It's almost the start of a new school year, although this year will be very different from the norm for both returning and incoming students. Many may be starting in September or January. Regardless of when you're starting, it's always good to sort through items you no longer use, especially if you're moving across the country. Getting rid of old items can help you feel refreshed while still making room for your new and affordable ones.

Here's a list of affordable and trendy dorm decor you'll need for this upcoming semester.

1.LED Strip Lights

LED Strip Lights, LPENG 5m RGB Rope Lights 16.4ft 5050 SMD… | Flickrlive.staticflickr.com

These LED strip lights have been taking social media by a storm and can be seen on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Tumblr, etc. These lights can change to whatever mood you're feeling and can really brighten up your dorm room.

2.Throw Pillows

three green, orange, and white throw pillows on sofa Photo by DESIGNECOLOGIST on Unsplash

Throw pillows, or accent pillows, can tie the whole room together and make your dorm feel like home.These pillows may sit on top of your bed but it is really made to enliven it. These pillows are small, affordable ,they don't weigh much, and can have fun designs or writing on it.

3. Succulents

1. Succulents improve air qualityassets.rebelmouse.io

Succulents are an extremely trendy item at the moment and can bring the whole room together, especially if you decide to go with a modern or minimalistic style. Succulents are cute and small, making them the perfect decor for a dorm room. These plants are also perfect for you if you are not the best at taking care if plants, as they only require water when the dirt is bone-dry to the touch.

4.Tapestry

2. Tapestries i.pinimg.com

These decor pieces have been a rising trend with millennials and Generation Z. There is a wide range of tapestry choices that could fit with your style or theme. Many of the tapestry designs have a soft, worn-in cotton style. Many of the tapestries are complete with metal hooks easy for hanging.

5.Wire Wall Grid

DIY WALL GRID | Urban Outfitters + Pinterest Inspiredwww.youtube.com

6. 3-Tier Organizer Cart

HOW I ORGANIZE AND STORE MY PLANNER SUPPLES & STICKERS | IKEA RASKOG CART TOURwww.youtube.com

These functional 3-tier organizer carts are perfect for space-saving and are extremely easy way to transport school essentials, health, or beauty items. They come in multiple colors and can perfectly match your theme. This organizer can hold many essential items and uses the least amount of space to hold the most amount of objects, which makes it perfect for small dorms.

7.Wall Hanging Mirror

round wall mirror near window Photo by Imraumanzug on Unsplash

Although mirrors might seem like such a small item in your dorm, it's extremely essential for day to day life. It plays such a vital role in bringing positive energy into your dorm. Having a mirror in your dorm can make a small space feel bigger, which is perfect because most dorm rooms feel confined.

8.Lettered Board/Lightbox

Less Is More signboard across blurry city lights Photo by Prateek Katyal on Unsplash

Lightboxes provide visibility and engages people to look at it. Lightboxes or lettered boards leave tons of room for you to be creative...allowing someone to write whatever they feel on it. These decor items can change to whatever you're feeling or thinking. There is an abundance of emojis and letters available too. The color variation and patterns are also very appealing for many students.

9.Portable Bluetooth Speaker

black and red lg portable speaker Photo by Habib Dadkhah on Unsplash

A portable speaker is a perfect item to bring with you when traveling! Sharing songs are a great way to connect with more people. However, speakers are not only used for enjoyment, it's also used as a stylish ornament that ties the room together. A portable speaker allows you to listen to audiobooks or music, which can help enhance your study-life as well as your leisure time.

10.Hanging Shoe Organizer

20 Ways To Use A Hanging Shoe Organizerwww.youtube.com

Shoe organizers are extremely helpful to make room for other decor items you might want in your room. This organizer keeps your shoes stacked at a vertical angle. It's often referred to as a "space-saver." The organizer can be put in a closet and it's easy to access, so you can grab your shoes and go at anytime.

11.Laundry Basket

Laundry basket | Leonid Mamchenkov | Flickrlive.staticflickr.com

A laundry basket is one of the necessities that anyone should have in their room. This item keeps all of your dirty clothes stored in one spot and it makes it easy to bring down your dirty clothes to the laundry area when you need to wash them.

12. Fan

turned-on white desk fan Photo by Toshi Kuji on Unsplash

A fan is also a necessity in your dorm. Because of the small space, it can get either very cold or hot at any time. A fan can help induce air flow in your room, especially if you're attending a school that is located in a very hot place, such as the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.

13.Desk Lamp

Photo by Monty Allen on Unsplash

A desk lamp is also an essential item for college! This item will provide light for a specific area at any time. If you're studying and don't want your main light on, a desk lamp is great to have. It can provide a strong light source for your desk. Many students will for sure have late-night cram sessions, whether it's for a big test or exam the next day. This is definitely something you should buy!

14.Vanity Mirror

DIY Vanity Mirror With Lights | ONLY $40!www.youtube.com

A vanity mirror is a dorm must have. Although some can be very pricey, there are many that are reasonably priced. You will not be disappointed if you have this item! Vanity mirrors have targeted lights so that you can either do your makeup, hair, or even take photos. They also provide a space for beauty and health products. The big ones will be very hard to get in your dorm, so it would be best to target the smaller or travel-sized mirrors.

15.Shower Tote

What's in my COLLEGE Shower Caddy/ My Shower Must Haveswww.youtube.com

Last but not least, shower totes are another must-have dorm room item for this upcoming school year. This organizer keeps all the hygiene products in one place. Without it, I know that it would be a struggle to carry all these products down to the bathroom. You can also choose the color or customize them as well!