The Homebody
Written By : Hannah Corbett
I love going out just as much as the next person. I love the buzz of a crowded room, the clink of glasses, the thrill of a good cocktail in hand. I hate walking into an empty restroom. There’s nothing worse than that. And yet… I am also the epitome of a homebody.
I never had a party phase. I turned 21 during COVID, which means my “first legal drink” story is more like: me in my backyard with my friends, opening a bottle of wine and wondering when we can put on our pajamas while we drink. Not exactly legendary. And honestly, That’s fine by me.
I’ve always loved being home. Comfy clothes. Cup of tea. Good movie. My dog curled at my feet. And I am set. My friends and I used to prefer nights in: a bottle of wine (or two), and an old 2000’s rom com. We’d talk over the movie until we fell asleep. And to me, that’s all I really needed on a weekend.
Why do homebodies get a bad rap? Who decided that staying in is boring? I’ll tell you who: people who’ve never experienced the thrill of opening a bottle of wine in the comfort of your own home—the one you pay rent for with your boyfriend and your dog—while wearing Dairy Boy PJ’s. That’s a perfect night, if you ask me. No line at the bar, no crowded room, no small talk with strangers. Just you, your space. And maybe a little indulgence.
So here’s my question: is it really so bad to love both worlds? The energy of a night out, the cocktails and the chatter, and the quiet comfort of a night in? Can a girl not crave both the loudness of the crowd and the cozy intimacy of home? Being a homebody doesn’t mean missing out—It’s carving out a space. There’s a kind of thrill in the soft glow of your living room, a cup of tea in hand, with good conversation or a Nancy Meyers movie playing in the background, that’s every bit as intoxicating as a night out.
1. Romanticize the ritual.
Going out always has a ritual: getting ready, choosing the outfit, ordering the drink. Bring that same energy home. Light a candle, put on a playlist, pour yourself a glass of wine or tea into your nice glassware. Even if it’s just you, your dog, and Something’s Gotta Give, the ritual makes it feel special.
2. Create a “night in” menu.
The thrill of a bar is often in the food and drinks. So make your own lineup. Maybe it’s DIY popcorn with fancy toppings, a grazing board, or your favorite Trader Joe’s frozen apps that you plate like they came from a restaurant. Bonus points if you theme it to the movie you’re watching.
3. Host your own “cozy club.”
Instead of fighting for a spot at a crowded bar, invite a couple of friends over for a curated night in. Think: pajama dress code, a stack of DVDs (or Netflix log-in), and a shared dessert. Everyone brings something to snack on.
4. Lean into hobbies.
Being a homebody isn’t just about lounging—it’s about reclaiming your space for things you love. Pick up knitting, painting, baking, writing, or even puzzling. There’s nothing like discovering you can lose hours to a hobby that brings you joy, without leaving your couch.
5. Indulge in cozy luxury.
Invest in little upgrades that make being home feel elevated: plush slippers, silk pillowcases, soft throws, or pajamas that make you feel like Cameron Diaz in The Holiday. Home should feel like the chic boutique hotel you never want to check out of.