10 Genius Ways to Create a Space-Saving Book Nook

Dec 05, 2016

As any book lover knows, it doesn't take long for bookshelves to start overflowing, which makes small space living a mighty big challenge for the passionate bibliophile. If you're currently living this struggle, rest assured that you're not alone. And thank goodness for that, because others just like you have come up with a bevy of ingenious storage solutions for even the smallest of book nooks. From beneath the bed to the tippy top of the room, no storage stone is left unturned. If you're looking for more space to support your bookish sensibility, look no further — there's a solution below with your name on it.

1. Custom Shelving: A surefire way to maximize your space is to customize wherever you can. Floating shelves are super simple to install and they help you make the most of what you have, from floor to ceiling. (via Gravity Home)

2. Closet Nook: To look at this sweet spot sans furniture, most would be hard-pressed to believe it could be transformed into such a warm, inviting reading nook. It just goes to show how far a little creative ingenuity can take you. (via Apartment Therapy)

3. Book Decor: If you’re concerned that filling your room with books will overcrowd your aesthetic, consider taking your books’ decor potential to the next level. Colorful patterns will eliminate visual chaos and create organization in its place. (via Heather Zerah Interiors)

4. Lofty Leisure: A loft can decrease clutter and increase your space exponentially. Plus, it’s quite possible that there is no cozier place to spend a rainy day of reading. (via Cup of Jo)

5. Get Low: A lot of people overlook the lower half of the room when it comes to storage potential, but it’s packed with possibilities. A bookshelf like this one is a great way to separate a studio apartment while providing a whole bunch of space-saving utility. (via Mi Casa Revista)

6. Get High: Just as you can take advantage of the oft-overlooked lower part of your room, the highest parts of your space can work storage magic too. If you have a ton of books to store but don’t want to sacrifice all of your wall art real estate, hang ’em high so that both your books and your art can have their moment. (via Domino)

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7. Use Every Cranny: Who needs a blank wall when you can fill-in-the-blank with your favorite authors? If walls full of books are on your wishlist, consider reserving a spot for spacious organization — like this clean and clutter-free headboard — to create a bigger, more open appearance. (via Domino)

8. Wayfair South Shore Storage Platform Bed ($435): Shelves are only one option, not *the* only option. Put your bed on double-duty by taking advantage of this brilliant storage idea.

9. Tree of Knowledge: Store more books in less space by forgoing standard horizontal shelves in favor of a book tree. As your reading queue expands, so can your branches — the sky’s the limit! (via homedit)

10. Color Complements: If an abundance of colorful books is cramping your monochromatic style, simply turn 'em around. Voila! Aesthetic harmony. (via Posh Pennies)

Looking for more ways to maximize your space? Follow us on Pinterest!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

15 Stylish Curtains That Will Instantly Transform Any Room

I like to think of curtains as a room's final accessory, like putting on earrings before heading for a night out. They instantly warm up a room, literally and aesthetically, and can be the statement piece or the neutral backdrop to your favorite room. They also provide privacy, blocking unwanted views and light, which is essential in bedrooms, living areas, and offices. We found 15 curtains in a slew of materials, patterns, and styles that will elevate your style and space. Make sure to measure your window’s width and height to determine the right length and width of the drapes, letting them hang to the floor or a little beyond it, and dress your rooms for fall and beyond!

CB2

CB2 Light Brown Organic Cotton Velvet Window Curtain Panel

Fall is the perfect time to swap your sheer drapes for a lush organic cotton velvet. This light brown velvet curtain panel reduces sound, darkens the room, and hangs beautifully for a luxe look.

West Elm

West Elm Laney Floral Curtain

Feeling more floral in earthy tones? This sophisticated floral pattern will elevate your windows, offer privacy, and keep light at bay. There are also two ways to hang, giving you more rod style choices.

Quince

Quince Raw Silk Curtain

These raw silk blackout curtains are low-key luxe, designed with a nubby texture rather than a high-sheen silk. Hang from the back tabs for an elegant pleated style, use the rod pocket to create a more relaxed, gathered look, or hang with a set of our curtain clips. Your choice!

