Photo by Vlada Karpovich
Knowing your design style is key to creating a space where you feel comfortable and happy. Many decor styles have been identified, so it can be confusing to know which suits you best. To keep it simple, we’ve identified three common styles that are also popular among college students. Don’t worry if you identify with more than one of these styles- there’s no rule against mixing items from different aesthetics. Read on for decorating ideas for your dorm or apartment based on your style preferences.
Bohemian and Eclectic
If you have a bohemian and eclectic style, you prefer a wide range of colors, patterns and decorative items. You’re style blends old and new, and is not predictable. You like a mix of styles and don’t want to be confined to one particular color scheme or design aesthetic.
Styleonme Moon Macrame Wall Pediments
A staple of boho design, these macrame wall pendants offer a relaxing and dreamy feel to any room. These work anywhere – bedroom, living or office space. And you can choose from a variety of colors.
Beige White Ceramic Vase Set
This simple four piece vase set makes the perfect base for any decorative display, whether monochromatic or colorful.
Lush Decor Royal Empire Quilt Striped Pattern Reversible 3 Piece Bedding Set
For a colorful and bold bedding choice, the lush decor bedding set is ideal. The set offers 6 different color/pattern choices and fits full, queen or king mattresses.
KIBAGA Beautiful Boho Shower Curtain
The KIBAGA shower curtain is great for boho, eclectic or modern design styles. It makes a great statement piece for your bathroom.
HYMELA N02 Boho Rattan Table Lamp Natural Style
The HYMELA rattan lamp makes the perfect decor for your boho bedroom, living room or office area. It offers touch control, dimmable wood and a usb port.
XUOIAYNB Abstract Boho Wall Art Prints
These boho prints are perfect for over the sofa or bed. The simple yet beautiful designs will pull any room together.
MADE BY LUCKY Jewelry Dish Trinket Dish Ring Dish Ceramic Hamsa Evil Eye Hand
Keep your favorite jewelry handy and on display in this beautiful boho jewelry dish. The design well fits into a boho or eclectic space. It can also be used to hold keys, coins or other trinkets.
SONGMICS Hanging Chair, Hammock Chair with Large, Thick Cushion, Boho Swing Chair
Who doesn’t love a hanging chair? This amazing boho chair offers comfort and style for your space. Unlike many hanging chairs, the cushions are thick and rings are strong and durable for secure support. It comes in four neutral color schemes.
Ultra Soft Pre-Washed Quilted Throw Blanket
Everyone needs a good throw blanket. The soft quilted throw from HORIMOTE HOME comes in a variety of colors and is made of 100% microfiber. It’s also pre-shrunk for maximum durability.
Macrame Cushion Case, Woven Boho Cushion Cover
The macrame throw pillow covers form KOZYLAND make a good addition to a boho space. The covers are made of burlap material and tassels craftsmanship. They are breathable, stain and wrinkle resistant.
Boho Living Room Rug 5’x7′ Washable Cotton
A nice area rug pulls any room together. STARUIA offers a simple and gorgous boho/eclectic design in this washable cotton rug. It not only comes in six sizes but also three neutral colors.
blue page Boho Neutral Decorative Unstuffed Pouf Cover
A nice pouf adds texture and comfort to any space. This boho style pouf cover from blue page is sure to work for a boho living area. And it comes in a variety of colors including khaki, yellow and pink.
KOUFALL Warm Taupe Sheer Curtains
Curtains are another must-have for making your space feel homey. These boho style curtains come in a variety of sizes to fit any window and several colors.
Modern and Minimalist
A modern and minimalist space is mostly about functionality, featuring minimal yet stylish touches and neutral colors. Bold patterns and bright colors are not commonly seen in a modern and minimal space. However, many bohemian features and patterns overlap with the modern and minimalist decor style.
LED Table Lamp, 3-Levels Dimmable Touch Lamp
This functional, sleek LED lamp is great for a minimalist. It has three dimmable levels and touch control.
Lufeiya Small Computer Desk
For a modern or minimalist look, a sleek desk is essential. The Lufeiya small computer desk fits with a modern or minimal decor style. And at less than $50*, it’s a steal compared to similar desks.
