Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission for purchases made through links on this page.
Article content
The design world is full of nostalgia these days. What’s the reason for this wistful nod to the past? Mishal Cazmi, Global Senior Editor at Pinterest, reveals, “This past year, romantic comedy-style decor has really taken off as people reminisce about classic romantic comedies from the ’90s and 2000s.” As the bohemian vibes of ’70s style slowly fade away (goodbye, macrame), the cozy, charming essence of romantic comedies is taking the spotlight. “This popular aesthetic is making a significant comeback, bringing a sense of warmth and whimsy to modern homes,” says Eugenia Triandos, the visionary lead designer at Hibou Design & Co. Imagine the heartwarming backdrops of Nora Ephron and Nancy Meyers’ films, and you’ll understand why design fans are going weak at the knees—searches for “Nancy Meyers homes” on Pinterest are up 2,055 percent!
Display 2
Article content
When it comes to romantic comedy decorating, it’s all about creating spaces that feel relaxed and inviting. It’s a look that feels collected over time, eschewing trends in favor of a more authentic, homey feel. For many (geriatric millennials and Gen Xers), this nostalgic style evokes memories of the homes they grew up in and the favorite movies that defined their youth.
“These days, I see a return to home accessories that are unique, not monotonous, and can be used in home decor,” says Jessica Cinnamon, award-winning principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc. “People want to buy items that have a story and contain elements that speak to them and reflect their personality.”
One of the hallmarks of rom-com decor is its vibrant and playful color palette—think soft pastels like soft pink, mint green, and baby blue mixed with bold hues like fuchsia, mustard yellow, and cobalt blue. These colors bring joy and energy to a room, giving it a carefree vibe and a visual hug that will make you smile. Rom-com decor thrives on mix-and-match patterns, so don’t be afraid to combine florals with stripes or polka dots with geometric shapes (check out Email for inspiration). “The key is to keep a cohesive color scheme so that the different patterns complement each other rather than clash,” advises Cinnamon. This eclectic mix creates a dynamic, visually stimulating space that feels both curated and effortlessly thrown together, much like the happy moments in a romantic comedy.
Display 3
Article content
The charm of rom-com decor lies in its anti-trend vibe. Sounds like an oxymoron, right? But think about it – in a world of fleeting design trends, rom-com decor shines by celebrating individuality and personal history. Every piece tells a story, whether it’s a vintage lamp from a flea market or a secondhand armchair from your grandparents. This collected approach to decorating results in rooms that are unique and full of character.
The season of garage sales, estate auctions, and flea markets is here, offering the ideal opportunity to style your home in the style of a romantic comedy. “These places are treasure troves of unique pieces that add depth and personality to your decor,” says Cinnamon. “It’s the thrill of the hunt that often leads to the perfect, unexpected finds for your nostalgic theme.” Look to these markets for distinctive artwork that adds a touch of romance and whimsy—think watercolor prints of popular cities, charming love-themed illustrations, or even a curated gallery wall of classic movie posters. And don’t forget the greenery; plants like succulents, pothos, or fiddle leaf figs will breathe life and freshness into any room, completing the romantic comedy-inspired ambiance.
“Outfitting your home with decor inspired by ’90s/2000s romantic comedies is about more than just following a trend—it’s about creating a space that feels unique,” concludes Triandos. By shopping at markets, adding quirky elements, and mixing old with new, you can achieve a timeless, inviting aesthetic that makes every day feel like a scene from your favorite romantic comedy. Because who wouldn’t want to live in a place that feels like a love story?
Article content
