This first apartment checklist skips the fluff and gives you everything you need to live your dream life!
Hey bestie,
Picture this: You’re standing in the middle of your very first apartment, surrounded by boxes, a single thrifted lamp, and a vision board that’s basically screaming “main character energy.” Moving into your first place is the moment you decide to stop dreaming about your glow-up and start living it. That’s what your first apartment is all about—your chance to romanticize your life, become that girl, and build a space that’s 100% you. No gatekeeping here—I’m spilling all the tea on my First Apartment Checklist so you can skip the stress and start thriving.
Oh, and before we dive in—want to turn your Pinterest inspo into real-life goals? Grab my free Pinterest to Dream Life Guide! It’s my fave way to help you slay your dream goals this year, one aesthetic vibe at a time. Let’s get into it!
The Vibes Come First: Setting Up Your Dream Space
Your first apartment isn’t just a place to crash—it’s your glow-up headquarters. When I moved in, I knew I wanted it to feel feminine, cozy, and like a total reflection of my dream life. Here’s what you actually need to make that happen:
1. A Bed That Screams “I’m That Girl”
- What You Need: A cute bed frame (I snagged mine from Target’s Opalhouse line—boho vibes!), a comfy mattress (don’t skimp here, bestie), and bedding that’s soft and aesthetic AF (think pastel pinks, florals, or creamy neutrals).
- Why It’s a Must: You deserve to wake up feeling like a queen. I spent weeks hunting for the perfect duvet cover, and now every morning feels like a rom-com montage.
2. Lighting That Sets the Mood
- What You Need: A mix of fairy lights, a thrifted floor lamp, and maybe a cute neon sign with your fave quote (mine says “Glow, babe”).
- Why It’s a Must: Harsh overhead lights? Ew, no thanks. Soft lighting instantly makes your space feel like a Pinterest board come to life. I strung fairy lights around my window, and it’s chef’s kiss every night.
3. A Mirror That Slays
- What You Need: A full-length mirror—bonus points if it’s arched or gold-framed.
- Why It’s a Must: For outfit checks, selfies, and manifesting your best self. I propped mine against the wall, and it’s my daily reminder to glow up and show up.
Kitchen Essentials for the Self-Love Era
I’ll be real: I’m not a Michelin-star chef, but I love romanticizing my mornings with a latte and a cute breakfast. You don’t need a million gadgets—just these basics to feel like a domestic goddess:
4. Coffee or Tea Station
- What You Need: A cheap coffee maker or electric kettle, a cute mug (I have one that says “Hot Mess Express”), and your fave brew.
- Why It’s a Must: Starting your day with a little ritual is peak self-care. My matcha mornings are everything now.
5. Cookware That Doesn’t Suck
- What You Need: A nonstick skillet, a small pot, and a baking sheet (hello, late-night cookies).
- Why It’s a Must: You’ll want to whip up TikTok recipes without crying over stuck scrambled eggs. Trust me, I learned the hard way.
6. Pretty Plates & Utensils
- What You Need: A set of dishes (four is plenty) and some gold or pastel cutlery.
- Why It’s a Must: Eating off cute plates makes even ramen feel bougie. I thrifted mine for $5—score!
Little Luxuries That Level Up Your Life
These are the extras that turn your first apartment into a sanctuary. No fluff, just the good stuff:
7. A Scent That’s You
- What You Need: Candles, a diffuser, or incense—pick something that smells like your dream vibe (I’m obsessed with vanilla and lavender).
- Why It’s a Must: Scent sets the tone. Lighting a candle after a long day feels like a hug from myself.
8. Storage That Slaps
- What You Need: A few cute baskets or a rolling cart for your skincare, books, or random trinkets.
- Why It’s a Must: Clutter kills the vibe. I got a pastel pink cart, and now my space looks curated, not chaotic.
9. A Cozy Corner
- What You Need: A throw blanket, a fluffy pillow, and a spot to chill (even if it’s just a corner of your couch).
- Why It’s a Must: You need a nook to journal, scroll TikTok, or just daydream about your dream life. Mine’s by the window—pure bliss.
Final Thoughts: Make It Yours, Bestie
Your first apartment is where you get to rewrite the rules and live life on your terms. When I moved in, I was overwhelmed, but curating this space turned me into the girl I’d always wanted to be—confident, creative, and totally in love with my life. This checklist isn’t about buying everything at once—it’s about starting small and building a home that grows with you.
Oh, and if you’re ready to stick to those big goals this year (like actually keeping your space cute and organized), check out my Accountability Bestie 12 Week Guided Planner. It’s a daily check-in journal that helps you pick the perfect goal, stay motivated, and actually achieve it in just 12 weeks. Think of it as your hype girl in planner form!
Here’s to glowing up, romanticizing the little moments, and making your first apartment the start of your dream life. You’ve got this, babe!
Xo,
Chelsea Elise