Wayfair

Susanna Linen Room Darkening Curtain Panel Pair

Sometimes a room needs a touch of floral charm to bring it to life. This stunning drapery set brightens your space by letting in just the right amount of sunlight, while still maintaining your privacy.

CB2

CB2 Basketweave Natural Tan Cotton Window Curtain Panel

Get this classic look that never goes out of style with opaque cotton ivory panels that provide total privacy. Pair with sheer French-Belgian linen for a 5-star hotel look.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Zosia Curtain

This romantic floral print says demure all over it. The light-filtering organic cotton panels are perfect for living spaces and offices.

Target

Threshold Blackout Velvet Window Curtain Panel

Get the best night's sleep ever with this affordable blackout curtain. The seasonal organic velvet is also super easy to care for.

Wayfair

Madison Park Anaheim Plaid Darkening Thermal Fleece Lined Curtain

It's almost fleece season! Block the breeze with this plaid panel made with warming fleece lining. The set reminds me of something you'd see in a cozy Studio McGee cabin.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Belgian Linen Flax Curtain

This best-selling curtain from PB offers the airy, breezy look of a summer panel, but its hidden secret is the blackout liner — ideal for sleep-in Saturdays.

Wayfair

Eastern Accents Kelso Viscose Room Darkening Curtain Panel

The timeless check pattern adds a touch of classic style to any room, while the built-in liner ensures your space stays perfectly dark for sleep and movie-night coziness.

IKEA

IKEA GLANSHAGTORN Panel

Bring in a burst of green or orange color this season with IKEA's plaid curtains that also filter light, perfect for playrooms and dorms.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Ella Vine Floral Window Panel

This semi-sheer fabric filters light through your space in an eye-catching floral vines print. It's OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified cotton and machine washable.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Pieced Stripe Curtain

Have a little fun with stripes pieced together with zig-zag stitching. This light-filtering curtains adds a pop of pattern to any room.

Made Trade

Made Trade Grid-Stitch Curtain Panel

Made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, this embroidered curtain allows some light to pass through while providing privacy. Love the grid pattern!

Etsy

Etsy Minimalist French Country Drapes

Get the French Country look with this minimalist floral linen curtains that you can customize to your room's needs. So sweet!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Dolly Parton Just Found Out If She's Actually Related to Her “Fairy Goddaughter” Miley Cyrus

I think we all remember tuning into our favorite Disney show, Hannah Montana, only to see the ever-iconic "Jolene" singer, Dolly Parton, show up to feature as a guest star. I remember feeling shocked, and wondering what the relation was — only to find out that Dolly was Miley Cyrus' real-life "honorary godmother"! And this relationship runs deep!

Throughout many interviews over the years, it's clear Miley and Dolly continue to share a lot of love, admiration, and respect between them given the way they talk about each other. TBH, we couldn't love them more! With that said, here's a breakdown of their heartwarming relationship — plus all their beautiful collaborations and sweet moments they've shared.

How did Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus meet?

Photo by Vince Bucci/Getty Images

As you may know, Miley's dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, is a popular country music artist. During his "Achy Breaky Heart" era — yes, it's stuck my head now, too — he connected with Dolly as they toured together. Dolly recounted more about this to the London Evening Standard last year when she said that “...of course, Miley became my goddaughter; I was her fairy godmother." She continued, "We really have a true bond; she is like a daughter or a sister to me.”

Are Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton related?

Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for SXSW

Dolly has claimed to be Miley's "honorary godmother." She told Howard Stern recently that she's known Miley since she was born, and even retold the story of how she came to be Miley's amazing godmother. She told Howard of Billy Ray, "And he said … ‘We’re having a girl, and you’ve got to be her godmother!’ And I said: ‘Well, I’d be honored.’" And while that was the inception of this beautiful relationship, Dolly elaborated that it was really what formed between she and Miley that made it so special. She said, "So actually, Miley and I took over from there. We just stayed very, very close through the years.”

