If you see, romantic comedy movies, or rom-coms as they are more lovingly known, have a warmth in them. They are bright, toasty, yet whimsical and delightful in equal measure. There is sunlight and rainbows – if not on the screen, then in your heart for sure.
In honour of that love and wistfulness, the rom-com décor trend has been taking over homes. It is a home that is snug, whimsical, and has nostalgic aesthetics as seen in romantic comedies, blends warmth, playfulness, and a touch of romance, focusing on creating spaces that feel inviting and full of character. Imagine the charming, eclectic apartments from your favorite rom coms, filled with personal touches, cozy textiles, and a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. The idea is to create a living space that feels both lived-in and loved, with a strong emphasis on comfort and personality. So how do you make such a home? Experts weigh in.
The trend
As millennials grow up, they are taking inspiration from movies of their youth, especially the 1990s – 2000s rom coms. “Nancy Meyers movies such as Father of the Bride, The Parent Trap, Something’s Gotta Give, It’s Complicated & The Intern are some of the most influential rom coms and the decor of today definitely picks inspiration from these movies. Along with Jon Hutman, Nancy created sets and homes which were maximalist, cosy, coastal vibe with a certain eclecticism to it,” says Dhruv Nagpal, Director, The Original Bed Company.
Make it your own
Rom-com décor is more than just a design style; it’s about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and filled with personality. It’s about finding joy in the little details and creating a home that feels uniquely yours—much like the memorable apartments of rom-com heroines. By incorporating elements that bring happiness and warmth, you can transform your home into a place that feels like the set of your very own romantic comedy.
Aditi Muraka Agrawal, Co-founder, Nestasia, says, “This trend is characterized by a mix of vintage finds, playful color palettes, and an array of sentimental pieces that tell a story. Think colourful cushion covers, wine glasses, decor pieces that speak your personality. It’s about blending the old with the new, mixing bold patterns with soft textures, and adding a sprinkle of charm and humor to every corner – infusing a modern touch to tradition. Picture mismatched throw pillows, framed love letters, and art pieces that make you smile. It’s décor that doesn’t take itself too seriously—it’s comfortable, inviting, and perfectly imperfect, just like the plot of your favorite rom-com.”
Do it right
Start by grounding your space with classic furniture pieces like a tufted sofa or an antique side table, which offer a timeless foundation. Complement these with contemporary accents such as sleek lighting or minimalist art to keep the overall look fresh and balanced. “Opt for neutral tones in larger furniture pieces to maintain versatility and make it easier to mix different styles seamlessly. Add depth and comfort to your space by incorporating a variety of fabrics like velvet, linen, and wool for throw blankets, cushions, and rugs. Choose a colour palette that blends soft pastels with richer hues to create a romantic ambiance. Layering rugs can also enhance dimension, with a smaller, patterned rug placed over a larger, neutral one to achieve a visually appealing effect,” say Rashi Bothra & Ruchi Gehani, Founders & Interior Designers, Azure Interiors.
Ambience rules
To effectively embrace the rom-com décor, start by selecting lighting fixtures that enhance the romantic and whimsical vibe of the space. Select chandeliers or pendant lights with soft, warm illumination and decorative details like crystals or vintage-inspired designs. “Use a colour palette that includes blush pinks, warm golds, and soft whites, and choose lighting that complements these hues to create a dreamy atmosphere. Incorporate layered lighting, combining ambient, task, and accent lights to highlight various decorative elements and set different moods. Adding statement lighting pieces can also serve as focal points, making the space feel more enchanting. Additionally, consider using dimmable lights and playful accents such as fairy lights or string lights to further enhance the cozy and whimsical ambiance,” says Nikunj Shah, Promoter, Sources Unlimited.
Weave it in
Integrating elements of rom-com into your existing home décor can be done gradually and thoughtfully. Start small by introducing a few key pieces, like a cozy throw, a vintage side table, or floral cushions, which can shift the feel of the room without overwhelming it. “Layering new textiles, such as rugs, cushions, or curtains, over existing furniture can add texture and warmth, quickly changing the vibe of a space. Accessorizing with decorative items like vintage vases, framed personal photos, or whimsical artwork can personalize your space and align it with the rom-com décor trend…Sometimes, simply rearranging your existing furniture can help create a more inviting and intimate layout that fits the rom-com vibe, such as creating cozy nooks or conversation areas within your space,” opines Natasha Jain, Co-founder and CEO, Nataelier by Bent Chair.
Maximalist cues
Embrace maximalism and do not shy away from layering textures, patterns, and colours. The key to this trend is creating a space that feels rich and immersive, where every detail contributes to the overall sense of luxury and romance. “Use opulent cushions and bedding as central elements in the room. Let these pieces take centre stage, around which the rest of the decor is harmoniously arranged. Mix and match rich tones with softer shades to create a dynamic yet cohesive look. The interplay of colours will enhance the drama and elegance of the space. While maximalism is key, there’s a fine line between richly decorated and cluttered. Ensure that each piece has its place and that the space remains visually appealing without feeling overwhelming,” advices Abhishek Kathuria, Founder and Creative Director, Rosabagh.
Like with any style, it is important to try and bring your own personality to the space and with this décor trend you can nail it by doing it right. After all, home is where the heart is.
Tips
- Add elements that reflect your personality and experiences. Think about including items that tell a story or have sentimental value.
- Prioritize comfort with plush seating, cozy rugs, and soft fabrics. The space should be inviting and easy to relax in.
- Blend vintage pieces with modern furniture for a balanced, lived-in look that feels unique and authentic.
- Avoid cluttering the space with too many items. While personalization is key, too much can make the space feel cramped rather than cozy.
- The charm of rom-com décor lies in its eclecticism, so don’t feel pressured to match everything perfectly. Embrace the mix!
- While aesthetics is important, ensure the space remains functional and suits your everyday needs.
