College Life
60 Best Dorm Room Ideas for Girls – The Ultimate Guide
Are you moving into a new dorm room? Decorating your dorm room can make a huge difference to your college experience! Check out this ultimate guide with the best dorm room ideas for girls.
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The start of the semester is coming up, and summer is coming to a bittersweet end. But something you can look forward to is decorating your college dorm room.
If you’re overwhelmed with moving into college, we’ve got you covered. Here are 60 great dorm room ideas for girls.
In this post:
• Beautiful Dorm Room Ideas for Girls
• Dorm Room Essentials for Girls
• Bonus Items Girls Can Add to Their Dorm Rooms
Beautiful Dorm Room Ideas for Girls
Inspirational Wall Art-Gallery Set of 6 Prints
Need some inspiration to keep the hustle? We got you covered. These 6 beautiful Minimalist Inspirational Wall Art Printables are exactly what every college student needs to stay motivated at all times.
They are a perfect and easy way to decorate your dorm. Simply put them close to your desk or bed. They are designed to perfectly fit in a frame.
Students absolutely LOVE them. Multiple sizes included so you have plenty of options to choose from.
1. Boho Wall Art
Make your dorm room a little less drab by creating a wall collage. Use this image for inspiration if boho art is your thing.
You can find a lot of prints to buy online, or make it a fun DIY project and paint some canvases.
It could be a fun activity for you and your roommate!
2. Rainbow Throw Pillows
You may not have a couch in your dorm room like this picture shows, but a color gradient would make for a really cute look for your bed.
Get a neutral colored comforter and sheets. Then, find pillows in an array of colors and arrange them accordingly!
What’s really great about this idea is that there’s a lot of room to play around with a neutral bedspread. Chances are that you won’t get sick of it very quickly.
3. Matching Bedspreads with your Roomie
If you’ll be living in a double, why not coordinate with your roommate?
If you guys can agree on a color scheme, it could be really cute to have matching beds.
It could make the room feel a little less chaotic, so it’s a great dorm room idea for girls.
Although, if you and your roomie have totally different vibes, that’s fine too.
4. Hanging Lights
This is a great dorm room idea for anyone. Order some plain lights or get some colorful ones for a nice pop.
You can hang them over your bed for some nice reading lights.
I wrapped mine around my bookcase. It makes for a cute accent.
5. Dried Flowers
I try to keep flowers everywhere in my apartment, but it can get expensive if you keep having to replace them with fresh ones.
What I like to do is hang bouquets to dry, then place them in vases around my kitchen, living room, and so on.
It’s such a cute dorm room idea for girls; they’re pretty and last a long time!
6. Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals can make for cute bed decorations. It doesn’t have to be your favorite childhood toy either.
Squishmallows are a big thing right now – why not get one?
Throw it on your bed or chair.
7. Inspirational Quotes
You can keep inspirational quotes around your bed as a friendly reminder of your goals or values.
They make for cute decorations. And, although simple, they can make you feel better when you’re feeling down.
8. Map
Maps can make for aesthetically pleasing decorations. Hang up a country or world map if traveling is something you’re passionate about or aspire to do.
Or, a map of your home country or state could be a piece of comfort while you’re away at school.
9. Woven Tapestry
These tapestries are so cute, and if you don’t want to buy one, you can easily make it a DIY project. I made one for my dorm freshman year. Just make sure that it complies with fire safety regulations in your building.
10. Bold Color Pillows
Copy the look!
I’ve always been a fan of adding a pop of color to a room. Some opt for the more monotone look, but I think that bright colors can make any room feel a bit happier. Grab some at your local department store or order some online. Any colors will go great with a neutral bedspread.
Related: 30 Best Dorm Room Ideas You Will Absolutely Need in College
11. Wall Lashes
12. Bulletin Board
Bulletin boards are both decorative and functional. In addition to some cute paintings and prints, I like to keep my calendar and a few sticky notes on my bulletin board. It’s a great way to keep things organized, and it will look really nice on your wall.
13. Cactus Theme
My style is very eclectic, so everything in my apartment is sort of mismatched. But if you want a cohesive look for your dorm room, why not go with the popular cactus theme? It’s a popular dorm room idea for girls right now. The green colors are happy and serene, and it gives you an excuse to keep a lot of plants around the apartment.
14. Minimalist Look
If you’re a neat and organized person, the minimalist look might be what you want. A simple, decluttered room can help you feel calm. Plus, white will never go out of style. You can always easily add color if the look isn't for you!
15. Plants
Plants can be a huge mood booster. They’re nice to look at and fun to take care of. Although, you’ll probably be busy, so maybe go for some easy ones, like succulents or cacti. Keep little pots around your desk, your nightstand, your windowsill, etc.
16. Boho Bedding
The fun thing about a boho look is that it can match without matching. You can have a lot of different patterns, textures, and colors while still maintaining a cohesive look. Just buy the pieces you enjoy, throw them together, and see how it turns out.
17. Monochromatic Look
If you’re having trouble figuring out how to decorate your dorm room, going with a monochromatic look can make it easy. Just choose a color, like green, for instance, and find little green decorations to keep around your room. Posters, pillows, picture frames – they don’t have to be the same shade of green, either.