And this week, Access Hollywood has actually revealed that the two are, indeed, related by blood after all! In the interview, Ancestry revealed that Dolly and Miley are actually seventh cousins once removed! It turns out their family member that they have in common was named John Brickey who lived in Virginia in 1740. Dolly was ecstatic over the news saying, "Is that true? That's amazing! Well, we're so close, Miley and I. I would've thought we would've been at least third cousins, 10 times removed." In regards to how Miley felt about the news? She said, "I’m sure she'll get a kick out of that, but it doesn’t surprise me because she does feel like family." We didn't think we could love these two anymore, but it turns out we can!

Have they collaborated on any projects?

Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Ever since the Hannah Montana days, these two have collaborated on projects and music! Dolly appeared on Miley's song, "Rainbowland,"and Miley returned the favor by appearing on Dolly's rendition of "Wrecking Ball" last year. The two have also covered each other's songs countless times over the years — not to mention the clear influence Dolly's music had on Miley's own songwriting in general.

In an interview with NPR, Miley discussed how Dolly helped her understand sexuality and personality in music. She says, "The best thing that she does is, she's not afraid to laugh at herself," she said. "And she pushed the boundaries for country music, by looking the way that she does, and saying the things that she says, and being sexual in that way. I mean, there's no one that's been able to make country music sexual more than Dolly!"

Our Favorite Miley and Dolly Moments

Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images

These sweet girlies have shared so many amazing moments, so keep scrolling to see their best collaborations, and all of our favorite times they've talked about each other over the years!

Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton Singing on New Years Eve

One of my favorite, most recent, moments for this adorable duo is this stunning performance of "Wrecking Ball" and "I Will Always Love You." They combined their most popular songs into a stunning harmonious medley, while also showcasing their love and friendship for each other. This was a stunning and emotional moment for everyone tuning in to watch their New Years Eve special!

Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton Singing "Jolene"

We all know and love this song, but I will certainly remember being introduced to "Jolene" with Miley's iconic cover when I was a kid. I love this rendition where the two pals get to sing it together, too. Their voices are so different, yet blend incredibly well together! This was yet another sweet moment for the books!

Miley Recreates Dolly Parton Classic With Jimmy Fallon

In this absolutely hilarious skit, we see Jimmy Fallon and Miley Cyrus re-create Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers' classic hit, "Islands in the Stream." And Miley, busty and all, goes fully into the character. This was such a funny moment, and we love how the two are able to poke fun at each other in respectful, yet hilarious ways.

Miley Cyrus Says Dolly Only Contacts Her Via Fax

One of our favorite things about Dolly is her drastic aversion to technology. Miley told Seth Meyers about a hilarious instance she had with Dolly about this. She claimed that Dolly doesn't mind using a phone, but whenever she needs to talk to someone over text, she'll do a fax, and then someone who works for her will scan the fax, then the scan will go into a text, which then gets sent to Miley. Whew! We're exhausted just thinking about it!

Miley says that if Dolly wants to send a demo, then it's a similarly complicated process. She'll record a cassette, which gets recorded on a flip phone, which gets recorded on an iPhone voice memo, which then gets sent to Miley. We're glad Miley's finding the humor in Dolly's anti-technology quirks!

Miley Cyrus Covers Dolly Parton's Song "Light of a Clear Blue Morning"

Miley's voice may be different than Dolly's, but you can't dispute that her growly vibrato, and yodel-edque vocals were made for country. So when she covered this stunning Dolly song, she definitely killed it and delivered a beautiful cover. Don't mind us keeping this on repeat until further notice...

Dolly Parton Talks About Being Miley's Godmother

In this Wired interview, Dolly answered common questions that she gets about herself online, and one of the questions was about Miley. In regards to the question, "Is Dolly Parton Miley Cyrus' Godmother?" Dolly said, "Well everybody knows that. I would actually say I'm the fairy godmother of Miley Cyrus." We love how fun Dolly is, and we can tell how proud she is to be Miley's godmother!

