From the iconic films “You’ve Got Mail” to “Julie and Julia,” Nora Ephron’s works epitomized the shabby chic style of the 1990s. Cozy textiles, striped sofas, and pine bookcases were the hallmark of the era, but what was missing was a romantic lead to complete the picture. The popularity of Ephron’s films has given rise to the Instagram account @noraephroninteriors, which showcases snapshots of her most beloved movies. From Kathleen Kelly’s charming cottagecore apartment in “You’ve Got Mail” with its jumbled bookshelves, table lamps, and squishy sofa, to Sally’s cheerful yellow-and-blue bedroom in “When Harry Met Sally” and Julia Child’s pastel kitchen in “Julie & Julia,” fans can’t seem to get enough of the aesthetic.
Like many trends before it, this phenomenon has been given a somewhat annoying label: Ephroncore. It represents the millennial desire to romanticize Ephron’s work and the worlds her characters inhabited. We are eager to apply that same optimism to our own homes, especially during the autumn season, when her films reach the height of their popularity.
One of my favorite scenes from an Ephron movie occurs in “When Harry Met Sally” as Harry and Sally stroll through the leafy streets of New York in the autumn. Autumn itself becomes a character in Ephron’s movies, as Kelly writes in “You’ve Got Mail,” “Don’t you love New York in the fall? It makes me want to buy school supplies. I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils…” The change in atmosphere that comes with the season brings a sense of comfort that softens the harsh realities of life. Ephron skillfully uses both her characters and sets to draw viewers in.
Ephron enthusiasts have undoubtedly incorporated her cozy interior spaces into their own homes with the use of textiles, striped sofas, and bookcases. If you’re hoping to achieve the 1990s rom-com look inspired by Ephron, here are a few key elements to consider.
Firstly, a table lamp is crucial to capturing the essence of Ephron’s interiors. Whether it’s the neat delicacy of Joe Fox’s desk lamp or the eclectic mix of table lamps found in Kathleen Kelly’s apartment, these lighting fixtures make a statement. Marks & Spencer’s Kirsten ceramic lamp with its chequered base and scalloped shade is the perfect embodiment of that Ephron vibe.
Next, a comfortable chair or sofa is a signature piece in any Ephron-inspired interior. Picture Billy Crystal, clad in a cable-knit jumper, lounging in a rumpled blue armchair, reading a book in “When Harry Met Sally.” Or imagine Meg Ryan’s apartment in “You’ve Got Mail” anchored by a plush floral sofa. Even the best friends, Marie and Jess, in the same movie have a sofa with a preppy stripe. Tom Hanks’ houseboat in “Sleepless in Seattle” may have a slightly more masculine style, but it still exudes the relaxed Ephron vibe with its cozy wooden textures and inviting sofa.
Distressed furniture is another key element to consider. Ephron’s sets often feature a distressed table, dresser, or cabinet, usually in the French shabby-chic style. These pieces add character to the room, amidst the wainscoting, soft furnishings, parquet floors, and large windows typical of an Ephron NY interior. House of Indi offers a beautiful distressed, pale-green, bow-legged table that perfectly captures that classic Ephron look.
In Ephron’s movies, the bedroom and the bed play a significant role. Think of Sally’s sunny room in “When Harry Met Sally” with its floral pinwheel quilt or Kathleen’s cozy bedroom in “You’ve Got Mail” adorned with oversized pillows and a patchwork quilt. Characters are often seen lying, crying, or chatting in bed, making it a haven of comfort. Mimic this look with Toast’s traditional folk patchwork quilt in yellow and brown.
Accent pillows or cushions are a must-have to create that autumn ambiance. Ephron scenes are filled with these cozy additions, providing optimal stability during any emotional journey you may experience while watching your favorite rom-com, as noted by the Instagram account @noraephroninteriors. Layer up cushions in striped and floral prints for an over-the-top level of cushioned comfort that brings your home closer to an Ephron protagonist’s habitat.
Lastly, no Ephron-inspired interior is complete without a bookcase. Ephron’s characters are often depicted as well-read, with a character or two frequently buried in a book. To achieve that shabby-chic 1990s look, choose a pine bookcase and pair it with older armchairs and wooden flooring. Sklum and EZ Living Furniture offer some classic pine bookcases, while Pamono presents a selection of vintage, colorful options.
By incorporating these key elements into your home decor, you can create a space that captures the essence of Nora Ephron’s timeless films. Embrace the cozy textiles, striped sofas, and pine bookcases, and let the spirit of Ephron live on in your own home.
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