The Step-by-Step Guide to Decorating Your Living Room From Scratch

If you have ever wondered where to splurge and where to save when it comes to living room decor, here is your answer! Kara advises, "When you're starting from scratch on furnishing a living room, the best place to invest is in good, quality upholstery. Buy the best you can afford in classic shapes and upgrade on your cushioning and quality fabric so it will last for years to come." Kara also notes that if you buy for quality the first time around, you won't have to worry about replacing these foundational pieces a few years down the road after some wear and tear.

And as far as color and print for these bigger-ticket items? Kara says, "Keep those foundation pieces neutral and simple and you can easily layer in color and pattern in smaller doses."