Dorm Room Drip: How To Make 10×10 Spaces Instagram-Worthy 

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Temple chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Let’s be real—college dorms aren’t exactly known for luxury. Between cinderblock walls, twin XL beds, and the never-ending struggle of a shared space, creating a room that feels like you can seem impossible. But trust me, it’s not. Whether you’re going for soft girl minimalism, cozy neutrals, or a full-on Pinterest vibe, your dorm can be both functional and photo ready. In this guide, I’ll break down how to elevate your tiny college room into a curated, Instagram-worthy space that screams “main character energy—”even if it’s only one side of the room. 

The Dorm Dilemma 

Picture this: white walls, bare bed, and a dark room. Moving into a dorm…we’ve all been there, staring at blank walls wondering how to make them less prison-like and more Pinterest core. In my experience and expertise in décor, I’ve learned a dorm can be both cute and functional with the right hacks. 

Defining Your Aesthetic 

The first step is to find your style before shopping. Defining your aesthetic saves not only money but also mis-matched chaos. Think of it as curating your own personal brand—your dorm should feel like you upon entrance. Some popular dorm aesthetics include clean girl neutrals, which focus on simplicity and soft tones: white bedding, beige throw blankets, and gold accents that give a classy, timeless look. If you love a little more personality, cottagecore is cozier, with fairy-tale floral prints, soft lighting, and warm pastels. For the creatives, an artsy vibed room with mixed colors, textures, and vintage finds can make your space feel effortlessly cool. When it comes to my personal favorite, pink glam, lovers can go all out with blush hues, mirrored accents and bold statement décor. 

Still not sure? Scroll through Pinterest, watch TikTok dorm tours, or even create your own mood board to see what speaks to you. Once your vibe is clear, it’s way easier to shop intentionally—every pillow, print, or lamp will serve a purpose in creating your dream dorm. 

Making Every Inch Count: Function Meets Fashion 

Now that you’ve found your vibe, it’s time to make the space work. Dorms are small, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work with what you have! Storage bins under the bed, over the door racks, and collapsible organizers are your best friends. Look for multi-purpose furniture like ottomans that serve as storage or a step stool.  

Remember, the more organized your space looks, the cuter it looks on camera. A clutter-free setup not only makes every photo post-worthy, but also keeps your mind clutter-free too. 

Décor That Pops 

Lighting is everything. String lights, LED strips, or a soft lamp can completely change the mood of your space (and your selfies). Layer your bedding with different textures: plush throws, fur pillows, or a pop of color will bring your whole room together. 

This is where the magic happens; the little details that make your dorm feel like home. Add personal touches that tell your story: hang polaroids of your friends, display your favorite books, or keep a small vanity tray for your jewelry and perfumes. If your dorm allows it, candles or wax warmers add cozy vibes (and make your room smell amazing). 

Finishing Touches 

Don’t forget to include a few sentimental or signature pieces: a vision board above your desk, a mini gallery wall, or a family photo that reminds you of home. These finishing touches can turn your dorm from a random room into your safe space, recharge zone, and your aesthetic headquarters all in one. 

And remember, upkeep is key. A cute space only stays cute with maintenance. Do weekly resets, fluff your bedding, and reorganize your desk when things get hectic. Your future self will thank you (and so will your camera roll). 

Wrap-Up – From Cramped to Curated  

At the end of the day, it’s not about how big your dorm is, but about how you design it. With creativity and intention, you can turn even the smallest space into something that reflects your personality, boosts your mood, and photographs beautifully. 

When your environment looks good, you’ll feel good. Your 10×20 space might be tiny, but your aesthetic? Absolutely limitless.