10 Things That Look Better Cluttered

10 Things That Look Better Messy
This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.

A messy room can be stressful, but a room that’s too neatly organized can feel sterile. The sweet spot is to have just the right amount of “stuff” to fill a space with personality―without overwhelming it. Here, ten cases when a little clutter is downright decorative and cozy.

Open Image Modal

It’s called an inspiration board for a reason―inspiration rarely comes in clear, concise streams.

Open Image Modal

But why settle for an inspiration board when you can paper an entire wall?

Open Image Modal

The benefit of having stacks of magazines around? They can double as a side table for your reading glasses…and endless mugs of coffee.

Open Image Modal

Speaking of stacks, bring on the books.

Open Image Modal

Seriously, we could die happy in a room like this.

Open Image Modal

A few haphazard pieces might look out of place on their own, but when you add a couple more odds and ends, the effect is utterly charming.

Open Image Modal

Like a scrapbook, you can use your space to display (and relive) all of your travels.

Open Image Modal

Perfectly matched linens are for hotels. Mismatched throws and quilts are for your favorite houseguests.

Open Image Modal

Proudly display kitchen hodgepodge on open shelving (but maybe hide that casserole dish you “borrowed” from mom last year).

Open Image Modal

Related:

Our 2024 Coverage Needs You

As Americans head to the polls in 2024, the very future of our country is at stake. At HuffPost, we believe that a free press is critical to creating well-informed voters. That's why our journalism is free for everyone, even though other newsrooms retreat behind expensive paywalls.

Our journalists will continue to cover the twists and turns during this historic presidential election. With your help, we'll bring you hard-hitting investigations, well-researched analysis and timely takes you can't find elsewhere. Reporting in this current political climate is a responsibility we do not take lightly, and we thank you for your support.

to keep our news free for all.

Support HuffPost

Before You Go

Dorm Decor
Light-weight curtains(01 of17)
Open Image Modal
These curtains will give you privacy without adding too much darkness to your room. ($9.99) (credit:Target)
A decorative pillow(02 of17)
Open Image Modal
Adding a fun touch of metallic, like this decorative pillow, to your all-white bedding is an easy way to add style without over-doing it. ($31.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A floor lamp(03 of17)
Open Image Modal
This standing lamp will instantly add a level of chic to any boring dorm room. ($45.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A carpet(04 of17)
Open Image Modal
Hide any ugly dorm room floor with this cute rug. ($23.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A furry pillow(05 of17)
Open Image Modal
Change up the texture of your room with a fun fur pillow. ($36.00) (credit:Wayfair)
An accent chair(06 of17)
Open Image Modal
Make your room feel a lot more homey with this comfy chair. (94.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A comforter for your duvet(07 of17)
Open Image Modal
A simple comforter to fit into your duvet is a must. ($15.99) (credit:Target)
White bedding(08 of17)
Open Image Modal
Having all white bedding allows you to add pops of color and patterns elsewhere in your room, and it never goes out of style. ($47.00) (credit:Pottery Barn)
An accent pillow(09 of17)
Open Image Modal
Make your room feel personal with a monogramed pillow. ($24.00) (credit:Wayfair)
A bookshelf(10 of17)
Open Image Modal
Clear clutter and showcase your photos on this simple shelf set. ($81.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A storage container(11 of17)
Open Image Modal
Make your storage part of your decoration with cute wicker baskets. ($11.04) (credit:Target)
A desk lamp(12 of17)
Open Image Modal
Brighten up your desk with this classic lamp. ($19.99) (credit:Ikea)
Desk organizers(13 of17)
Open Image Modal
Keep your papers in order with this magazine holder. ($4.99) (credit:Target)
A filing system(14 of17)
Open Image Modal
Adding this organizer to your desk will instantly play up your room's cool factor. ($24.99) (credit:Target)
A desk accessory(15 of17)
Open Image Modal
This letter organizer would make the perfect accent of color in your room. ($7.99) (credit:Target)
A linen set(16 of17)
Open Image Modal
If you want a patterned bed, make sure to keep it in a neutral palette, like in this simple set. ($39.99) (credit:Wayfair)
A towel set(17 of17)
Open Image Modal
A towel set is a must in college, and this one keeps it simple without being boring. ($24.99) (credit:Bed Bath and Beyond)

HuffPost Shopping’s Best Finds

MORE IN LIFE