College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won’t Break The Bank

by Sunday, June 19, 2022

With everything you have to spend on for school, college dorm ideas included, I’m sure decor is the last thing on your mind. But don’t underestimate the power of a few personal touches here and there! Decor can easily turn your dorm into a warm, inviting space that feels just like home. If you’re in search of college dorm ideas that are light on the pocket but big on design, read on!

College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won’t Break The Bank

Decorating Your Dorm Doesn’t Have To Be Pricey

I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to really make your dorm room a personal and homey space! Even if you won’t be in college forever, it’s one of the busiest and possibly most stressful times of your life (in a good way, I hope!). So your dorm room isn’t just a place to sleep in—it’s a sanctuary, and it’s your new home. College dorm ideas are a dime a dozen these days, but some of them can be way over budget. But I want to help you get the dorm room of your dreams, so I’ve found some inexpensive college dorm ideas that are chic and stylish.

 

1. Metal Planter, $16

Plants can instantly add color and life to a room, so they’re one of my favorite college dorm ideas! Metal is very trendy right now, so these gold and copper planters are a stylish touch.

 

2. Indoor Bonsai Tree Kit, $16

If you have a bit of a green thumb, why not try out this bonsai kit? I love the interactive part, and planting or taking care of a plant can be very relaxing!

 

3. Photo Frame, $0.99

Photo Frame | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Ikea

This is one of the most inexpensive college dorm ideas I’ve seen so far—just 99 cents! These photo frames from Ikea are double-sided, so you can display two photos at a time. Definitely a great steal!

 

4. Collage Frame, $8

Collage Frame | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Ikea

If you don’t have time to create your own gallery wall, Ikea has got your back. For $8, this is a steal! You can paint the frames or decorate them with washi tape for a more personal touch.

 

5. DIY Beauty Dock

If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to DIY some of your own college dorm ideas. This beauty dock is one of those space-saving college dorm ideas no one will think you made yourself.

 

6. DIY Dowel Ladder

There are a lot of DIY college dorm ideas out there! This ladder is also a fun project you can do with your roommate to bond and get to know each other better.

 

7. Wooden Letters, $22

Wooden Letters | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Anthropologie

I know practically every dorm room has wooden letters, so you need to find new ways to stand out! These unique wooden letters from Anthropologie are a bit of splurge (still affordable though!), but I say they’re worth it.

 

8. Posters, $14.99

Posters | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Cotton On

Posters are no-fuss college dorm ideas that are easy to put on your wall, switch around, and take off. I love the selection of posters at Typo!

 

9. Hard Wood Dry Erase Calendar, $18

Hard Wood Dry Erase Calendar | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Dormify

This hardwood dry erase calendar is such a unique and ingenious find! Wood gives you a warm and homey feel as well, so this is perfect for your dorm room.

 

10. Alarm Clock, $8.99

Alarm Clock | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Ikea

Alarm clocks are one of those essential college dorm ideas. If I need to get up early, I prefer a classic alarm clock instead of my phone. It’s also another decor opportunity you should take to really show off your personality!

 

11. Confetti Dots Decals, $15

Confetti Dots Decals | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Dormify

If you’re not allowed to paint your walls or install wallpaper, decals should be your go-to college dorm ideas. These silver polka dots are so chic and cute!

 

12. Stealth Shelf, $20

Stealth Shelf | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Dormify

If you’re looking for space-saving college dorm ideas, these shelves are one of them. I love how you can use both sides!

 

13. Charging Station Lamp, $24

Charging Station Lamp | College Dorm Ideas: Dorm Decor Picks That Won't Break The Bank

image via Dormify

Other space-saving college dorm ideas include this lamp that doubles as a charging station. It’s functional and stylish.

 

Watch this video from HGTV Handmade for more college dorm ideas:

 

I hope these affordable college dorm ideas inspire you to personalize your space this year. Happy decorating!

 

Want more college dorm ideas? Check these out! What decor will you be using in your dorm? Let me know in the comments section!

 

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Featured Image via Teen Vogue

Originally posted on September 23, 2016 @ 12:33 AM

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