I love the holidays, but aside from that, winter feels like a pretty useless season in my book. Harsh? Maybe. But I’ll never understand how anyone prefers gray, dreary days spent indoors over summer’s carefree, warm energy. Try as I might, I always find it difficult to embrace winter and not just brood until spring comes around again. That said, I’m tired of writing off an entire three months of the year. So, this winter, I’m changing my outlook by channeling Nancy Meyers as my inspiration.
With her signature cozy-yet-chic aesthetic as my guide, I’m confident I can overcome even the worst case of winter blues. If you’re ready to channel all the Nancy Meyers vibes this season, here are 16 ways I’m turning my winter into a rom-com-worthy experience.
1. Have a cozy craft day
I just know Nancy Meyers’s characters would totally be into cozy winter crafts. I can practically see the montage: yarn and scissors on the table, a snowy window backdrop to set the scene, and a soft pop-girl playlist humming in the background. Even if you’re not the craftiest girl in the group chat, it’s all about doing something fun, cozy, new, and playfully seasonal—regardless of your talent or skill level.
2. Explore local boutiques
On winter weekends when you’re itching to get out—but want something warmer than a park stroll—popping in and out of cute local stores is the perfect Nancy Meyers-coded pastime. No agenda, no shopping mission, just quietly exploring whatever finds you. And who knows, you might just find a cute new treasure for your home or closet. It’s a fun way to get out of the house while tapping into your curiosity and main character energy.
3. Make a simmer pot
If you want your house to smell like a wholesome wintery subplot, a simmer pot is so much more effective than a basic candle. Fill a pot with water and seasonal ingredients like orange slices, cinnamon, and cloves, then let it bubble away on your stovetop to fill your home with sweet seasonal scents. Whether you’re working from home, embarking on a Sunday reset, or hosting friends, it’s an easy way to create a cozy, festive atmosphere.
4. Binge-watch all the Nancy Meyers movies
The best way for any student to become a master is to study. Return to the source material and learn from Nancy herself to complete your transformation. You can do a Nancy Meyers movie marathon solo or turn it into an event with friends. Just make sure the ambiance is cozy: plenty of throw blankets, lit candles, and freshly popped popcorn.
5. Try classic winter activities
Chances are, it’s been years since you’ve participated in winter activities like ice skating, having a snowball fight, or building a snowman. These rom-com staples aren’t just for the screen—they’re genuinely fun. Channel your inner child (and inner Nancy Meyers heroine) by romanticizing classic winter pastimes on a cute winter date, with friends, or by yourself.
6. Arrange a bouquet of seasonal flowers
A bouquet of fresh flowers on the table is a perfect pick-me-up for cold winter days. While a summer in the Hamptons might have its hydrangeas and sunflowers, I just know our girl Nancy Meyers would never miss the chance to lean into a festive winter bouquet moment, too. On your next Trader Joe’s run, grab some fresh eucalyptus, winter berries, and a few of your favorite flowers, then arrange everything in a vase for an easy way to romanticize a winter day.
7. Romanticize cooking a new recipe
Channel a rom-com main character by throwing on a Nancy Meyers-inspired playlist on Spotify, pouring yourself a glass of wine, and cooking a delicious dinner from scratch. Even if your cooking skills aren’t quite on par with Meryl Streep’s character from It’s Complicated, you can still enjoy the immaculate vibes of a cooking dance party. If you’re not up for cooking an entire meal, just bake a sweet treat instead (chocolate croissants, anyone?).
8. Send handwritten cards
While I can’t recall a specific scene in Nancy Meyers’ films where her characters write letters, I just know she would cosign this idea. Handwritten cards are a lost art and perfectly in line with the casual elegance her characters embody. The holidays are the ideal time to break out your stationery, put pen to paper, and let your loved ones know what they mean to you.
9. Find your winter uniform
An essential section of the Nancy Meyers rule book is effortlessly well-styled outfits at all times. In her summery films, this translates to the coastal grandma look. In the winter, it’s the frazzled English woman aesthetic. Kate Winslet in The Holiday is the frontwoman of this archetype, and it’s the style inspo you need to try this season. Don’t let the frazzled part confuse you—she’s still well-dressed, just in a casual, cozy way. A messy bun, cozy cable knit, oversized coat, coffee cup in hand, and leather tote bag overflowing with things are all musts for the look.
10. Revamp your home for the cozy weather
If you’re going to be forced inside for months, you must ensure that your home feels like a sanctuary. With the right ambiance, you won’t even notice it’s been a full day since you stepped outside. In my world, this means plush throw pillows, ultra-soft blankets, and seasonal candles. Surround yourself with the comforts that make your space feel like home.
11. Crack open a new read
Nancy Meyers’ characters are definitely a well-read bunch (I’m basing this purely on vibes and no concrete evidence), and if winter has one thing going for it, it’s the superior reading season. You can snuggle up on the couch with a blanket and binge-read to your heart’s content without worrying about missing out on beautiful weather outside. Whether you love a good romance, a suspenseful thriller, or a sad girl book (same), winter is the best time for unapologetic escapism.
12. Have a game night
Going out is just not it in the winter months. Honestly, it’s not it in general, but at least the cold gives me an excuse to stay cozy indoors. And I know if Nancy Meyers were throwing a girls’ night in, there’d absolutely be some wholesome board games involved. It’s the perfect activity to bring on the giggles, embrace a little friendly competition, and offer a change of pace when those cold, gray days start feeling dull.
13. Take a cozy walk with your favorite beverage
For the cozy winter version of a hot girl walk, throw on a scarf, grab your favorite seasonal latte, and pretend you’re wandering through the plot of The Holiday with Cameron Diaz. Take a walk around your neighborhood, or stroll around your town’s shopping district to admire the twinkly lights and peek into shop windows. Although it might be a bit chilly, a cozy outfit and occasional sips of a warm bev will make getting your steps in much more bearable.
14. Journal your yearly reflections
Nothing will get you reflecting quite like a winter solo night in. As the year winds down, grab a notebook and look back on 2025. List your accomplishments, write about your favorite moments, or manifest what’s to come in 2026. It’s a mindful way to acknowledge the past and set intentions for the future.
15. Host a themed dinner party
I know there are a lot of events happening around the holiday season, but one more dinner party is never a bad idea, especially one with a good theme. This can be an elaborate soirée or a relaxed potluck—either way, it’s such a Nancy Meyers way to catch up with friends or family. The key is preparing a delicious spread, curating a thoughtful playlist, and setting a simple yet elegant table to romanticize the evening.
16. Embrace a slower pace of life
You might not escape to a cozy English countryside cottage like in The Holiday, but you can still channel that relaxed energy. Set aside your to-do list and prioritize moments of stillness. Say yes to fewer plans, ignore rigid schedules, and focus on what feels right for your body and mind.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.
Madigan Will, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.
