If you love everything autumn, from copper-colored leaves and brisk days to pumpkin spice everything, you’re probably more than ready for a Strega Nona fall—and like so many on TikTok, you’ll want to incorporate all you can about this enchanting (and enchanted) story into your days for a cozy, pasta-filled season.
The newest aesthetic that focuses on comfort and nostalgia (of which there are many) is based on none other than a beloved children’s book, the classic Strega Nona written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola. Published in 1975, it tells the story of the titular character Strega Nona (Grandma Witch), who lives in the Italian town of Calabria and spends her days cooking spaghetti and casting spells to help the troubled townspeople of her village.
TikTok users have become enamored with the warm atmosphere Strega Nona conjures up in her tiny home, and they’re donning headscarves and aprons to recreate her witchy look, making big pots of pasta to feed crowds, and making their homes as snug and cozy as possible.
Creator @dannicapalbo is said to be the creator of Strega Nona September and was interviewed by The New York Times about her viral TikTok post on September 9 that’s received more than 359,000 views and counting. While that may be so, the #streganona hashtag has over 1,000 videos, so the story’s popularity predates the latest trend.
Plus, @badarteveryday has been making videos about the character since about the same time as Dannica. Quoted in the Times, Margaret Duncan (her non-TikTok name) said she’s drawn to Strega Nona with the return of back-to-school season, calling it a “Strega-nona-ssaince.” Others are inspired to indulge their domestic sides and enjoy the simplest pleasures, including knitting, gardening, and pets.
How to Achieve Strega Nona’s Aesthetic at Home
A Strega Nona energy is easy to summon in your home—even without a magic pasta pot.
Get out your largest saucepan for spaghetti, and while you’re at it, make a hearty bolognese to top your noodles. Surround yourself with decor that reflects the Strega Nona color palette, including deep terra cotta, rich blue, warm browns, and earthy tones. Getting a fire going in your fireplace is non-negotiable, and a dark, moody cocktail is just right for a chilly evening, like a Winter Cranberry Sipper or a Spicy Tomato Gin & Tonic.
As Duncan articulated in one of her Strega Nona TikToks, a slightly-messy space is encouraged, as “creativity likes to live among imperfection.” Set out all your knick knacks and knitted creations, embroidery, and antiques. Houseplants and herbs contribute to the overall witchy feel, as you need to have them on hand to be thrown into a potion at any moment.
What’s not to love about Strega Nona, who just wants everyone to feel content? Even when her household assistant, Big Anthony, uses her incantation and accidentally creates a river of spaghetti that flows throughout the town, she uses the mistake as a learning experience for her somewhat clueless helper. One thing’s for sure: We could all use a Strega Nona every now and then.
