glass or go for a candle holder that matches your style. I really love the look of vintage candle holders because it creates visual interest on your display.

7. Less is More

It’s important to make sure you don’t go overboard with the decor on the shelves. It could easily start to look messy, crowded, and visually overwhelming. Strategically keep empty space to allow for the important decor pieces to get their time in the spotlight because you want it to have a light and airy feel to it.

8. No Family Photos

Family photos around the house can be nice but don’t always make for a streamlined look. If you’re trying to make your shelves look like something that came out of an Architectural Digest magazine then it’s best to leave out the family photos for a different part of the home.

9. Wooden Links or Knots

Wooden Links or Knots that you’ve most likely been seeing all over the place are a great way to add texture and variety to your shelves. There are plenty of options on Amazon for that as well. I’ve linked two options below for example.

10. Greenery

Greenery adds life to a home and that’s no exception when it comes to your shelves. One important tip would be to opt for a plant that is not too vibrant and blends well with the rest of the decor. Think olive trees, eucalyptus stems, etc.

11. Keep Items in Groups of 3-5

Another interior design tip is to keep the decor items in groups of 3 to 5. This makes it visually more pleasing than having way too much cluttered pieces in one area. So whether you’re mixing books with a vase or greenery with a wooden link and vintage art piece, make sure to follow that rule.

If you loved this post then check out the 7 Quick Tips for Vintage Modern Decor.