Dolly Parton Covers Miley's "Wrecking Ball"

@dollyparton When I heard 'Wrecking Ball' I almost wept in my car. When it started into the chorus it hit me like a wrecking ball! I thought how great can a song be and how great can @Miley Cyrus ♬ Wrecking Ball - Dolly Parton

Dolly talked about how beautiful Miley Cyrus' song "Wrecking Ball is", and how much she needed to cover it, on her Tiktok account. Dolly talked about how much the song meant to her, and how much it meant to have Miley sing it with her on her rock album. She concluded with, "How great can a song be?" We definitely agree, Dolly!

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Header image via Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

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12 Home Decor Ideas I’m Stealing From Studio McGee’s New Lake Tahoe Renovation

Shea and Syd McGee are celebrating an anniversary this week – that is, 10 years of turning their small passion project into the $100 million empire that is Studio McGee. The couple are known for bridging the gap between high-end luxury and accessible design by sharing trade secrets and engaging with followers on what is now their hugely popular Instagram account. Along the way, they've taught us how to create beautiful spaces, democratized design with affordable home goods at Target, and soon will release Shea's third book — a cookbook based on her Around the Table series — in fall 2025.

But first, here's their new project for a family in Lake Tahoe, CA, proving just how modern, approachable, and timeless their style is. Inspired always by their clean lines, neutral color palettes, and layered textures, here are 12 home decor ideas I'm stealing for future design inspiration!

Built-In Locker Storage

Studio McGee

How cute are these? Given the home will be used primarily for winter sports around the Lake Tahoe area, these built-in lockers are genius as well as fun and functional for a kids room. I love them for toys, ski and sporting equipment, even clothing and shoes since kids' closets are always a bit of a mess (at least in my home!).

Plaid Wallpaper

Studio McGee

I'm totally digging this plaid wallpaper for a classic twist in a neutral hue. It can be used anywhere from kids rooms to guest rooms to pantries and laundry rooms. Try their Rigby Plaid Print Wallpaper or Woven Buffalo Check Wallpaper for any of the above! You can also shop the artwork, like the Studio McGee No Wake Zone print and antique snowshoes on Etsy.

Reading Nook

Studio McGee

I'm a big fan of creating cozy tech-free zones in my home. Love this built-in reading nook with deep seating, built-in storage, and leather sconces. For a similar look, try Studio McGee's Hendrick Articulating Sconce or these budget-friendly Scandinavian sconces.

In-Bed Built-In Shelves

Studio McGee

The thought of playing and nesting in these custom built-in bunk beds après-ski is pretty dreamy, but my budget had to settle on the IKEA SMÅSTAD Loft Bed for my kiddo. Still, the built-in shelves for books and all my daughter's tiny trinkets is a sweet idea, with wall sconce to boot!

Bed Dressing

Studio McGee

Studio McGee bedroom designs are a masterclass in how to make a bed. They frequently use soft, muted tones like whites, creams, grays, and earthy neutrals, creating a calming, serene atmosphere. Pops of color are added through accents like pillows, rugs, or artwork. Here, they layer pillows, shams, throw pillows with a quilt, duvet, and a throw blanket for a flawless look. The hard part? Not wanting to jump in and stay all day long.

Vintage Style Rugs

Studio McGee

Classic pieces, like vintage-style rugs, are paired with contemporary furniture or lighting to create a well-balanced look. The vintage style rug here really stands out and anchors all the loveliness above. Try the Studio McGee Benito Neutral Rug or the Threshold x Studio McGee Tufted Persian Style Mushroom Rug in Beige for a similar look.

Wood Paneled Bathroom Wall

Studio McGee

Adding a pop of color and architectural detail, this wood paneling in an earthy green color levels up this bathroom decor. Love the small vintage painting too!

