Ever found yourself watching a Nancy Meyers movie and thinking, I could move into that kitchen tomorrow? Same. There’s something about those sunlit spaces, soft throws, and perfectly worn-in furniture that just feels like home.
The best part? You don’t need a movie set or a Hollywood budget to get the look. I’ve found some of my favorite “Nancy Meyers” pieces digging through local thrift shops.
With a little creativity and an eye for charm, you can build that cozy, lived-in elegance one vintage candlestick or overstuffed armchair at a time.
1. Chunky Knit Throws
Nothing says “curl up with me” quite like a chunky knit throw draped casually over a sofa arm. Thrift stores often hide these textural treasures among linens and bedding sections.
Look for cream, oatmeal, or soft gray colors that whisper rather than shout. When you find one, give it a gentle squeeze test – the softer and heavier, the better!
2. White Ceramic Pitchers
If walls could talk in Nancy’s world, they’d probably gossip about the white ceramic pitcher collection. Standalone or filled with hydrangeas, these vessels bring instant charm.
Scour thrift store shelves for various heights and shapes. Some might have tiny chips that add character – embrace them! Mix different whites together for that collected-over-time look that screams Meyers magic.
3. Vintage Copper Cookware
Hanging copper pots transform ordinary kitchens into culinary sanctuaries worthy of Meryl Streep in “It’s Complicated.” Though pricier than other thrift finds, patient hunting pays off.
Look beyond the tarnish – a bit of copper polish works wonders! Even a single pot makes a statement. Sometimes the best pieces hide in the back of crowded shelves or arrive on days when the store restocks.
4. Linen Tablecloths
Wrinkles welcome! The slightly rumpled quality of linen tablecloths creates that effortless elegance Nancy’s characters pull off at impromptu dinner parties.
Natural tones work best – think oatmeal, flax, or soft white. Feel the fabric between your fingers; real linen has a distinct texture that improves with washing.
Even stained pieces deserve a second look – they often clean up beautifully with natural remedies.
5. Wicker Baskets
Where would a Nancy Meyers kitchen be without strategically placed wicker baskets? They’re practical magic – hiding clutter while adding texture.
Round, square, tall, or squat – grab whatever speaks to you. Place them under console tables, beside sofas, or atop refrigerators.
Fill them with magazines, throw blankets, or nothing at all. The natural material brings warmth to white spaces.
6. Blue And White Porcelain
Nancy’s characters casually display collections that look curated over decades. Blue and white porcelain pieces – whether Chinese ginger jars or transferware plates – nail this vibe.
Mix patterns freely! Group smaller pieces on bookshelves and larger ones on mantels. Even a single striking piece makes an impact.
When hunting, check for hairline cracks by gently tapping – a clear ring means it’s solid.
7. Oversized Cutting Boards
Whether leaning against backsplashes or lying flat on islands, substantial wooden cutting boards add rustic warmth to pristine kitchens. Thrift stores often have these gems hiding among housewares.
Look for boards with rich patina and minor battle scars – they tell a story! Bread boards with handles make excellent wall decor. Wood types don’t matter much, though maple and walnut tend to age most beautifully.
8. Antique Silver Frames
Family photos in tarnished silver frames populate every surface in Nancy’s world. The slightly oxidized finish feels more authentic than shiny new versions.
Grab odd-sized frames whenever you spot them – the mismatched quality creates that collected-over-time feeling. Don’t worry about perfect condition. Slight dents add character! Group them on console tables or mantels for maximum impact.
9. Glass Canisters
Clear glass canisters holding pasta, flour, or cookies create that lived-in luxury vibe essential to Nancy’s kitchens. The thrift gods regularly bless stores with these practical beauties.
Look for heavy glass with tight-sealing lids. Different heights create visual interest when grouped together. Fill them with anything from coffee beans to bath salts. Even without contents, they add sparkle to countertops.
10. Straw Market Bags
Remember that iconic scene where the leading lady returns from the farmers market, straw bag bursting with fresh flowers and baguettes? That casual luxury defines the aesthetic.
Thrift stores often have these treasures in home goods or handbag sections. Look for natural materials and sturdy handles.
When not in use, hang them on wall hooks or doorknobs as instant decor that says “I might jet off to Provence any minute.”
11. Cream Ceramic Table Lamps
Lighting makes or breaks a space, and Nancy never misses with substantial ceramic lamps in neutral tones. Thrift stores overflow with these potential gems – they just need fresh shades!
Focus on the base shape rather than the current shade. Chunky, architectural forms in cream, white, or beige work best.
Replace dated shades with simple drum styles in natural linen. Lamps with slight crackling or crazing in the glaze add that perfect vintage touch.
12. Weathered Wooden Stools
Every Nancy Meyers kitchen island needs casually placed wooden stools that look like they’ve witnessed decades of family conversations. Thrift stores regularly receive these humble heroes.
Look for solid construction over perfect appearance. Scratches tell stories! Simple shapes work best – nothing too ornate.
The wood tone should feel natural rather than heavily stained. Even a single stool tucked under a console adds that lived-in layer.
13. Vintage Kitchen Utensils
Wooden spoons with darkened edges from years of stirring speak volumes about a well-loved kitchen. Nancy’s sets always include these character-filled tools displayed in crocks or hanging from racks.
Hunt for wooden-handled whisks, spatulas with slight warping, and rolling pins with beautiful patinas. The minor imperfections tell stories of countless meals.
Group them in ceramic containers or hang them where they’re easily grabbed during impromptu cooking sessions.
14. Soft Watercolor Landscapes
While movie sets feature impressive art collections, Nancy balances statement pieces with humble watercolor landscapes in simple frames. Thrift stores are goldmines for these affordable treasures.
Look beyond dated frames – they’re easily swapped! Soft colors and serene subjects like meadows, beaches, or distant mountains work beautifully.
Amateur paintings often have the most charm. Group smaller pieces gallery-style or let one larger piece command attention.
15. Earthenware Mixing Bowls
Those perfectly imperfect ceramic mixing bowls where Nancy’s characters whip up midnight pancakes or stress-relieving cookie dough? Thrift stores have their cousins waiting to be discovered.
Seek out bowls with weight and substance. Speckled finishes, subtle glazes, or rustic textures all work beautifully.
Different sizes nest together for display and function. Even bowls with tiny chips deserve rescue – they’re just adding to their story.
16. Vintage Hardcover Books
Nancy’s characters live surrounded by books that look actually read rather than color-coordinated props. Thrift store shelves groan with literary potential waiting for your rescue.
Focus on classics with interesting cloth covers rather than dustjackets. Group them by size rather than color for authenticity.
Stand some upright, lay others flat with small objects on top. The slightly worn appearance suggests a life well-read.
17. Rattan Or Woven Chairs
Whether at dining tables or tucked into corners, Nancy’s spaces always feature natural material seating that adds texture and casual elegance.
Thrift stores regularly receive these gems when people redecorate. Look past current cushions – they’re easily recovered! Check structural integrity by gently testing joints.
Even a single chair makes a statement in a bedroom corner. The natural material brings warmth to predominantly white spaces.