WordofMany

students decorating their dorm rooms with cute organizers

Cute school supplies

organize in style: adorable supplies every college student needs

By Olivia Carter

Published: 20 May 2025

Okay, let's be real. College isn't just about late-night study sessions and questionable cafeteria food. It's also about expressing yourself, right? And what better way to do that than with super cute and functional supplies? I remember my freshman year, walking into my dorm room, feeling like I was stepping into a blank canvas. My supplies? A mismatched assortment of, frankly, boring stuff my mom picked up. Big mistake! Trust me, having a well-organized and adorable workspace can seriously boost your mood and motivation. Plus, who doesn't love a little bit of eye candy while cramming for that exam?

student setting up dorm room desk, surrounded by colorful school supplies | Image: Supplied

Planner Power: Stay on Top of EVERYTHING

a cute, open planner with colorful stickers and handwritten notes | Image: Supplied

Let’s start with the basics, shall we? A planner isn't just a planner; it's your lifeline. Seriously! I used to scoff at the idea, opting instead for scribbled notes on random napkins (yeah, that didn't work). But finding the right planner—the one that actually speaks to you—is a game-changer. Consider the ban.do Classic Agenda. It’s got personality for days, with quirky illustrations and fun stickers. Or maybe you're more of a minimalist? The Moleskine 12-Month Weekly Notebook is sleek, sophisticated, and gets the job done. Either way, pick something that fits your style and that you'll actually enjoy using. Trust me, your GPA will thank you. And don’t underestimate the power of color-coded pens, people! It just…works.

Desk Organizers: Say Goodbye to Chaos

a well-organized desk with various desk organizers, pens, and notebooks | Image: Supplied

Confession time: I'm a reformed clutterbug. My desk used to look like a tornado hit it. Pens everywhere, sticky notes plastered to every surface… a disaster. But a few well-chosen desk organizers can work wonders. The Poppin Desk Organizer Set is a personal favorite; it’s chic, modern, and comes in a bunch of fun colors. If you're short on space (dorm rooms, am I right?), a vertical organizer like the SimpleHouseware Mesh Desk Organizer is a lifesaver. It keeps everything within reach without taking up precious desk real estate. Pro tip: Don't forget about pen holders! I personally love the quirky ceramic ones from Anthropologie. They add a pop of personality and keep your writing utensils in check. Honestly it’s a life changing experience when you get yourself some decent pen holders.

Sticky Notes & Flags: For the Visual Learners

colorful sticky notes and flags used to mark pages in textbooks | Image: Supplied

Okay, I KNOW what you're thinking: “Sticky notes? Groundbreaking.” But hear me out! Sticky notes and flags aren’t just for marking pages; they’re for brainstorming, color-coding, and leaving yourself little motivational messages (because, let's face it, we all need a pep talk sometimes). Post-it Super Sticky Notes are a classic for a reason—they actually stick! For textbooks, I swear by Arrow Page Markers. They're thin, colorful, and won't damage your pages. Plus, they come in a rainbow of colors, perfect for organizing your notes by subject. Honestly? I think its the best thing ever, you just put them on whatever and that’s it! (ps I might have a small post-it note addiction. Don't judge.)

Cute Binders & Folders: Keeping Documents in Order

a stack of colorful binders and folders on a shelf | Image: Supplied

Binders and folders are the unsung heroes of organization. They keep your notes, handouts, and assignments neat and tidy. Forget boring manila folders; go for something that makes you smile! The Five Star Zipper Binder is a student staple—it's durable, has tons of pockets, and comes in fun patterns. For individual subjects, I love the Mead Cambridge Notebooks; they're stylish and come with built-in folders. If you're feeling crafty, you can even DIY your own binder covers with scrapbook paper and stickers. Trust me, having a well-organized binder is like having your life together (even if you don't, haha!). I used to leave a ton of papers laying around and it was a mess, but ever since I got myself some good looking binders, everything is fine.

Tech Accessories: Power Up in Style

a desk with tech accessories like a laptop stand, colorful phone charger, and headphones | Image: Supplied

Let's be real, college is pretty much synonymous with technology. So, why not accessorize your tech in style? A laptop stand like the Rain Design mStand is a must for ergonomics and looks super sleek. A portable charger like the Anker PowerCore 10000 is a lifesaver when you're running between classes (because outlets are always scarce, right?). And don't forget a cute pair of headphones! The Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones are a splurge, but they sound amazing and come in a range of stylish colors. Plus, a fun phone case can add a pop of personality to your everyday carry. Just make sure it’s durable—college life can be rough on your tech!

The Extras: Little Things That Make a Big Difference

a collection of small, decorative desk accessories like plants, candles, and picture frames | Image: Supplied

It's the little things that make a desk feel like home. A small succulent or cactus can add a touch of nature to your workspace. A scented candle (think vanilla or lavender) can create a calming atmosphere. And don't forget a framed photo of your family, friends, or pets to remind you of what's important. I'm also a big fan of desk lamps with adjustable brightness—perfect for those late-night study sessions. And let’s not forget a super cute water bottle to stay hydrated! My personal favorite is the Hydro Flask, it keeps my water cold all day long. The small things make the biggest difference, trust me. I never thought I was a plant kinda guy, but I got a small cactus for my dorm and it made a difference, I got calmer and more focused.

So, there you have it! My guide to organizing in style. Remember, your workspace should be a reflection of you—your personality, your goals, and your dreams. Don't be afraid to get creative, experiment with different colors and textures, and create a space that makes you happy. College is a time of growth, learning, and self-discovery. Your supplies can be a part of that journey! Now, go forth and organize (in style, of course!). And if you are going to buy anything, please do it right before going back to school, I bought a new pen two weeks ago and now there is another pen I want! Good luck friends!