Things every girl needs for her first apartment

The first time you move out and try to make it on your own is exciting! It’s thrilling! It’s totally and utterly terrifying in the deepest way possible! While nothing can save you from the initial shock of being an adult, these decorating tips will at least help you get off to a good start with your first apartment.

A girl’s first kitchen may not be anything fancy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. Pick neutral decor that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Buy storage canisters to feel like a real adult who has real food and real places to put it. Also, make sure you have lots of cereal bowls. You will need cereal bowls.

Our picks: Glass canisters (Crate and Barrel, $60), bowls (Anthropologie, $30), place mat (Ikea, $4), oven mitt (Ikea, $2), dish towel (Ikea, $1), teapot (Bed Bath & Beyond, $54), table and chairs (Ikea, $169)

Your living room should be functional as well as chic. Use bookcases to showcase your personality and grownup behavior — “Hey, look, I display things I like instead of putting them in piles.” Pick a comfortable couch, because you know your friends will be crashing on it, and often. (Bonus points for a sleeper couch!) Throw in a clock for the ultimate “Yes, I’m in charge of my life and adulthood” touch. Hello, first living room.

Our picks:Pillow (Urban Outfitters, $34), print (Urban Outfitters, $24), rug (Urban Outfitters, $109-$329), clock (Bed Bath and Beyond, $25), bookcase (Urban Outfitters, $169), sleeper sofa (Urban Outfitters, $749), side table (Urban Outfitters, $78)

Your bedroom will be your safe haven, your escape from crazy roommates, your place all to yourself (thank heavens!). Let your personality shine through as you decorate, and feel free to go a little wild. Dramatic full-length mirror for personal fashion shows? Check. Quirky jewelry organizer to prevent future chaos? Check, check. One billion pictures of family and friends and Ryan Gosling? Check, check, check.

Our picks:Jewelry holder (Amazon, $12), mirror (Pier 1, $240), bed frame (Ikea, $100), lamp (Ikea, $119), blanket (Anthropologie, $188), photo holder (Urban Outfitters, $8), duvet cover (Urban Outfitters, $79-$89)

More things apartment

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How to decorate your apartment on a budget
Tips for apartment storage