In the world of social media, where aesthetics reign supreme, the humble shelf has found its moment in the spotlight. The ‘shelfie’ trend has taken platforms like Instagram and Pinterest by storm, with the hashtag #shelfie boasting millions of posts. From meticulously styled bookcases to cosy mantelpiece arrangements, ‘shelf scapes’ have become a way to showcase personality, tell a story, and share memories, all while earning a few likes.
But what makes a shelf scape worthy of the ‘shelfie’ hashtag? Let’s dive into the essentials of creating a picture perfect shelf display, including a spotlight on mantel and desk clocks as key styling elements.
The rise of the shelfie
The #shelfie trend has grown exponentially, with over 2.5 million posts on Instagram alone and countless Pinterest boards dedicated to the art of shelf styling. So why the buzz? Shelves are now more than just storage, they’re a canvas for creativity. A well curated shelf tells a visual story, mixing elements of art, function, and sentiment. Shelfies are a way for social media users to show off not only their interior design ideas, but also an insight into their lifestyle, family, and personal interests.
From sleek, minimalist arrangements to vibrant, eclectic displays, shelfies have become a way for homeowners to personalise their interiors and share their style with the world.
Essentials for the perfect shelfie
Creating a beautiful shelf scape is all about balance, texture, and storytelling. Here’s a start guide to what you’ll need:
Books: A timeless choice for shelves. Stack them horizontally or vertically, mix and match colours, or organise by size for visual harmony.
Artwork: Small framed prints or canvases add a creative flair. Lean them against the wall behind your items for a layered effect.
Personal mementos: Add character with family photos, travel souvenirs, or heirlooms. These pieces make your shelf scape unique and meaningful, and mementos from the past can bring a vintage or retro element.
Greenery: Plants or faux greenery bring life and freshness to your display. Opt for cascading ivy or senecio rowleyanus (more commonly known as ‘string of pearls’), or a compact succulent.
Lighting: Mini lamps or fairy lights can add warmth and dimension, perfect for shelves in darker corners.
Clocks: A stylish mantle or desk clock is both practical and beautiful, anchoring your shelf scape with a timeless element.
The role of mantel and desk clocks in shelf scapes
Mantel and desk clocks are the unsung heroes of a well styled shelf or bookcase. These compact timepieces add sophistication and charm, effortlessly bridging the gap between functional and decorative.
Choose a classic mantel clock for a traditional vibe, or opt for a retro design with clean lines and bold colours to complement modern interiors. Mantel clocks with unique shapes or finishes make excellent centrepieces for smaller shelf arrangements. Position them as a focal point, surrounded by books or greenery, for a cohesive look.
Tips for styling success
When it comes to curating the picture perfect shelfie, creating layers is key. Place taller items like vases or framed art at the back, with smaller pieces in front for depth. Another good tip is to vary heights and textures, combining items of different sizes, materials, and finishes to keep things visually interesting.
We would also recommend sticking to a colour palette. Choose a colour scheme to tie everything together, whether it’s neutral tones, monochrome, or pops of bright colour. Shelf scapes often naturally look eclectic due to the nature of the curated objects, but a common colour scheme running throughout can prevent it from looking too cluttered.
Embrace the shelfie trend
The ‘shelfie’ trend is here to stay, and with good reason. Shelves, mantle pieces, and bookcases offer endless opportunities to showcase your personal style, celebrate memories, and experiment with interior design in a relatively inexpensive way. By including a carefully chosen mantel or desk clock in your display, you can elevate your shelf scape from ordinary to extraordinary.
