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Ah, the infamous dorm room – the place where you’ll spend countless hours studying (or procrastinating), binge-watching your favorite shows, and having late-night conversations with your friends.
If your current dorm room decor screams “boring” and “generic,” then it’s time to give it a makeover. Lucky for you, we’re here with 13 easy boho dorm room decor ideas to turn your space from drab to fab. Don’t worry; you won’t need a trust fund to achieve these looks!
Boho Dorm Room Basics
Importance of Colors and Patterns
Incorporating Earthy Tones
The key to mastering the boho style is embracing warm, earthy tones. Think rich shades of brown, terracotta, and deep greens. Add pops of color with mustard yellow, turquoise, and jewel tones. Your dorm room will look like a Pinterest board in no time!
Mixing and Matching Patterns
Life’s too short for matchy-matchy decor. A true boho dorm room is a delightful hodgepodge of patterns, so go ahead and mix those paisley sheets with a tribal-printed rug. Trust us; your space will look effortlessly chic.
Textiles and Materials
Natural Fibers and Fabrics
When it comes to textiles, think natural. Opt for materials like jute, linen, and cotton to give your boho dorm room a cozy and lived-in feel. The softer, the better!
Vintage and Upcycled Items
Add some character to your dorm room with vintage and upcycled items. Not only will you give old treasures a new life, but you’ll also earn some serious eco-friendly brownie points. Win-win!
Recommended Boho Dorm Room Color Palette
| Warm Earthy Tones | Pops of Color | Neutral Colors |
| Rich Browns | Mustard Yellow | Cream |
| Terracotta | Turquoise | Beige |
| Deep Greens | Jewel Tones | Light Gray |
13 Easy Bohemian Dorm Room Decor Ideas
Boho Dorm Room Idea #1: Wall Hangings
Macrame Wall Hangings
Who says Macrame is for grandmas? These intricate, handmade wall hangings will instantly add a touch of boho to your space. Pro tip: Create your own macrame masterpiece by joining a local workshop or watching some YouTube tutorials. Your friends will be tied up in knots trying to figure out how you did it!
Tapestries
Transform that dreary dorm room wall with a vibrant tapestry. The best part? You can find one for practically any theme, from celestial patterns to nature-inspired designs. Just be prepared for some serious tapestry envy from your roomies.
Woven Pieces
Woven wall hangings are all the rage in boho dorm rooms. Look for unique, handcrafted pieces to elevate your space and serve as a conversation starter. Trust us; you’ll be weaving a stylish tale in no time!
Boho Dorm Room Wall Decor Ideas
| Macrame Wall Hangings | Tapestries | Woven Pieces | Gallery Walls | Decorative Mirrors |
| Simple Knots | Celestial | Handcrafted | Art Prints | Vintage Frames |
| Plant Hangers | Nature | Basket Weave | Photos | Ornate Designs |
| Wall Pockets | Geometric | Textured | Postcards | Interesting Shapes |
Boho Dorm Room Idea #2: String Lights
Choosing the Right String Lights
Nothing screams “boho dorm room” like a set of twinkling string lights. Opt for warm white lights to create a cozy atmosphere or go for multicolored ones for a playful touch. And remember, the more, the merrier!
Creative String Light Placement Ideas
Drape your string lights over your bed, along your desk, or around your window for an ethereal glow. Feeling extra artsy? Create a stunning light curtain by hanging multiple strands from your ceiling. Your dorm room will be lit in more ways than one.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #3: Canopy Bed
DIY Canopy Bed
Transform your dorm room bed into a dreamy sanctuary with a DIY canopy. Simply drape a lightweight fabric or mosquito net over your bed and secure it to the ceiling with some hooks. Voila! You’ll have your very own boho oasis without breaking the bank.
Store-Bought Options
If DIY isn’t your cup of tea, fear not. There are plenty of store-bought canopy options to suit your boho dorm room needs. Look for sheer, gauzy fabrics with lace or tassel details for an extra touch of whimsy.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #4: Layered Rugs
Tips for Selecting Boho Rugs
Dare to go barefoot with a stylish, layered rug setup. Choose rugs with bold patterns, rich colors, and varying textures to create visual interest. Remember, in the world of boho, more is always more.
How to Layer Rugs Effectively
When layering rugs, start with the largest rug as your base and then add smaller rugs on top. Don’t be afraid to overlap different shapes and sizes. The goal is to create an eclectic, boho-chic look that will have your guests (and your feet) swooning.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #5: Floor Pillows
Selecting Floor Pillows
Who needs chairs when you have floor pillows? Add a touch of boho chic to your dorm room with an assortment of floor pillows in various shapes, sizes, and patterns. The more, the cozier!
