Dorm Room Decorating

I still have the pink and yellow Ralph Lauren bedding that I had my first year of college at NYU.

I remember thinking how cute it was and how jealous my room mates would be. Needless to say I was a little deflated when all the hip city kids were spotted with bags full Urban Outfitters decor to dress up their corners. 

I'd like to think if I could go back and do it again, I could and would wow them with my awesome style. Because of this I was thrilled when a reader, Tenia sent out an S.O.S. to a group of bloggers to help shed some light on ideas for dorm room decorating. Jamie has a list on her blog of all those participating in this fun challenge.  

I thought I would approach this two ways, one with an overall design, and an outline of the basics needed to get you through all those late night cram sessions and term papers. 

So here are my finds:

1. A stylish bookcase:

I love this spine bookcase and we all know college=lots of books

This piece will transition well to a post college pad too!

2. Cute bedding and pillows:

I am head over heels for these zebra crewel pillows, and this chevron quilt is one of my favorite items these days. 

3. Storage:

A great solution to maximize storage in small space is using the space under the bed. These degernes baskets from ikea happen to be a favorite. 

4. Something happy:

I thought this print was a great mantra for those homesick days. 

5. A focal point:

I've loved this Mantadia rug from Anthropologie for a long time. It's crewel so it is lightweight enough that you could even use it at the foot of the bed like a throw. I think it is a great inspiration piece to build the room around. 

6. Pretty curtains:

I opted for something sheer so the daylight hours wouldn't get slept away. 

7. A bulletin board:

A place to post important reminder, due dates and invitations is a must. I loved this inspiration board by Kelly Green. A simple cork board can be purchased at an office supply store and then jazzed up (a great tutorial via Bryn).

8. A cozy place to sit:

Who doesn't love this snazzy ikat chair? A great place to catch up on reading or nibble pizza. 

Another great transition piece for post-college life. 

9. A great dresser:

I've loved suchow apothecary chest for a long time and I think it lends a nice sophistication to dorm life. I just ordered one of these for a client. I can't wait for it to get delivered!

10. Lighting:

The lighting in my dorm room was awful and I swear my bad eyesight developed in college. I love the look and price of this cute little lamp. 

11. Mirror:

A place to check your hair and makeup on the way to class is a must. I love the touch of glamour this adds. 

12. A great desk chair:

I spent far too many late nights glued to the computer in an uncomfortable chair.

I'd opt for something soft and stylish like this lovely chair from Sears. 

So now I'm dying to know, what was your best decorating attempt in college?