Top 10 Apartment Decorating Don'ts

"Defining your personal style involves researching the subject of interior design until you find a style, color palette and fabrics you love," says designer Mark McCauley, ASID. You don't have to do all that in your first or even second apartment. Instead, "use your apartment as Frank Lloyd Wright used his home and studio in Oak Park, Ill.: as a place to experiment and try new things. Give yourself a chance to learn what your personal likes and dislikes are." So what if that leather couch turned out not to be the best choice for your apartment living room — it might be fine for a future family room in your home, or make a great donation to a friend (or charity) in need. Apartment life is the time to try on different styles. Be brave, take chances, have fun.