Creating a Cozy Floor Seating Area
Arrange your floor pillows around a low table or near your bed to create a casual seating area perfect for studying, chatting, or simply lounging. Your friends will never want to leave your boho haven.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #6: Indoor Plants
Easy-to-Care-For Plants
Not all of us are blessed with a green thumb. Thankfully, there are plenty of low-maintenance plants that will thrive in your boho dorm room. Consider air plants, succulents, or snake plants for a touch of greenery that’s easy to care for.
Creative Plant Display Ideas
Show off your plant babies with unique and stylish display ideas. Hang them from macrame plant hangers, arrange them on shelves, or cluster them on your windowsill. Your dorm room will be a veritable indoor jungle in no time!
Types of Indoor Plants for Your Boho Dorm Room
| Easy-to-Care Plants | Low-Light Plants | Air-Purifying Plants |
| Air Plants | Snake Plant | Spider Plant |
| Succulents | ZZ Plant | Peace Lily |
| Pothos | Heartleaf Philodendron | Rubber Plant |
Boho Dorm Room Idea #7: Vintage Furniture
Finding and Repurposing Vintage Pieces
Scour thrift stores and flea markets for unique vintage furniture pieces that you can repurpose in your boho dorm room. Look for items with interesting shapes or details, like an antique trunk or a retro rattan chair.
Mixing Old and New Furniture
Combine your vintage finds with contemporary pieces for a look that’s uniquely yours. Remember, the key to achieving that boho vibe is embracing the unexpected.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #8: Gallery Walls
Curating a Boho Gallery Wall
Create a gallery wall that reflects your personality by mixing and matching different types of artwork. Consider prints, photographs, postcards, and even your own creations. The more eclectic, the better.
Hanging and Arranging Artwork
Hang your artwork in a grid or salon-style arrangement for a polished look. You can also lean smaller pieces against the wall for a more casual, boho vibe. Your dorm room will be an art lover’s paradise.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #9: Decorative Mirrors
Boho Mirror Styles
Mirrors aren’t just for checking your reflection. They also make fantastic boho dorm room decor. Look for mirrors with interesting shapes or ornate frames that complement your overall style.
Placement Ideas for Mirrors
Hang your decorative mirrors above your desk, dresser, or bed for a touch of boho elegance. You can also create a stunning mirror gallery wall by combining different shapes and styles. Your space will look twice as large and twice as fabulous.
DIY Boho Dorm Room Decor Ideas and Supplies Needed
| DIY Decor Idea | Supplies Needed | Tips and Tricks |
| Macrame Wall Hangings | Macrame Cord, Wooden Dowel or Branch, Scissors | Look for online tutorials to learn basic knots and patterns. |
| Custom-Painted Furniture | Vintage Furniture, Sandpaper, Paint, Paintbrush, Clear Sealer | Sand and clean the piece before painting for best results. |
| Handwoven Rugs | Loom, Yarn or Fabric Strips, Scissors | Choose a simple weaving pattern for your first rug project. |
| Hand-Painted Pottery | Plain Ceramic Pots, Acrylic Paint, Sealer | Use painter’s tape to create clean lines and geometric designs. |
| DIY Canopy Bed | Lightweight Fabric, Hooks or Tension Rods, Sewing Supplies or Fabric Glue | Use mosquito netting for a budget-friendly option. |
DIY Canopy Bed Step-by-Step Instructions
Time needed: 12 days
How to Make a DIY Canopy Bed for Your Boho Dorm Room
- Gather Supplies
• Lightweight fabric or mosquito netting (enough to drape over your bed and reach the floor)
• 4 hooks or adhesive hooks
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Sewing supplies or fabric glue (optional) - Measure Your Bed
Using the measuring tape, measure the length and width of your bed. Make sure to add extra length to the fabric to ensure it reaches the floor when draped.
- Cut the Fabric
Cut the fabric or mosquito netting according to the measurements taken in Step 2. If you’re using fabric, finish the edges by sewing a simple hem or using fabric glue to prevent fraying.
- Install Hooks
Install hooks in the ceiling at each corner of the bed. Make sure they’re securely anchored and can support the weight of the fabric. If you’re using adhesive hooks, ensure the ceiling surface is clean and dry before applying.
- Attach Fabric to Hooks
Drape the fabric over the hooks, creating a canopy above your bed. Adjust the fabric until it’s hanging evenly on all sides, with the edges touching the floor.
- Customize Your Canopy
For a more personal touch, add decorative elements such as string lights, tassels, or pom-poms along the edges of the canopy.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #10: Window Treatments
Boho Curtain Styles
Don’t settle for those standard-issue dorm room blinds. Level up your window game with some boho-chic curtains. Look for airy, lightweight fabrics in bold patterns or intricate designs to make your windows pop.
Alternative Window Coverings
Not a fan of curtains? Try using a tapestry or a macrame wall hanging as an unconventional window covering. Your boho dorm room will be the envy of everyone on your floor.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #11: Storage Solutions
Boho-Inspired Storage Ideas
Who says storage has to be boring? Incorporate stylish, boho-inspired storage solutions into your dorm room to keep clutter at bay. Consider woven baskets, vintage trunks, or colorful bins that double as decor.
