Dorm Style

I'm going to be really original for a moment and do a kind of "Back to school," university edition. I'm starting my second year at university, living on-campus, so I thought I'd share some of the things I think are needed in a dorm setting, plus some things I think would just be awesome.

Must Haves:

At very least, a calender is important. I think the bigger the better. They come in all kinds of designs so make a big calender a decoration in your room and keep up with all your school assignments and social events!
I like this one from Pottery Barn Teen

If you're allowed a mini-fridge, coordinate with your roommate and try to get one. I have the one pictured above and I really love it. It's so handy for left overs and the separate freezer means ice cream is easy to keep. I got this one at Target last year and it's still in stock online.

Life in a dorm is a life of little space. I got a storage thing similar  to this and ended up dedicating most of the drawers to food items that needed to be in the fridge. These can be found at most any super store. The above is from Target.

A desk lamp is absolutely essential. Some dorms may come with them, mine did not. I got one to clip to the side of my bed or desk and I hate it. I'm getting one similar to the picture this year. These lovely things are the easiest way to make life comfortable for both roommates. This one's from Target.

I've purposely left out the things no one forgets (ie: pillows, blankets, laptop/computer, etc.) These are the things I pick up after moving in and realizing I needed them.


Killer Personalization:

Most dorm rooms come with a bed, a desk, mirror, desk chair, and dresser. That doesn't leave much room for guests, so a fold-up lounger would be perfect for friends and easy to store. I really want to get this one from Pottery Barn Teen.

I only have posters in my room that I put up with command strips, but I think these wall decals would make an amazing touch to a dorm room. The above is from Target and they have them in all shapes and sizes and for all genders!

I really really want one of these in my room. Not only does it leave another surface to be customized, but it also has the inside to hold books, and as we know, I love books. This is one from Target

These loungers are absolutely priceless! It's so easy to lean back on one of these in bed to watch a movie or read a book for a class. I'm sure you can get these at most stores with bedding departments, but the one pictured above is from Target.

Area rugs are great and functional. They are easy quick personalization to make your room look more cozy while they also protect your feet from the cold tile of the dorm floor! I don't have one for my room, but I plan to get one. This one is from Pottery Barn Teen.

And that's all the tips I've got for you. If you're going into your first, or any other, university year, I hope it goes great and good luck!

What are/were your dorm must-haves?