
Remember the Friends episode when Monica and Chandler decided to live together, and then Monica realized she would...actually have to put his stuff in her apartment? Sure, a relationship is nice, but a home filled with your stuff and your stuff only? A dream that's becoming a reality for an increasing number of women.
When Marie Claire and House Beautiful teamed up to discover women's home-buying habits, research proved that marriage or partnership isn't a prerequisite for women to invest in their own space. In fact, single women made up 17 percent of home buyers in 2019, according to the National Association of Realtors—purchasing their first house at an average cost of $166,370 compared to $180,570 for men. Yes, this means women are bucking years of societal standards that have convinced us we need to have a partner to buy our own place, and it means we're refusing to compromise our #aesthetic for anybody else, which is arguably the best feeling of all.
For the new home buyers out there who just signed those closing papers, let the fun begin. Get inspired by our top home decor picks, below, which includes necessities for the kitchen, bedroom, living room, and bathroom (okay, and some non-essentials...shower wine glass holders do exist). They may not exactly match your taste, but consider this list a starting point for the items you've somehow convinced yourself you could go without over the years.
Tip: Instead of wasting precious space on a nightstand, invest in a gorgeous floor lamp that will take care of that awkward empty corner of your room.
Tip: Your plates and dishes don't have to match perfectly. Start with a fun set of plates, and keep the silverware, cups, and dishes minimal. Also, a fresh cup of coffee in a boob mug will cure any bad mood.
Tip: The living room sets the tone for the house. Have fun showcasing your gorgeous coffee table books and light up that delicious-smelling Voluspa candle.
Tip: The great towel debate (opens in new tab) lives on, but regardless, a woman's bathroom should feel like her personal sanctuary. You don't have to have your entire makeup collection organized, but you should at least have a place to store it, like this Gucci cosmetics case.
Tip: An accent chair can easily complete a living room, and a silk pillowcase can give you your best hair yet. Choose wisely.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
subscribe here (opens in new tab)
Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.
-
A Celebrity Colorist Explains Why You Should Always Wash Your Hair After Coloring It
Every color needs a good cleanse.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
Lizzo's Game-Changing Eyebrow Hack Is About to Revamp Your Makeup Routine
She also gave us a peek inside her makeup bag.
By Samantha Holender
-
This Is the Only Dry Shampoo That Makes My Hair Feel Clean—Not Crunchy
Bonus: It’s only $8 per bottle.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 11 Best Inflatable Pools for Your Hot Girl Summer
This one's a scorcher.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
21 Cute Notebooks for To-Do Lists and Journaling
Ditch the Notes app for now.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Chic Puzzles for Adults That Will Help Ease Your Mind for a Bit
So cute you'll want to frame 'em.
By Rachel Epstein
-
13 Luxury Advent Calendars to Get You in the Holiday Spirit
24 days of truffles? Say less.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Gifts Under $20 That Are Meaningful and Affordable
From artwork to books to donations on their behalf.
By Rachel Epstein
-
26 Coffee Table Books to Liven Up Your Living Room
You know, since that's where we spend most of our time these days.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Emma Roberts on the Freedom of Plastic-Free Living: "It Just Feels Good"
The actress challenged herself to not use plastics for a week in partnership with Grove Collaborative.
By Julia Gall
-
16 Sustainable Product Swaps to Make Your Home More Green (And More Chic)
You aren't trashy, so don't let your household be.
By Julia Gall