It's basically August, people... which means it's time to bring on the shopping for your new dorm room or apartment. There's something so exciting about decorating a brand new space you'll soon call home. I don't know about the rest of you, but my mind is already going straight to my Pinterest boards for some necessary inspiration.
When it comes to room decor, Pinterest always has our backs. Recently, Pinterest unveiled its 2017 Back to School Report, chock full of ideas to spruce up your new living space. The report features hot dorm room trends and items that will help you get back into the swing of school life. Even though a dorm room can feel impersonal and cold, with just the right essentials, you can easily personalize it to make it just right for you.
Here are the 15 most popular dorm room ideas, according to Pinterest.
1. Marquee Signs And Felt Signs
These marquee signs are all the fad, so you already know they're number one on my back to school list. The customizable letters add a personal touch, so have fun with your message. You can even use it to leave notes for your roommate.
2. Removable Decor
Removable wallpaper is great because there's no chance of it damaging the dorm room walls, and it completely transforms the look of your space. Try an accent wall with a few sheets of removable wallpaper, or pick out a stick-on piece of wall art that captures your personality. Either way, no worries about angry RAs cramping your vibes.
3. String Lights
TBH, string lights never go out of style. There's something so warm, inviting, and chic about them. They're the perfect (and super affordable) decor to lighten up any drab dorm room.
4. Neon Signs
The neon sign trend is cool without even trying. Not only does it create a laid-back kind of a vibe, but it shines a substantial amount of light at night when you're hanging out with your girl squad gossiping. This sign comes in pretty much every color, too, so if bright neons aren't your thing, you can find a pastel that totally works for you.
5. Macrame Wall Hangings
Macrame wall hangings take your space from a dorm room covered in harsh cement walls, to a cozy bohemian paradise within seconds. You can find them in tons of different sizes, and they work perfectly as a faux-headboard, and make a fun statement above your couch. This cozy accent to your room will definitely make you feel right at home.
6. Trendy Room Dividers
In a dorm room or a small apartment, it can feel like everything is out in the open. Whether you're looking for some privacy or just trying to break up some space, room dividers can be a huge help. You can go for a classic foldable room divider, or DIY one yourself using a wheeling clothing rack and house plants.
7. Hanging Decor
Need a little extra space for some clothes or special items? Utilize those water pipes running across your dorm room ceiling to create floating shelves, side tables, and baskets. Not only does the decor add some much-needed space for all of your things, but it also adds a lot of character. The possibilities are endless.
8. Chic House Plants
Just a little bit of greenery can really change the look of your entire dorm room. Use a cactus to brighten up your desk, or get a few larger, low-maintenance plants for a window ledge and near your door. The plants will have your room feeling instantly fresh... just don't forget to take care of them.
9. DIY Drawer Organizers
Drawer organizers are the future of organization inspo, and they can be surprisingly easy to DIY. In such a small space, the organization is a necessity. These will help keep your space neat (and your roommate happy).
10. Cozy Knit Blankets
Not only do these knit blankets look ridiculously comfortable, they also add a layer of coziness to your dorm room. Dress up your bed or your favorite chair with one of these for a super-chic look. Be prepared for lots of visitors.
11. Much-Needed Coffee Bar
Don't waste your time waiting for coffee in that super long line on campus; you'll just be late for class, anyway. Instead, DIY yourself a super cute at-home coffee bar, complete with your favorite flavors and mugs. Add a few cute decor pieces, and you'll have people coming to you for their morning dose of caffeine.
12. Quick, Easy, And Delicious Vending Machine Hacks
Pinterest is full of ideas of how to up your dorm-food game with some easy ingredients you can grab from the vending machine. Pros? You never have to leave your dorm.
13. Omelette In A Mug
Living in the dorms doesn't mean you can't eat good food. You can make a healthy, homemade omelette in just minutes with these delish recipes, a mug, and a microwave. Who even needs the dining hall?
14. Simple One Pot Recipes
Since most dorm room dwellers don't have access to a kitchen, these recipes make it easy to whip up a little something at home. They're especially great for the days when you're short for time; throw a bunch of ingredients into a slow cooker, and it will be ready when you get home. Take that, late-night club meetings,
15. Comfort Food That Reminds You Of Mom's Kitchen
Sometimes, you just need a little reminder of home sweet home. And, let's be honest: Mom's home-cooking always comes in clutch. Whether you're up late studying, or hanging out with friends, this recipe will come in handy. Sub your easy mac for this delicious quinoa mac, and you'll never go back.
