The Nancy Meyers Aesthetic
Whether you realize it or not, you’ve probably seen Nancy Meyer’s work. If you’re obsessed with home décor like me, then she’s likely made an impact on your style in some way. Best known for writing, producing, and directing some of the most beloved films of all time, Nancy Meyers is an iconic filmmaker who has evolved into the face of an entire aesthetic, naturally dubbed “The Nancy Meyers Aesthetic.”
This trend, made even more popular recently by TikTok, embraces Nancy’s timeless and cozy but curated style seen on the big screen. Come along for my interpretation of what makes this aesthetic so alluring to audiences young and old, and how you too can turn your home into something straight out of “The Holiday.”
The Parent Trap
I couldn’t write a post on Nancy Meyers and not start with my favorite movie of all time, “The Parent Trap.” This classic film marries California casual and British chic with its two heavily contrasting sets. Nick Parker’s beautiful vineyard estate set in Napa Valley, California is a little bit funky but a whole lot cozy. The sprawling house seamlessly blends rustic accents with eclectic features, making for a one-of-a-kind, but classic home.
No matter which set best fits your style, I’ve curated custom collections to help bring your favorite look into your home.
Nick Parker’s California Vineyard
This rustic estate is home to the real-life Staglin Family Vineyards in Napa Valley, a historical vineyard founded in 1985. You can actually book a tasting and visit this breathtaking property yourself.
If you’re looking to bring some Napa Valley magic into your own home, look to incorporate neutral earth tones, contemporary finishings, and bold artwork. Rustic leather furniture, bold fabrics, and chunky pottery are also key features of this specific aesthetic. The aim of achieving the same feel is to exude a sense of refinement while incorporating comfort, therefore maintaining the easy-breezy feel of a California vineyard.
Links
Leather Chair - Sofa Table - Pottery 1 - Pottery 2 - Aluminum Sculpture - Coffee Table Books - Art 1 - Art 2
Elizabeth James’ London Townhouse
Elizabeth James’ London townhouse is perhaps the polar opposite of Mr. Parker’s rustic estate, but the interior is classic all the same. This home features chic and sophisticated interiors, truly capturing European style. The house appears perfectly curated but feels lived-in at the same time, which shows the years of love and care undoubtedly poured into the home. The trick here is to look for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. Ideally, these are pieces that have been collected over the years, but if you’re looking to create the look now, thrifting is a great option.
Links
Wallpaper - Artwork - Taper Candles - Jewelry Box - Bed Frame - Faux Roses - White Bedding - French Accent - Vintage Lamp - French Dresser
Incorporating this chic style should focus on refined accents that are timeless in nature, with no ultra trendy décor. Ornate light fixtures, tasteful artwork, and sophisticated wall coverings are common characteristics of each room. In case antiques or thrifting aren’t your thing, I’ve provided links to get a similar effect from items available online.
Links
Buffet Lamps - Vintage Frames - Clear Candle Sticks - Pedestal Bowl - Silver Accents - Wallpaper - Dinnerware - Crystal Glassware 1 - Crystal Glassware 2 - Fresh Florals
Something’s Gotta Give
This film is the perfect feel-good movie and it doesn’t hurt that it’s set in one of the most picturesque locations in the US, The Hamptons. The sprawling cedar-shake style beachfront mansion is the perfect set to really show off classic New England style. From the sun-drenched rooms adorned with crisp whites and soft blues to the meticulous yet casual décor, every tiny detail transports you to the serene world of Hampton’s luxury.
Erica Barry’s Hamptons Beach House
Blue and white no doubt dominate the color palette of this set. Other signature staples throughout the home are plush fabrics and funky accents that showcase the luxurious yet laid-back coastal feel. Wicker is also a prominent fixture throughout and can be seen in furniture pieces as well as simple accents. The key to executing this particular coastal style is to keep the main color palette fairly neutral and add in colorful fun accents where you can.
LINKS
Sofa - Throw Pillow - Floor Lamp - Bookcase - Log Holder - Chair - Book1 - Book 2 - Wicker Table - Delftware - Area Rug - Art
links
Chandelier - Sconce - Chairs - Dining Table - Rug - Greenery - Buffet - Plate 1 - Plate 2 -Plate 3 - Plate Rack
It’s Complicated
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Santa Barbara, California, this classic film starring Meryl Streep features some of my favorite set designs of all time. The main home in this movie is set in the most lush and luxurious landscape and it truly makes for the perfect vehicle to transport viewers into the story. The sprawling ranch-style home is filled with organic and unique finishings that make this home feel anything but generic.
Links
Curtains - Shades - Frames - Chair - Bench - Bed - Blanket - Bedding - Baskets - Mirror - Lamp
Jane Adler’s Santa Barbara Home
The overall palette of this set is dominated by warm earth tones and natural elements. The furnishings are plush and cozy and exude classic laid-back California vibes. The sun-drenched kitchen plays an integral role in the film and everywhere you look you’ll find one unique piece after the other. The key to this unique style is to work in a lot of natural elements such as wood, marble, and greenery. One theme that you’ll find throughout all of Nancy’s films is that nothing is ever matchy-matchy. The furniture is never a part of a set, but they are each unique and carefully curated.
links
Kitchen Rack - Pendant Lights - Wooden Bowl - Wooden Platter -Ceramic Bowl - Table Runner - Table - Chairs - Cushions - Tea Kettle - Marble Platter - Cake Stand - Island - Greenery
Overall, each film is very different from one another, but they all have a cohesive design element. Nancy is a master at curating the perfect set without making it look too put together. Each set exudes lived-in elegance that can only be created through thoughtful design and intentional accents. I hope this blog post can help you get a start on creating your one-of-a-kind home with a little inspiration from the home decor queen herself. Thanks for reading!
I was named an expert in a Rent. article. Check out the featured article:
Capturing the Magic of Nancy Meyers’ Interiors in Your Own Home | Rent.
