The Connector
The Connector

During my first year, I didn’t take dorm decorating as seriously as I should. I spent most of my time in other people’s rooms, enjoying their amenities and influencer-like color palates. Because of my impatient decision to purchase decor based on their rooms, I ended up having to donate and trash a lot of the items I purchased because I simply didn’t care for the style. Also, the price of them just didn’t make any sense.

My second year, however, was a different story. I was able to decorate my FORTY suite to my liking based on my constant trips searching for the best items and the best prices. Here’s a look into what my second year décor looked like:

Here are a few stores that I snagged some items from:

  1. Home Goods
HomeGoods To Open The District at Howell Mill Store Sept. 29 | What Now  Atlanta

Home Goods has some of the absolute best prices for linens, laundry baskets and small plants. The clearance section is where you should start though. Typically, you can find small water fountains and plants that are under $10. Also, the rug section can’t be beaten. There is an area for rugs for around $30 or less, depending on the color.

2. Ross

Ross Stores - Wikipedia

Ross’s motto is “dress for less,” but you can also upgrade your home with that same logic while maintaining a low budget. Ross offers great bathroom décor and even wall hangings for cheap prices. I was able to get a 6-by-4 canvas of New York for only $25, along with mirrors for $10.

3. Burlington

Burlington Dropped the 'Coat Factory' and Became a Wall Street Darling –  Footwear News

Burlington is known for its coats, but its furniture and minuscule decorative items are amazing, too. I want to highlight this store for its selection of scents, salt lamps and flowers. I purchased the white orchids in the video for $20 each. I also purchased some plug-ins for $3 each. You can also find inexpensive large canvases for your walls as well as glassware. I was able to purchase a flute set for $4.

4. Target

upcoming stores | Target Corporation

Target some pretty great options when it comes to plants, bedding and school supplies. Binder holders, pencil holders and other small school supplies are also available at affordable prices here.

5. Walmart

205 Walmart stores now in Georgia - Atlanta Business Chronicle

Walmart has a lot of great options, especially for bedding, but also for bathroom décor. Here, you can find vanity mirrors, lights, cleaning supplies and great scents to keep your room and your laundry smelling good.

John Warner

John Warner

Assistant Photo Editor