by Meaghan Branham

lifestyle-big-screen-inspirationAs awards season winds down with the Academy Awards, so does my annual mad rush to watch as many of the year’s critically-acclaimed movies as humanly possible. It’s a process I’ve gone through every year since I was about 12 (and not actually allowed to watch most of the nominees); an attempt to make sure that I’m not completely out of the loop when they give out those little gold statues. Where this movie obsession came from, I’ll never know for sure, but I have a feeling it stems from lively film discussions at nearly every family gathering that instilled in me a need to be well versed in movie references. Regardless, my love for films, from the good to the so-bad-it’s-good, has only grown through the years. My favorites always manage to find ways to inspire me in every way imaginable, including my decorating obsessions. Some films are just so visually striking that I can’t help but want to borrow a bit from them, and some characters so fabulous that I’m desperate to mimic their style. Here I’ve included some of my favorite films to watch when I’m looking for some inspiration.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Everything about the 1961 film adaptation of Truman Capote’s novel is iconic: The apartment, the style, the music, and of course, Audrey Hepburn. Hepburn’s character, Holly Golightly, lives in an apartment that seems as effortlessly glamorous as Golightly herself. This sort of accidental, minimalist chic décor includes the unforgettable bathtub couch, a zebra rug, her suitcase set, stacked and ready to muffle the sound of any telephone that dared try to wake her… and not much else.

Do: If you prefer simplicity and minimalism, take a cue from Holly with just the essentials in unique styles that make an impression and serve a purpose.

Because I Said So

There’s just something about Michael Lehmann’s 2007 romantic comedy that I keep coming back to, like comfort food. It might be the reliable rom-com plot or Diane Keaton’s circle skirts, but there’s something to be said for the décor, too. The protagonist, Milly, has an especially enviable kitchen: think the Nancy Meyers kitchens we all know and love, but with a more bohemian and eclectic touch. Warmer tones, open shelving, and (more realistically) a little more organized chaos. Oranges, reds and yellows make up the main color scheme, with mod mixed and matched accessories throughout.

Do: Open shelving is gaining popularity right now, creating a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, and giving you the chance to show off your beautiful dinnerware.

Pride and Prejudice

The sweeping landscapes, ornate décor, Georgian era wardrobe, and musical score come together beautifully in Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation of the Jane Austen novel. While some may prefer the grander interior design style of the Mr. Darcy set, the Bennet’s estate has its own charms. It may be a bit less kept up, but the rich blues on the walls and airy creams and whites used in other parts of the décor create a romantic and classic feel. The English countryside provides countless shots of beautiful greenery, incorporated with vases of flowers and potted plants sprinkled throughout the rooms of the home.

Do: Bringing in those elements of nature, from fresh flowers to succulents or other greenery, brightens and freshens a room instantly, and would make Lizzie Bennet proud.