Dorm Room Decorating Ideas: Coastal Chic
Even if there isn't a salty breeze with rolling waves outside your window, a cool color palette and bright white wooden furniture can mimic the comfort of a seaside bungalow. Pair a big cozy bed outfitted in stripes and florals, and pull it all together with an oversized rug in a preppy gingham print.
Seashells, lanterns, and colorful pieces of coral will turn shelves into a work of art. Add a few small pieces of furniture, like side tables and storage baskets, in white-washed wicker and woven seagrass. With such clean aesthetic, your room will serve as a chic getaway—without going anywhere!
- 2/15
Lamp
This pretty pearl lamp base is just begging for a colorful shade. Choose something that coordinates with your bedding.
Anthropologie String-of-Pearls Base Lamp, $128. anthropologie.com.
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Mug
Keep an oversized mug on hand for late-night caffeine fis—or use it as a cute container for makeup.
Urban Outfitters Giant Alice in Wonderland Tea Cup, $16. urbanoutfitters.com.
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Rug
The unexpected black argyle pattern adds a cool contrast to this cozy white rug.
Anthropologie Flokati Diamonds Rug, $598-$2,698. anthropologie.com.
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Phone
Even if your dorm room doesn’t come equipped with a land line, this retro pink telephone will look adorable atop a stack of books.
Modcloth Dial P for Princess Phone, $55. modcloth.com.
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Jewelry Holder
Although this looks like one of grandma’s knick-knacks, it’s actually an incredibly useful (and adorable!) ring holder.
Urban Outfitters Love Bunnies Ring Holder, $12. urbanoutfitters.com.
- 7/15
Vanity
A compact vanity is perfect for getting ready for class—or sneaking in some last minute studying.
Ikea Hemnes dressing table with mirror, $249. ikea.com.
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Curtains
A nice set of pale curtains will diffuse light while still allowing a little sun to peek through. Plus, they’ll match everything.
Anthropologie Airy Flounce Curtain, $108 - $168. anthropologie.com.
- 9/15
Canister
A fancy oversized canister can store all sorts of accessories and extras. Search unexpected places for pretty options—this one’s intended for the kitchen.
Anthropologie Verdant Bread Bin, $158. anthropologie.com.
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Frame
A collection of intricate frames will display all of your favorite photos in the prettiest way.
Serena & Lily Jali Frame Collection, $58. serenaandlily.com.
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Bins
A set of nesting bos makes even school supplies seem stylish.
Serena & Lily Kuta Tin Bos, $58. serenaandlily.com.
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Clock
Always running late to class? Invest in a cute wall clock that serves as a focal point of your room. It’ll liven up your walls and make you aware of the time.
Design Within Reach Fernando the Fish Wall Clock, $150. dwr.com.
- 13/15
Mirror
Even if afternoons spent sailing are just a distant memory, this nautical-inspired jute mirror.
PB Teen Know Your Ropes Wall Mirror, $99. pbteen.com.
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Coral
Liven up a corner of your desk with gorgeous faux coral, which brings a beachy vibe to any room.
Z-Gallerie Faux Coral, $60. zgallerie.com.
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Pillow
No bed is complete without a handful of ultra-cozy fur pillows.
Faux Fur Toss Pillow, $25. bedbathandbeyond.com.