Floor-To-Ceiling Tile

Studio McGee

Subway tile is always classic and looks stunning here from floor to ceiling in the guest bath. Is tile the new wallpaper? IDK.

A Tub Moment

Studio McGee

From perfectly styled shelves to well-curated décor, every detail is carefully considered to create an inviting space. This picture-perfect moment is brought to you by a standalone bath, chandelier above, vintage rug below, and a room with view. Add a stool for a candle, flowers, wine(?), and you're in bath time business.

The Laundry Bench

Studio McGee

Not only do they have a laundry/reading chair, but a bench with tufted cushion to store all your one-day-worn clothes. Or just sit and ponder the day's capsule. Lovely!

Nightstand Decor

Studio McGee

Shea's pillow styling is perfectly complemented by two perfectly curated nightstands, each with a thoughtful selection of books, candle, fresh flowers, and a personal memento.

Brass Faucets

Studio McGee

Their room's often prioritize organic materials, like wooden furniture, stone accents, and greenery, to bring warmth and a sense of nature indoors. In this room, the brass faucets add a touch of sophistication, elevating the neutral decor with a modern edge. What room is your favorite?

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Reese Witherspoon’s ‘Legally Blonde’ Prequel News Is The Most Exciting Update For Fans

Get ready to bend and snap like never before, because not only is Reese Witherspoon bringing us Legally Blonde 3, but a Legally Blonde TV show is also coming to Prime Video! The new TV show will serve as a spinoff of The Morning Show star's franchise from the early 2000s (plus Legally Blondes — IYKYK). Keep reading for all the important info that'll make you want to use legal jargon in everyday life ;).

Who's in Prime Video's Legally Blonde cast?

Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Amazon

On September 25, Reese Witherspoon revealed Prime Video will have an open casting call for the Legally Blonde TV show. That means anyone can audition with this very-pink online form. "Our search for the high school version of Elle Woods is officially ON! 💖✨" Reese says on Instagram. "With our friends @primevideo we’re making the casting process totally OPEN, so you can submit your auditions at the link in my bio… I’m SO excited to see all your fabulous takes on everyone’s favorite Gemini vegetarian! 💕👛🌟🎀"

Is Sabrina Carpenter playing Elle Woods?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Parfums Christian Dior/Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

We don't have a full cast announcement yet, but we DO have the perfect dream cast. After fans realized that Sabrina Carpenter and Leo Woodall followed each other on Instagram (and Sabrina wore pink on SNLand then recreatedthis iconic scene), Sabrina is now the only celeb I can see playing Elle Woods and I am crossing all my fingers and toes for this fancast to come true! Leo would definitely nail Warner, but One Dayproved he also has the versatility to capture Emmett's sweetness.

"DO YOU SEE THE VISION," one X user asks, while another agrees, "I NEED THIS TO HAPPEN." Same!

Luke Wilson, who played Emmett in the original film, said he'd love to return for the series. "[I could] play Emmett's dad or something like that?" he says on the Today show. "[Reese is] great, so hopefully we'll do something."

Other fancasts include Selena Gomez as Vivian, Blake Lively as Brooke, Leslie Jones as Paulette, and Stranger Things' Natalia Dyer as Chutney. Yes please!

Is there a Legally Blonde TV show?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Yes, a Legally Blonde TV show is coming to Prime Video! The official logline promises it "follows Elle Woods in high school as we learn about the life experiences that shaped her into the iconic young woman we came to know and love in the first Legally Blonde film."

Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine is behind the series. Nobody knows Legally Blonde as well as Reese, so if she has any kind of creative input, I know it's going to be a TV show worth watching!

Will Reese Witherspoon be in the Legally Blonde TV show?

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios/IMDb

Considering the series is a prequel, we probably won't see Reese Witherspoon back as Elle. However, I'd love for her to make a cameo! (This could also be the perfect opportunity for Reese Witherspoon's daughter Ava Phillippe to make her acting debut!) Either way, it looks like Reese will still be involved in the production of the show.

