Rom-com revival
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Dive back into your favourite rom-com from the 1990s and early 2000s for a design trend that’s capturing hearts again
The design world is full of nostalgia these days. What’s causing the wistful nod to the past?
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Mishal Cazmi, global senior editor at Pinterest, reveals, “Over the past year, rom-com decor has truly taken off as people reminisce about classic rom-coms from the 90s and 2000s.”
As the bohemian vibes of the ’70s style gently bow out (so long, macramé), the cosy, charming essence of romantic comedies is stepping into the spotlight.
“This beloved aesthetic is making a significant comeback, infusing modern homes with a sense of warmth and whimsy,” says Eugenia Triandos, principal designer at Hibou Design & Co.
Picture the heartwarming settings of Nora Ephron and Nancy Meyers films, and you’ll understand why design aficionados are weak in the knees – searches for “Nancy Meyers homes” on Pinterest have soared by 2055 per cent.
When it comes to embracing rom-com decor, it’s all about creating spaces that feel relaxed, and inviting. It’s a look that feels collected over time, eschewing trends in favour of a more authentic, lived-in feel.
For many (geriatric millennials and gen Xers), this nostalgic style evokes memories of homes they grew up in and beloved movies that defined their youth.
“These days, I am seeing a return to lived-in home decor pieces that are unique and not repetitive,” says Jessica Cinnamon, principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc. “People are looking to purchase items that have a history with elements that connect and represent their personality.”
One of the hallmarks of rom-com decor is its vibrant and playful colour palette — think soft pastels like blush pinks, mint greens, and baby blues mixed with bold hues like fuchsia, mustard yellow, and cobalt blue.
These colours bring joy and energy to a room, making it feel light-hearted and giving it a visual hug that makes you want to 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 (Watch You’ve Got Mail for inspo).
“The key is maintaining a cohesive colour scheme, so the different patterns complement 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 serendipitous moments in a romantic comedy.
Rom-com decor’s charm 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 pre-loved armchair from your grandparents. This collected approach to decorating results in spaces that are unique and full of character.
The season for garage sales, estate sales, and flea markets is here, offering the ideal opportunity to craft your rom-com-inspired home.
“These venues are treasure troves for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that inject depth and personality into your decor,” says Cinnamon. “It’s the thrill of the hunt that often leads to the perfect, unexpected finds for your nostalgic theme.”
Scout these markets for distinctive artwork that adds a touch of romance and whimsy — think water colour prints of beloved cities, charming love-themed illustrations, or even a curated gallery wall of classic movie posters.
And don’t forget greenery; plants like succulents, pothos, or fiddle leaf figs breathe life and freshness into any space, completing the rom-com-inspired ambience.
“Incorporating 90s/2000s rom-com-inspired decor into your home is about more than just following a trend — it’s about creating a space that feels uniquely yours,” concludes Triandos.
By shopping at markets, adding whimsical elements, and mixing old with new, you can achieve a timeless, inviting aesthetic that makes every day feel like a scene from your favourite romantic comedy. After all, who wouldn’t want to live in a place that feels like a love story?
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