18. Small Rug
Dorm rooms don’t always have the most appealing carpet or hardwood floors. A cute little area rug can brighten things up a bit. My dorm room wasn’t big my freshman year, but I fit a short runner between my bed and my desk. It definitely made the room feel nicer.
19. Bookshelf
You’ll definitely want shelving of some sort. Small bookshelves are nice if your room doesn’t come with any, and you don’t have to keep books in it, either. Keep snacks on it, little knick-knacks, school supplies, picture frames, etc.
20. Antiques
If it’s your vibe, you should collect a few antique items to create your aesthetic. Stop by a reuse store, or get some items on Amazon. Mirrors, typewriters, cameras, and old bottles can all be cool additions to your room.
21. Storage Ottoman
Storage ottomans can be really useful for storing little items like playing cards. You can keep yours at the foot of your bed or in your living room if you have one. Find a small storage ottoman here on Amazon.
22. Butterfly/Saucer Chair
I got a saucer chair for my dorm freshman year. It was nice to have a place where my friends could sit when we hung out in my room. It also made for a great reading chair. Find some here online; they’re a great addition to any dorm room.
23. Bean Bag Chair
Bean bag chairs are a fun dorm room addition for any girl. They can easily fit in your room with all your other furniture. Grab this one from Amazon – the fabric is really soft!
24. Neon Sign
Copy the look!
A lot of my friends had neon signs in their dorms freshman year. They make for a nice pop of color. Just make sure you’re allowed to have one in your dorm room before you spend your money on one.
25. Lightbox Sign
Lightbox signs can make for cute little decorations and mood boosters. They’re just like letterboards, but they light up! You can find some here on Amazon. You’ll have fun deciding what yours should say.
26. Photo Strings
I like keeping photo strings up in my room. I usually hang my Polaroid pictures on twine with clothespins. They line the walls of my room. It’s a fun reminder of good memories.
27. Succulents
Succulents are so cute and easy to take care of. Keeping plants in your room can liven your mood. Buy these little potted ones on Amazon. Keep them on your desk and in various places around your room.
28. Decorative Throw Pillows
Keep decorative throw pillows in different places around your dorm room, like on your bed, couch, chair, or bean bag. My roommates and I keep a pillow of RBG on our couch. Find some pillows here on Amazon.
29. Flag
A lot of people like to keep flags on the walls of their dorm rooms. Just make sure that your dorm approves the item for fire safety. If they do, a flag is a great way to show pride in your identity.
30. Tapestry
Again, you should double check that you can have a tapestry in your dorm for fire safety reasons. But if you can, tapestries are a great way to liven up a blank wall. Get one of a cool pattern or painting.
31. Streamers
Streamers are a fun dorm room idea for girls. Have some streamers to hang on your wall for special occasions. Or, you could just keep them up year-round. These light streamers are great for keeping above your bed.
Related: 70 Best Dorm Gifts For College Students – The Complete Guide
Dorm Room Essentials for Girls
32. Shoe Rack
A shoe rack is nice to have to keep things organized in your closet. Otherwise, your shoes will be thrown about everywhere and you might have trouble finding what you need. I got my shoe rack freshman year, and it still comes in handy as a senior.
33. Bedside Lamp
There’s no way you’ll get through the year without a bedside lamp. You’ll want it when you’re up late studying or reading. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to use instead of harsh overhead lights. You can find affordable ones here.
34. Coffee Maker
I love coffee so much. I couldn’t have gone without my coffee maker freshman year. There was always coffee at the dining hall, but it’s so comforting being able to brew a cup from your own room each morning. Plus, it should last you through your college years when you’ll want one for your apartment and so on.
35. Hamper
You can’t get away without a hamper in your room. Otherwise, your dirty clothes will be scattered everywhere, and you’ll have a hard time carrying everything to the laundry room. But just because a hamper holds your dirty clothes doesn’t mean it can’t be cute. Find some cute printed ones online here.
36. Command Strips/Hooks
Command strips are your best friend in college. You won’t be able to nail or even tape things to the walls, but most dorms usually allow command strips. If you plan on hanging literally anything on the walls, you’ll need Command Strips and Hooks. When I was moving in freshman year (when everyone else was), all the department stores in the area were out of Command Hooks because they were in such high demand. It may be best to order them online beforehand.
37. Small Printer
Chances are that your university will have printers on campus for you to use. But having a printer in your dorm room can be really useful. If you’re like me and you procrastinate, you’ll have to print things last minute. Find printers online here.
38. Mini Fridge
This is a must-have dorm room idea. You’re likely to get most of your meals at the dining hall and have access to a kitchen in your dorm, but it’s still nice to have a mini fridge in your room. Late at night when you’re studying, it’ll be nice to have some snacks right there for you.
39. Curtains
Copy the look!
Now, your dorm room may come with curtains. But if it doesn’t, they’re a must. Blinds aren’t always as effective as they should be. Plus, they’re another opportunity for cute decor. Get some that match your bedspread!
