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Nancy Meyers’ films are more than just irresistible feelgood entertainment — they’re a masterclass in cozy, stylish interiors, which inspires us to achieve the same kind of dreamy atmosphere in our own homes. While the beloved filmmaker may not be an interior designer by trade, she does have her own aesthetic in home design. You can spot this signature style in every single Meyers film, from the nostalgic 1990s interiors “The Parent Trap” to the coastal cottages in “Something’s Gotta Give” and “It’s Complicated” in the early 2000s. While each set has its own flair, the true sign of her signature style is an elevated sense of comfort and character (especially in the kitchen). 

If you’ve been inspired by the latest rom-com decor trend, and want to give your space an upgrade with a bit of that same magic, you might want to start with your IKEA couch. Instead of settling for the mass-produced appeal of an IKEA sofa, consider a DIY upgrade with a gingham couch cover either by using pre-made covers or a relaxed drop cloth. Comfort is at the heart of this aesthetic, and in every living space, couches are the focal point of all things comfortable. Character is also a major component, often achieved through the use of traditional, charming patterns. Gingham is the perfect example, but instead of ditching your entire couch for a bold new design, a DIY couch cover lets you personalize the look and easily create the perfect upgrade for your space.

Slipcovered sofas are a staple in the Nancy Meyers design universe, and gingham is the perfect, trendy pattern to give your space some character. One of the best tips for styling gingham is to be mindful of your color choices — a palette that includes white with soft shades of blue or subtle neutrals aligns best with this aesthetic. There are so many different variations of gingham, but for a chicer and more understated look, fine-scale gingham offers the perfect balance of texture and modern appeal, while larger patterns might feel too loud for this soft, cozy style. 

Sewing your own covers from scratch can be intimidating, but luckily you can find tons of fabric patterns from brands that make covers to revitalize your IKEA sofa and replace the covers yourself. The beauty of this aesthetic is its relaxed, imperfect feel. So, if a perfectly fitted couch cover is a bit too neat for your taste, consider utilizing a DIY gingham drop cloth cover instead. 

Start by removing the cushions and vacuuming the couch thoroughly, then simply drape the cloth over the frame, smooth it out, and tuck the extra fabric into the crevices. Line it up with the sofa’s edges, then adjust and secure the fabric with some slipcover tuck grips. This no-sew approach creates a slouchier style for that inviting, character-rich look found in Meyers’ best rom-coms.