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Chicago Dorm Room Essentials for Small Spaces with Big Style

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Starting school in the city? Whether you’re headed to Loyola, UIC, DePaul, Columbia, or beyond, your dorm room should be more than just four walls, t should feel like you. This list has everything you need to create a cozy, functional, and stylish sp...
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🖼️ Chi-Town Wall Art & Decor

Blank walls are no match for Chicago style. Add instant personality to your dorm with art that celebrates the skyline, neighborhoods, or local legends. These pieces make a statement, plus they’re easy to hang with damage-free strips.

 
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Colorful and useful when you're learning the neighborhoods!
I Love Chicago Art by Jordan Sondler
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This is perfect for Midwesterners coming to Chicago - keep a bit of regional pride on your walls.
Midwest is Best by Jessie Steury
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Perfect for Bears fans - let your dormmates know your room is where to watch the games!
Chicago Bears Man Cave Door Scroll
 
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Totally unique, this art will inspire your college era road trips!
Vintage Chicago License Plate Art
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I love this sign, showing your love for Chicago sports teams!
Chicago All Day LED Sign
 
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Everyone moving to Chicago soon discovers - we LOVE our City flag!
City of Chicago Flag
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🛏️ Comfy & Cozy Essentials

Chicago winters are no joke. Layer up your dorm with warm throws, soft lighting, and cozy textures that make movie nights and study marathons way more inviting.

 
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Cozy up with this Chicago Flag pillow and show your City pride
Flag of Chicago 18x18 Pillow Covers
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I absolutely love this Vera Bradley design!
Vera Bradley Chicago Bears Throw Blanket
 
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This soft and dimmable light is great for bedtime reading, and won't disturb your roommate.
Dimmable Touch Lamp

🧺 Storage That Doesn’t Scream “Storage”

Dorm rooms are small, but your stuff still needs a home. These smart, good-looking solutions make the most of your space without cramping your style.

 
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I have used this for years to store living room blankets - plus, it doubles as extra seating for visitors!
Storage Ottoman
 
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This is perfect for keeping all your essentials nearby at night, especially in small spaces.
WallShelfie Bedside Wall Organizer
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This is a must have for maximizing space - just hang on your closet door!
Over Door Organizer
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🕯️ Small Touches That Feel Like Home

It’s the little things that make your space feel like your space. From scented diffusers to soft lighting, these finds add comfort and calm.

 
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Compact, quiet, and perfect for making your dorm smell less like... a dorm.
Essential Oil Diffuser,
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Gentle lighting and some photos from folks at home will make you feel warm and cozy
Photo Clips String Lights
 
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Even if your dorm doesn’t allow real candles, a faux flickering version gives that same relaxing effect.
Lavender Flameless Candles
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🎒 City-Ready On-the-Go Gear

Living in Chicago means being ready for CTA commutes, unpredictable weather, and long days on campus. These items help you navigate city life in style - and without sacrificing function.

 
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Because running out of battery on the CTA is the definition of a rookie mistake. Get one that's slim and lightweight with enough juice to last all day.
3-in-1 Portable Power Bank Keychain
 
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Big enough for your phone, keys, and ID, but secure and close to the body—perfect for concerts, festivals, or the Red Line.
Crossbody Sling Bag
 
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This tumbler is absolutely adorable!
Chicago Tumbler 40oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle
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🌇 Local Love: Repping the 312

Show your Chicago pride with picks from local artists, Etsy makers, and brands with real city cred. These finds are perfect for gifting too!

 
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Perfect for your water bottle or laptop!
Chicago Travel Stickers
 
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Sport a mini bean and show your love for our iconic Cloudgate
Mirror Bean Enamel Pin
 
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A more perfect candle for a new Chicagoan was never made!
Smells Like Moving to Chicago Candle - Windy City and Deep-Dish Dreams Scent
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🎉 Bonus: Roommate-Friendly Finds

Sharing space? These items help keep the peace and the fun.

 
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Leave each other notes, make a grocery list, or share info!
Small Dry Erase Whiteboard
 
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Shared and portable, this speaker will make your room the best to hang in!
Bluetooth Speaker with HD Sound
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Sometimes you just need to tune out without making it a big deal. Great for different sleep schedules, study modes, or when your roommate’s binging reality TV.
Sony Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones
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