If we were asked to define 2024 by a stand-out design trend, 'bookshelf wealth' would likely come out on top. Last year saw a surge of celebrities sharing their bookcase styling, including Christie Brinkley, no less.
The model's overflowing shelves emphasise her inevitable love for reading, but unlike many other variations of the trend, she gives us more to talk about than her possessions. While knowing how to style a bookcase is one thing, choosing the right color for it is another. This is where we can draw inspiration from Christie's dusty blue hue.
Decorating with blue, whether on your walls, cabinets, or shelves, is one of the most fail-safe choices you can make. 'Consistently voted ‘the most trusted color’, blue is a hardy perennial thanks to its timelessness, versatility and universal appeal,' comments design expert Lena Gierasinska. What makes it so powerful on Christie's bookcase, however, is how it brings tranquility to her busy shelves.
When paired with blue, the full shelves don't feel overwhelming. The space feels personal, lived-in, but calm – a result of this shade.
'When used in interior decorating, blue shades have an ability to evoke feelings of peace and serenity. Blue feels equally soothing and refreshing all at once, which means that it’s the perfect shade for creating a relaxing atmosphere in any room,' Lena adds.
Shop H&G's blue edit
You don't need to paint your bookcase to follow Christie's example. These blue accessories will look just as tranquil on any shelf, cabinet or mantelpiece. Meanwhile, the pillows bring blue's serenity to your accent chair or bedroom.
These blue vases would be a gorgeous accent to white shelves. I love how they come in different sizes to create variety and impact.
These pretty book ends add a natural and beautiful touch to any bookshelves. They would look especially stunning on the sides of white books.
This shimmery light blue pillow would be a gorgeous complement to a dining chair of the same hue. However, it also looks great on a neutral sofa or crisp white bedding.
'It’s hard to beat the versatility of blue – pale to mid tones feel tranquil and serene, whereas cobalt or navy are rich, deep, and dramatic,' Lena says.
When choosing a particular blue tone, you could do far worse than follow Christie's example and opt for a deep yet dusty shade for a sophisticated twist on your cabinet. However, as Lena suggests, the right shade depends on what mood you want to see in that particular room.
To style blue in interiors, start by considering the mood you want to evoke. In a bedroom, a darker tone like navy feels warm, cosy, and inviting, whereas lighter blues lend a feeling of peacefulness to a living room or bathroom,' she says. 'The versatility of the shade means it works alongside most hues, but pairing with bold and vibrant colourways, like mustard or terracotta, will feel playful.'
'While color trends come and go, the enduring popularity of blue is undisputed, so whether you choose a cornflower blue sofa or a teal vase, your piece will never go out of style.'
