My dorm in college was made up of entirely neutral colors. My walls, my artwork, my bedding—I honestly don’t think I bought a single colorful decoration in the year I lived there. And as a long-time lover of all things white, beige, and gray, it was my oasis. If you think about it, the fact that my room was void of color makes perfect sense—I’ve always run screaming from bright hues in my clothing, so why would I have it any other way in my living space? For me, it was perfect, and it made all the chaos and uncertainty of freshman year bearable.
I’ve always believed it’s important to create a living space that speaks to you—and it’s especially important in college. Because when you’re constantly stressed and literally never alone, you need a place that inspires you and helps you unwind at the end of the day. With that said, it can kind of feel impossible to infuse your personality into the tiny corner of an already tiny room you’re probably sharing with three other people. The key, however, is simple: Just look to your closet. With a few pieces that reflect your personal style, you can create a space that not only makes you happy, but also inspires you every single day.
To show you exactly how to do this, we spoke to three different College Fashionista community members about how they found the right dorm décor for their own distinct styles, from simple and classic to carefree boho. Here’s how each student is using fashion to inspire the perfect dorm of their own with some must-have pieces from the new AE x Dormify collection.
“I love the vibe of juxtaposing older items with something more modern.”
— Corinne McGovern, Marist College
How would you describe your style?
“Boho and carefree.”
How is your fashion style reflected in your dorm décor?
“I love the vibe of juxtaposing older items with something more modern. Pairing vintage pieces or distressed denim with something a little fresher makes for a fun mix. I apply this to decorating my space by mixing things like macramé wall hangings with fresh new products like my marbled AE x Dormify pillows.”
Why did you choose the AE Apt Metallic Marble Pillow and the AE x Dormify Chloe Medallion Comforter and Sham Set?
“I’m not one for bright colors, so the seafoam green-and-white pattern of the comforter was an immediate ‘YES!’ from me. As for the pillow, I loved how the marble print was neutral but also had a pop of silver throughout. It definitely adds an extra bit of fun to my bedspread.”
“I primarily use neutral colors, but my romantic flair shines through with the pink accents I've incorporated into my room.”
— Faith Cavage, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
How would you describe your style?
“Chic and edgy with a romantic flair. You’ll often catch me wearing something on trend with a playful accessory to give it a personal touch. A fun pair of AE ripped jeans are a staple in my closet.”
How is your fashion style reflected in your dorm décor?
“I primarily use neutral colors, but my romantic flair shines through with the pink accents I’ve incorporated into my room.”
Why did you choose the AE Apt Sweatshirt/Sherpa Euro Pillow and the AE x Dormify Shibori Wave Comforter Set?
“I chose these particular products because they best fit my style—they’re entirely pink and neutral, which is basically my go-to color scheme. My new comforter and pillow will be the perfect additions to my room this year!”
“My fashion style is reflected in my décor through the simple boho vibe I love.”
— Avery Rizzotto, University of South Florida
How would you describe your style?
“Simple, classic, practical, and comfortable.”
How is your fashion style reflected in your dorm décor?
“My fashion style is reflected in my décor through the simple boho vibe I love. I try to keep everything in my life very cohesive. Whether it’s my outfit, room décor, or social media, I like my style to remain constant.”
Why did you choose the AE Apt Sweatshirt/Sherpa Euro Pillow and AE x Dormify Mirror Dye Comforter and Sham Set?
“I chose this pillow because you can’t go wrong with white—plus it looked super comfy. The comforter I selected reminded me of denim, one of my staples in my wardrobe, and I thought the tie-dye was such a fun design!”
Created with AE x Dormify.