“I truly couldn’t be more excited about this series! Fans will get to know how Elle Woods navigated her world as a teenager with her distinct personality and ingenuity, in ways that only our beloved Elle could do. What could be better than that?!” Reese says in a statement to Variety. “Legally Blonde is back!”

Who's working on Reese Witherspoon's Legally Blonde TV show?

Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for ReedPOP

The new Legally Blonde TV show will reportedly be written by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, who developed and executive produced Gossip Girl. Legally Blonde producer Marc Platt will also work on the series alongside Hello Sunshine's Lauren Neustadter. Creator Laura Kittrell will be showrunner and executive producer.

How old was Reese Witherspoon when she shot Legally Blonde?

Vince Bucci/Getty Images

Reese Witherspoon was around 24 or 25 years old when she shot the first Legally Blonde movie. Aside from the fact that Reese embodies Elle Woods better than anyone, her age works perfectly because Elle is a college senior at the beginning of the film, meaning the character is also in her early 20s.

When can I watch Reese Witherspoon's Legally Blonde TV show?

Metro Goldwyn Mayer

The new Legally Blonde TV show is in the earliest stages of pre-production right now, so it'll be quite a while before we're able to cozy up on the couch to watch (wearing our best pink pajamas, of course). Until then, you can stream Legally Blonde, Legally Blonde 2, and Legally Blondes on Max as many times as you want.

What would you like to see in Reese Witherspoon's Legally Blonde TV show? Let us know on Facebook, and check out the latest news on Reese's Big Little Lies season 3!

This post has been updated.

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WTF Are These White Worms In My Salmon?

In a world where people are hopping onto strange food trends without hesitation, like making pizza with naan and customizing their morning coffees beyond repair, it’s amazing anyone could still be grossed out by food. Needless to say, we still have our limits… especially when it comes to those itty bitty white worms wiggling around in our pretty pink salmon fillets (HUH?). But before you swear off these healthy omega-3-rich fillets for good, let’s understand what these worms in salmon are, why they’re present, and why you don’t have to snub your fave lox at brunch this Sunday.

Monstruo Estudio

The white worms we occasionally spot in salmon fillets are parasites called roundworms. Though these worms are more noticeable in salmon due to the contrast in color, they can be found in many white fish too — they’re just camouflaged.

But we shouldn’t be freaking out.

Huy Phan / PEXELS

Despite the fact that our knee-jerk reaction is to panic and consider things contaminated, roundworms are as natural to fish as insects are to fruits and veggies. A teeny white worm in your salmon is the equivalent to an aphid, thrip, or mite in your recently harvested greens. Yes, it’s still yucky AF, but totally natural.

Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS

The good news is that roundworms don’t pose health risks when fish is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the FDA’s recommendation. When it comes to lightly preserved or raw fish — like sushi, sashimi, ceviche, or gravlax — as long as the product was commercially frozen to an internal temperature of -4 degrees Fahrenheit for at least seven days prior to preparation, parasites are terminated. (High five, fellow sushi lovers!)

Just be sure to avoid sketchy sushi joints; when you hear about people getting sick from eating at low-profile all-you-can-eat sushi spot, it’s because they aren’t handling their fish properly.

Lum3n / PEXELS

It is believed by some that wild-caught fish are more susceptible to roundworms due to the fact that they interact with an external ecosystem, while farmed fish are segregated from the wild and are fed pellets treated for parasites. This isn’t something *we* can confirm, but it’s food for thought nonetheless.

Mister Mister / PEXELS

If you really want to feast on fish but paranoia has now gotten the best of you, there is an at-home method you can try: fish candling. This method has you place a bright light beneath a fillet of fish so you can see the shadows of any worms present. You can then grab some tweezers and remove, then discard of the worms yourself. (This method obviously isn’t for the faint of heart.)

We say, thoroughly cook your fish and pretend worms never happened!

Would finding worms in your salmon deter you from eating it ever again? Let us know @BritandCo!

This post has been updated.

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