by Kristen M. Anderson

Created on: February 04, 2009   Last Updated: October 17, 2009

Your dorm room reflects who you are: your personality, style, and flair. From your bedspread to your books, your dorm room reveals your personal tastes and what's important to you.

STYLE

You have a style that's all your own. Are you drawn to a funky look or French chic? What styles speak to you? What catches your eye? As you discover your style, think about a theme for your dorm room such as sports, beach, or urban sleek.

Next, pick a predominant color and two to three accent colors to make your dorm room "pop". For inspiration, check out paint samples, flip through magazines, or look to nature. You can create a Hawaiian sunset palette of deep purple, peach, and lavender. Or, mimic a sunflower with two shades of yellow and chocolate brown.

Since your bed is predominant in your dorm room, select a bedspread first and then add accent colors with pillows, artwork, and rugs. For a printed bedspread, choose one to two solid colors. For a solid bedspread, build in accent patterns. You can also purchase or sew a drape to enclose your bed for privacy.

Lighting works wonders to create a cozy space. Consider adding a bedside reading lamp as well as a small accent lamp. Personal items such as posters, frames, and bulletin boards can reinforce your colors and theme.

STORAGE

Your dorm room needs to "work", which means maximizing space and minimizing clutter. To accommodate the room's boxy shape, add vertical storage units for sweaters, sports gear and shoes, as well as vertical laundry baskets.

Select storage containers that are both fun and functional. Brightly colored caddies for shower products and make-up are hard to miss in the morning, and small baskets for bracelets and car keys can complement your style.

Be sure to ask your school what storage options are available. Is there off-site storage for your suitcases, bicycle, etc? Is there space under the bed?

SHARING

Living with a roommate provides ample opportunities for sharing. Items such as microwaves, mini refrigerators, irons, and televisions can do double duty, saving you money and maximizing space.

Before you head to school, ask your roommate about her personal style. You may love the same colors and could combine resources such as rugs and lamps.

SHOPPING

Fortunately, creating the perfect dorm room doesn't have to cost a lot. If you're on a budget, be sure to hit back-to-school sales at JC Penny, Target, Sears, and other department stores. Before you go, compare store prices at www.bizrate.com. Stock up on essentials from stores that are going out of business. Or consider shopping online at sites like www.overstock.com.

To reinforce your theme and save money, accessorize your room with items from thrift stores or family members. For an ecological theme, reuse colored glass jars to store school supplies. For a vintage theme, drape a colorful scarf across the wall.

Combining your personal style with smart thinking, you can create the perfect dorm room that speaks volumes about you.

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