40. Wall Mirror
You’re definitely going to want a long mirror in your dorm room. It’ll come in handy every day. You can find a lot of affordable ones online, and you can stick them to your wall with Command Strips. I decorated mine with a few flowers around the border.
41. Alarm Clock
There’s no way you’ll be able to make it through the year without setting alarms for your early-morning classes. Phones obviously work great, but the old-fashioned alarm clocks are so cute! You can find some affordable ones on Amazon.
42. Throw Blanket
You’re definitely going to want an extra blanket for your dorm room. Even if you’re going to school in a warmer place, sometimes the AC can be a little too much. Plus, they can make for a cute pop of color to throw over your comforter or chair.
43. Playing Cards
You’ll definitely want playing cards in college. They’re fun for game nights with your friends. Always keep a deck of cards in your dorm room. Find some here on Amazon if you don’t already have any.
44. Mugs
You’ll want to keep mugs in your dorm room to have tea and coffee during late nights studying. Buy a couple to have just in case. You’ll want a bunch more if you’ll be living in an apartment.
Related: 50 Dorm Room Must Haves for College Students
Bonus Items Girls Can Add to Their Dorm Rooms
45. Hat Hanger
I personally don’t have enough hats to accomplish this, but the look is so cute. If you have a bunch of sun hats, rather than storing them in your closet, make them into a functional decoration! You can find a hanger here on Amazon. It would work great for baseball caps as well!
46. Tea tray
I had a little tray in my dorm room when I started college. It was really useful when I was up late studying, eating snacks, and drinking coffee or tea. It’s definitely not a necessity, but they can be so useful. You could also keep things like plants in the tray if you wanted.
47. Coffee Table
If you and your roommates have a living room of sorts, you’ll have to go for a coffee table. Some dorms may come with one like mine did, but I had to buy one when I moved into my apartment junior year. They’re useful for obvious reasons, like placing your drinks on them while watching TV.
48. LED Marquee Letter
Hanging your first initial letter in lights is a fun dorm room idea for girls. You can find some here online. They’re such cute wall decorations. If you hang it over your bed, it can make for great reading light.
49. Fake Ivy
Fake ivy is definitely in right now. It adds a nice touch of green, and it’s a plant you won’t have to worry about watering. You can order some online here. Easily tape it to your wall when you move in!
50. Macrame Plant Hangers
Macrame plant hangers make for a cute boho look. Make them yourself with some yarn, or order some premade ones online. They’d go great with some air plants, which are super easy to take care of.
Related: 40 Dorm Hacks Every College Student Must Know
51. Calendar
Copy the look!
I always hang a calendar for the year on my wall. I tend to use my planner more often, but I find calendars aesthetically pleasing. Mine is decorated with cartoons from the New Yorker. You can find a bunch online with all sorts of themes and images.
52. Letter Board
My friend got me a letter board for my birthday last year, and it’s one of my favorite decorations. It’s a great dorm room decoration for girls. I like to switch up the quotes every now and then. Sometimes, I add silly or motivational phrases to lift my mood.
53. Lava Lamp
Lava lamps are a fun way to brighten up your room. I keep mine on my nightstand. They’re inexpensive and can add some color. Find some online here. There are a lot of different styles to choose from.
54. Candles
I like to keep a lot of candles in my apartment. They’re nice to light when you’re studying, or when you just want your room to smell nice. Just make sure that you’re allowed to have them in your dorm room before you buy them.
55. Incense Diffuser
If you’re not allowed to have candles in your dorm, you should be allowed to have an incense diffuser. They can make your room smell nice and even relax you when you’re stressed. There are a lot of different scents to choose from.
56. Yoga Mat
If you’re into yoga, pack a yoga mat to keep in your room. I like to use mine in the mornings for yoga before class. Or, if you’re not into yoga, maybe it’s time to learn a new hobby. Take a few classes!
57. White Board
White boards can be great for studying and for leaving reminders. My freshman year, I left a white board outside my door, so my friends could leave little messages for me.
58. Headboard
My bed in my dorm room didn’t have a headboard. If you’d like to get one, you can easily find one to attach to your bed. This one on Amazon makes for great storage as well, which you might want if your dorm room is tiny.
59. Mini Gumball Machine
A mini gumball machine is a fun bonus dorm room idea for girls. You can find some cheap on Amazon. Even if you’re not a huge fan of gumballs, the look of gumball machines is really fun. You can fill it with other candy, too.
60. Piggy Bank
![Cottage Creek Coffee Fund Jar | Coffee Jar with Black Lid | Coffee Gifts for Coffee Lovers | Coffee Money Piggy Bank [White]](https://blendtw.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/51Y6jh6dBxL._SL500_.webp)
Stow away your loose change in a piggy bank. There’s no need to carry change around with you everywhere. This coffee jar is a cute place to keep your change. Save up for something fun!
Related: 60 College Must-Haves – Everything a College Student Needs To Survive College
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! I hope you were able to find some inspirational dorm room ideas for girls on our list.
There are a lot of great items you can buy to make your dorm room feel like home. Best of luck with your semester!
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