by Kay Fair

Created on: August 21, 2008   Last Updated: September 18, 2008

Your dorm room should be more than a place to crash or cram for exams. With a few style pointers and some creativity, your dorm room can be a haven from the hectic college lifestyle, not to mention the most popular hang out in the hall.

STYLE
Style is, of course, entirely determined by individual taste. No one can tell you what your personal style should be, but if you look closely at your clothes, bedroom, and lifestyle, you can determine your style. Ask yourself what colors you prefer to wear. Do you consider yourself a rocker? A cowboy? An all American cheerleader? These personality clues can point toward great theme ideas for your dorm room. When choosing the overall style of your dorm room, it's always a good idea to avoid fads. You don't want to invest a great deal of time or money in a current popular trend that is likely to go out of fashion within a year or two. Instead, think of creating a theme in your room which appeals to your longest standing tastes. For example, if you've always been a fan of pastels, go with a soft patterned theme featuring a great deal of gentle colors and soft fabrics. On the other hand, if you're from a military family, or if you love camping and the outdoors, a camouflage theme is always a fun option.

ESSENTIALS
To create a special dorm room, expand on the classic dorm basics. For example, instead of having a simple coffee maker, set up a shelf with a cappuccino machine, personalized mugs for you and your roommate, and an assortment of coffee and hot chocolates. Stock your mini fridge with more than just your favorites; keep various drinks and snacks to share with everyone in your hall. Instead of just having a basic desk lamp, install an adjustable reading lamp over your bed to allow for late night study sessions in the utmost comfort.

ORGANIZATION
Let's face it. Dorm rooms are small. But that doesn't mean that they have to be cramped, cluttered, and uncomfortable. Gear up with under-the-bed drawers where you can store away out of season clothes to preserve precious closet space. If you have a sink in your room, keep a free-standing set of plastic drawers under the sink to store all your toiletry essentials. Keep your desk organized with various desk accessories such as freestanding magazine racks and a basket to store all your electronic devices and cords when they are not being used.

The most important thing to remember when decorating a dorm room is that your room should be an extension of your personality. This is the first space which is truly your own, so be sure to fill it with colors and objects which inspire and delight. Creating a space filled with your personality will make your dorm room a place where you and your friends will love to be.

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