College is just around the corner, so it’s time to start thinking about what your new home will look like. The goal is to create a hip home away from home that you can chill in after a long day of classes. Finding the right stuff to create a cozy living space that lets your unique personality shine can be more than overwhelming. Then comes the real challenge: the cost. Fear not, we did the shopping for you, finding everything that you need — from bedsheets that will put a smile on your face to statement lighting that will make your space the envy of the floor — all without breaking the bank. ? [email protected]
Wake up with a smile: In a small room, a bed makes a big statement, so get statement bedding. Ikea graphic print duvet cover made of sustainably grown cotton, $24.99 ikea.com and Chinatown Market X Smiley sheet set $99, urbanoutfitters.com
Brighten things up: Amped & Co’s Pac-Man ghost light glows yellow with white eyes when you turn it on. $69.99, nordstrom.com
Get a quick pick-me-up: No time to hit the campus coffee shop? Keurig’s K-Mini single-serve coffee maker is a lifesaver. $69.99, amazon.com
No cold floors: Make a graphic statement with Ikea’s Fornyad area rug. The image is a cartoon figure named Darcel. $89, ikea.com
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Smile, you just aced Bio 101: Urban Outfitters’ embroidered cotton Winky pillow makes a statement wherever it sits. $39, urbanoutfitters.com
Keep them guessing: What is it? Who knows, but these graphic posters created by Sam Kemp for Ikea will give your room instant edge. $6 for two, ikea.com
The quick cleanup: Between a heavy course load and your very active social life, who has time for laundry? Love Home And Planet’s Re-Wear Dry Wash Spray refreshes and unwrinkles clothing between washes. $23.97, amazon.com
Look for pieces that do double — or triple duty: Ikea’s bright yellow wood mirror also has a shelf and hooks to keep track all of those little things that you can never find. $59.99, ikea.com
Rethink your walls: Give your dorm room a rustic vibe with removable peel and stick red brick wallpaper. $47, pbteen.com.
Stay on trend: Tie-dye rocked summer fashion. Now bring the look to your dorm with Target’s rainbow denim beanbag. $94, target.com
Lighten up: It’s Taco Tuesday every day when you have Pottery Barn’s LED taco string lights. $12.99, potterybarn.com
Laundry day just got a little easier: Emily & Meritt’s Wash Me laundry backpack says it all, and makes the dreaded trek to the laundry room a little easier. $24, pbteen.com
Get the party started: Amped & Co’s portable lantern and bluetooth speaker adds instant party vibes to any get-together with a color-changing orb speaker that wirelessly streams tunes. $110, nordstrom.com
