Just because you can’t fit an eight-foot evergreen through your doorway doesn’t mean you can’t get down with some Christmas spirit and holiday cheer. With a little creativity, you can transform your dorm room or apartment into a winter wonderland.
####String lights and/or hang a stocking
People tend to include string lights in their nonseasonal dorm decor anyway, but now it actually makes sense. Colored, white, twinkling, icicle — you name it. Really live your dreams. Use tacks, Command Strips or tape (of the Scotch or painter’s variety) to hang them up, because residence hall regulations do not permit nails. If lights aren’t your jam or you’re not as extra, hang a stocking on your door.
####Tiny trees
A proper Christmas tree doesn’t have to be tall and green with presents underneath; a small, “fun-sized” tree can be just as respectable. [Urban Outfitters](http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=40338527&category=SEARCH+RESULTS) and [Target](http://www.target.com/p/silver-christmas-tree-24-wondershop/-/A-51226123) typically sell them, along with tiny ornaments to match. No matter where you put it, it will bring some Christmas cheer to your tiny-ass abode.
####Plants
College students seem to have an obsession with succulents, so build on that and spruce up your space with a festive plant. Poinsettias, holly or greenery will suffice, especially if they’re in a holiday-themed pot. Plants make for a great dorm detail or table centerpiece in an apartment and can be purchased at the floral shop in the Agriculture Building on campus or at most grocery stores and supercenters.
####Go Pinterest-crazy
From popsicle sleds and sock snowmen to candy cane wreaths, Pinterest has a ton of fun, dorm-friendly crafts that would make for a fun snow day pastime and cute decoration. Check these out and more on MOVE’s holiday craft board.
If you’re wanting to go the old-school route, simply cut up some paper snowflakes and those cool paper chains of children holding hands. Just fold a few times and snip away. Let your inner third-grader live.
####Ambiance
If you’re light on decorations, really amp up the ambiance to bring all the holiday feels into your dorm or apartment. A classic holiday playlist will contribute greatly, and MOVE’s got you covered on Spotify with a playlist of our top 20 holiday jams.
If you’re living in an apartment, light a scented candle or incense to set a cozy mood. If you’re living in a residence hall, candles and incense are not allowed, so spray a seasonal Febreze such as Fresh Twist Cranberry or Fresh Fall Pumpkin.
_Edited by Katherine White | kwhite@themaneater.com_