Acrylic Office Desk Organizer with Drawer
My Space Organizers’ desk organizer has room for all your office essentials and sleek, simple design for a modern office. It comes in black, grey, white marble and clear. A drawer and several storage compartments will ensure your desk stays clean and free of clutter.
Arched Full Length Mirror with Stand
A large sleek black mirror makes a great statement piece for a modern and minimalist space. This mirror NISHCON is shatterproof and has an explosion proof membrane. It comes in three sizes to fit any area or room.
Williamsburg Minimalist Stripe Indoor Farmhouse Area-Rug
Rugs can set the tone for a room depending on design. A simple stripe rug works gives a minimalistic feel to any room. This rug from Jonathan Y makes a great addition to a minimalist or boho room.
Black and White Throw Blankets, Knitted Modern Patterned Throw Blanket
The soft and lightweight black and white pattern throw blankets from ELASAD are great for living or bedroom. Choose from different patterns and sizes. They also make great gifts for almost any person or occasion.
TERESA’S COLLECTIONS Black and White Vases for Decor, Modern Ceramic Vase
Nothing is more modern and minimalist than TERESA’s COLLECTIONS Black and White modern ceramic vases. These sleek vases can be used anywhere to make a bold yet simple statement.
Topfinel Corduroy Oversized 4 Pillow Covers Euro Sham Set
Grey, black and white are commonly found in minimalist and modern decor. These throw pillow covers come in a set with grey solid gradient colors. The covers come in oversized, medium and standard size. Pick up some inserts and you’ll have modern great additions to any sofa, bed or chair.
CangLong Modern Stylish Chair Set
Looking for the perfect modern or minimalist chairs? The Canglong chair set is perfect for dining rooms, home office, or living area. The chairs have a plastic cushion and are ergonomically designed to support the back.
Foduuo Framed Canvas Wall Art, Set of 3
These modern and minimal prints bring character to a room without making it feel busy. The prints come ready to hang, including hanging hardware. At around just $35, it’s an affordable choice for students that looks much more expensive.
Cozy and Traditional
Traditional designs include florals, stripes and plaids. A traditionally cozy dorm or apartment includes pillows, plants, string lights and thick rugs. This design scheme is probably what comes to mind when you think of a standard college dorm or first apartment.
Der Rose Set of 6 Succulents Plants
The Der Rose succulent plant makes any space more cozy. Put them throughout your room or apartment to add a touch of nature indoors.
Photo Clip 17Ft – 50 LED Fairy String Lights
Fairy lights create a relaxing ambience. Fairy lights with photo clips provide a dual function – cozy lighting and displaying special moments.
Floralux Ultra Soft Indoor Modern Shag Area Rugs
A fluffy rug is a must-have for any space. It adds warmth and comfort to your living space. Pair it with soft blankets, pillows and fairy lights for the ultimate cozy retreat.
Dolicer 6 Strands 42Ft Fake Vines for Bedroom
Add a touch of nature with these fake vines. Paired with some plants (fake or artificial) these give a peaceful and relaxing vibe.
Pooqla LED Marquee Letter Lights Sign
Personalize your dorm or apartment with light up letter sign. These add nice ambience lighting and serve as statement pieces.
Geniospin Twin Comforter Set 6 Pieces
Cute and comfortable bedding is important, particularly in small spaces such as dorm rooms. This Geniospin bedding set has a pom tufted design and comes in five colors and four sizes.
Hyde Lane Luxury Blush Faux Fur Throw Pillow Covers
Fluffy throw pillows are part of classic dorm and apartment decor. Hyde Lane pillow covers are faux fur and offer a luxurious look for a college student budget.
GENTLE DEER Wall Art Frame Canvas Prints
These prints from GENTLE DEER are great for lovers of traditional art. You can choose from several of Van Gogh’s works printed on premium canvas.
Chill Sack Bean Bag Chair
A large and comfortable bean bag chair is great for a college student’s space. It’s less expensive and much more fun than traditional furniture. The chill sack bean bag chair is big enough for comfortable lounging and comes in a wide variety of colors.
Most of the items above work for any style. But the categorizations can help guide you in creating a space that matches your personality and design goals.
*costs at time of publication