DIY Storage Projects
Get creative with your storage by repurposing items or taking on a DIY project. Paint an old bookshelf, create a hanging organizer from a wooden dowel, or transform a ladder into a chic, boho storage solution. Your dorm room will be organized and Insta-worthy.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #12: Personal Touches
Incorporating Your Interests and Hobbies
A true boho dorm room should reflect your personality and interests. Display your favorite books, add artwork that speaks to you, or showcase your collection of quirky knick-knacks. Your space should tell your story.
Displaying Personal Items
Hang up photos of your friends and family, use decorative hooks for your favorite accessories, or create a mini gallery of your own artwork. Adding personal touches will make your boho dorm room feel like home.
Boho Dorm Room Idea #13: Aromatherapy and Candles
Choosing Scents for Your Space
Create a relaxing atmosphere in your boho dorm room with calming scents. Consider essential oils, incense, or scented candles to envelop your space in your favorite aromas.
Safe Candle Alternatives
If candles are a no-go in your dorm room, don’t fret. Opt for flameless candles or a diffuser to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy without the risk. Your boho sanctuary will be a stress-free zone.
Boho Dorm Room Decor Ideas and Store-bought Options
| Decor Idea | Items to Buy | Store Suggestions |
| Boho Bedding | Quilts, Comforters, Duvet Covers, Pillows | Urban Outfitters, World Market |
| Wall Decor | Tapestries, Macrame, Gallery Wall Items | Etsy, Society6 |
| Textiles | Rugs, Throw Blankets, Floor Pillows | Anthropologie, HomeGoods |
| Window Treatments | Curtains, Tapestries, Macrame | Wayfair, IKEA |
| Storage Solutions | Woven Baskets, Vintage Trunks, Shelves | Target, Thrift Stores |
| Indoor Plants | Air Plants, Succulents, Snake Plants | Local Nurseries, Plant Shops |
| Decorative Mirrors | Vintage Frames, Ornate Designs, Shapes | Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods |
| Furniture | Vintage Chairs, Rattan Tables, Side Tables | Flea Markets, Thrift Stores |
| Aromatherapy & Candles | Scented Candles, Essential Oils, Diffusers | Bath & Body Works, Amazon |
Maintaining Your Boho Dorm Room
Tips for Keeping Your Space Clean and Organized
Now that your boho dorm room is the epitome of style, it’s essential to keep it clean and organized. Create a cleaning schedule, find a place for everything, and embrace your inner Marie Kondo. Trust us; your future self will thank you.
Caring for Textiles and Plants
Your boho dorm room wouldn’t be complete without an assortment of textiles and plants. Make sure you’re caring for them properly by following care instructions, washing fabrics as needed, and giving your plants the attention they deserve.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—13 easy boho dorm room decor ideas that will make your space stand out from the rest. With a little creativity, some clever shopping, and a healthy dose of elbow grease, you can transform your dorm room into a boho haven that will be the talk of the campus.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tapestry and your string lights, and get ready to make your boho dorm room dreams a reality!
Boho Dorm Room Decor Shopping Checklist
Bedding
Wall Decor
Textiles
Window Treatments
Storage Solutions
Indoor Plants
Decorative Mirrors
Furniture
Aromatherapy & Candles
DIY Supplies
Here is a Helpful Video on Dorm Room Boho Makeover
FAQs About Boho Dorm Room Decor
The boho style is a vibrant, eclectic design aesthetic that incorporates natural elements, vintage pieces, bold patterns, and rich colors.
Add soft textiles like rugs, pillows, and throws, use warm lighting like string lights, and incorporate calming scents through candles or diffusers.
Check out thrift stores, flea markets, discount retailers, or online marketplaces for budget-friendly boho decor options.
Absolutely! Try your hand at DIY projects like macrame, painting vintage furniture, or crafting a custom gallery wall.
Choose a variety of patterns in complementary colors and vary the scale to create a visually interesting and cohesive look.
Opt for low-maintenance, indoor-friendly plants like air plants, succulents, and snake plants.
Drape lightweight fabric or mosquito netting over your bed and secure it to the ceiling with hooks or tension rods.
Choose airy, lightweight curtains in bold patterns or try using a tapestry or macrame wall hanging as an alternative window covering.
Mix and match different types of artwork, like prints, photographs, and postcards, and arrange them in a grid or salon-style layout.
Yes! Look for mirrors with interesting shapes or ornate frames and hang them on the wall as decorative elements.
Charlie Victor
Charlie Victor is a go-to source for home decor, home improvement, DIY projects, and backyard makeovers. Based in Florida, he has been transforming homes and businesses across the state since 2005. When he isn’t working, you can find him surfing out on Miami waves!
