As the anticipation surrounding the release of *Practical Magic 2* on 11 September builds, the film’s enchanting aesthetic has found its way into the hearts of social media users, with many striving to recreate its distinctive charm at home. 25-year-old designer and content creator, Sara Parker, recently shared her insights into achieving the beloved ‘Practical Magic’ aesthetic in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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Set against a picturesque coastal backdrop, the Owens house in the first *Practical Magic* film is a captivating space filled with ivy-covered walls, creaky wooden floors, and a flourishing garden replete with herbs for spells and potions. The film’s setting resonates deeply with witchcraft enthusiasts and cottagecore admirers alike, presenting a dreamlike vision that many aspire to emulate.
Parker points out that despite the Owens house’s ethereal beauty, it exudes a sense of effortless warmth and magic. Creating a similar atmosphere in one’s home need not invite chaos or an overly thematic approach. Instead, she advocates for a balance of decorative elements that allows the aesthetic to breathe.
Describing the *Practical Magic* aesthetic, Parker notes its unique blend of gothic and feminine traits. “It’s romantic yet imbued with a kind of witchcraft,” she explains. The matriarchal themes throughout the film add a layer of empowerment, which appeals to a broad audience. Parker believes that this blend provides a fresh perspective that strays from darker, traditional designs often associated with gothic styles.
To soften the mystical elements of decor, Parker suggests incorporating celestial symbols, though she advises against the typical black and deep red tones associated with the gothic genre. Instead, she recommends opting for vibrant colours such as “mystical purples” alongside deep jewel tones which evoke the natural beauty associated with herbology. “Incorporating dry herbs, pressed flowers, and candlelight gives a home that warm, lived-in feel,” she added.
Texture also plays a vital role in creating this soft and magical atmosphere. Heavy fabrics such as velvet can be contrasted effectively with lighter textiles like lace curtains, enhancing the layered appearance of the décor. “It’s all about achieving that comfy-cozy vibe, making it a space people want to curl up in,” Parker stated, emphasising the importance of making one’s home feel intimate.
Achieving a curated yet relaxed space can be challenging, as the aesthetic calls for intentional clutter that tells a story without appearing disordered. “It’s about surrounding yourself with items you love,” Parker notes. She advocates for thoughtful layering, whether it be books, candles, or decorative pieces that foster a sense of history within the space.
While aesthetic maximalism can be visually arresting, Parker underscores the importance of having a cohesive colour palette to keep the space grounded. Select decor arrangements can appear effortless, even when they are meticulously designed. For instance, clusters of glass bottles, adorned with herbs or flowers, can act as both decorative accents and functional items, embodying that idea of ‘living art’.
Lighting is another key factor for embracing the *Practical Magic* aesthetic. Parker advises against harsh lighting, encouraging warm, amber tones with bulbs between 2200 and 2700 Kelvin. She proposes the warmth of candlelight as a harmonious addition to any space, further contributing to that intimate, lived-in feel.
For those keen to evoke the essence of the Owens sisters, Parker suggests tailoring the decor according to their personalities—Sally, for instance, represents a softer, more domestic approach through cooking and floral arrangements, while Gillian leans into a darker, more dramatic aesthetic. “With Gillian, think candlelight and earthy scents,” she explains, illustrating how to channel their distinct vibes without directly replicating every aspect of the film.
Ultimately, capturing the *Practical Magic* aesthetic requires a blend of intentionality, personalisation, and creativity. It is less about recreating the movie set down to the last detail and more about embodying the spirit that makes it so enchanting. The most significant aspect of this aesthetic is personal uniqueness; it’s in the stories and memories attached to the pieces in one’s home that true magic lies.