Back to school shopping takes on a whole new level of intensity when you're talking about college. Yes, you've got the typical textbooks and school supplies to secure, but then there's also dorm rooms or off-campus living to consider: bedding, storage solutions, decor. To say that your shopping list just got overwhelming fast is an understatement. That's why you'll find us at Target. With everything from sheet sets full of personality to functional items that double as decor — all at affordable prices — it's the ultimate destination for all your back-to-college needs. Now, the only hard part is finding a way to squeeze everything into your red shopping cart.

Not-So-Basic-Bedding

It's pretty much a universal fact: your bed will take up the most space in any dorm room, which means it'll be the first thing people see when they walk in. As the central focal point of your space, take the opportunity to inject some much-needed color and personality through your bedding. Fun sheet sets, blankets, and pillows can help you tell a style story, or at the very least, bring the vibes. Do you want your room to exude tranquility through calming blues and greens? Or perhaps you want zesty orange and yellow hues to match your upbeat energy. Either way, try opting for patterned sheets and a solid throw blanket in a complementary color to lay atop, or vice versa. And don't forget to add some throw pillows into the mix!

Smart Storage Solutions

Dorm rooms are notorious for their lack of storage space, so chances are you'll need to take matters into your own hands. A cube storage system is incredibly versatile — you can use it alone or stacked, as a nightstand or TV stand, placed vertically or horizontally, and with or without storage bins. Speaking of bins, forgo a typical laundry hamper in favor of a large stylish basket. This way, since it passes as decor, you're not limited to hiding it in your closet and can free up that floor space. For organizing your desk and drawers, turn to a modular system of trays to help corral your clutter. You can mix and match different shapes and sizes to store everything from makeup to school supplies to cords to utensils. Finally, take advantage of your wall space to conveniently store and organize your folders, notebooks, or other stationery.

Delightful Decor

You've laid the foundation of your room with bedding and storage. Now it's time to punctuate it with distinctive details. Not only can decorative pieces help to elevate your space (and let's be real, drab dorm rooms need all the help they can get), but they can also help you create an ambience. Liven up the place with (faux) plants, set the mood with lighting, brighten up a dark corner with a mirror. Other nice-to-haves: a floor pillow that can be pulled out for guests and a candle to indulge the senses. It's the little details that will help transform it from a house into a home — or in this case, a dorm room into a dream room — and a place you actually want to spend time in.

Anything-but-Boring Bath Essentials

Is it even a dorm bathroom if it isn't dark and dingy? To offset the dreariness, punch up the area with color and pattern. Make functional essentials like a shower curtain, bath mat, and towels fun with saturated shades or playful prints — or both. And don’t forget about storage, either. Everything from your toothbrush holder to your shower caddy can and should exude personality. You might not be able to control the cold tiles or the lack of windows, but you can try your best to make your time in the bathroom an enjoyable experience thanks to a few mood-boosting items.