aesthetic on a budget

Why Every Dorm Room Needs This $10 Multipurpose Must-Have (So Colorful!)

Emma Zawacki
Emma Zawacki
Emma is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, but moved to Missouri to pursue her dreams of writing. She studies journalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing at the Missouri School of Journalism. Outside of school, she practices floral arranging, crochets blankets and…read more
published Aug 12, 2025
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forward shot of bedroom with books on the bed, a desk with items on it and a wall filled with photos and a wall shelf
Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe; Prop Styling: Thomas Hoerup & Vicky Wasik

An analog clock is an underrated accessory — especially when you want a room to look cute but still sophisticated at the same time. There’s something about watching the hour and minute hands move that screams “I’m an adult!” in a way that the glow of a digital clock just doesn’t.  

That’s why I was so psyched to spot the coolest clock in this Tik Tok video from Sophie Quietcowski (@sophequietcowski) as she explores Target’s current dorm section. 

This video clearly demonstrates that you shouldn’t sleep on Target’s dorm section — packed with trendy patterns and fun colors, everything is priced competitively with a college budget in mind  (doesn’t mean you have to be a student to enjoy it though). Case in point: The aforementioned analog clock, which rings in at $10. 

Why Every Home Needs an Analog Clock 

This bright blue clock does more than just tell time; it also serves as an alarm clock and the base can double as a trinket tray.  It’s the perfect place to store an extra ChapStick, place your earrings before you lay down, or keep your contact lens case for easy access. 

It also would be cute in an entry way or on a side table as a catchall for your keys, sunglasses, and lipsticks.

At only 6.89×5.5 inches, this compact clock also comes in a baby pink color if blue isn’t your thing. 

It’s a great alternative if you’re trying to avoid looking at your phone at night, and it’s also not backlit, so you can still be considerate of your roommates and their nighttime routines without lighting up the space unnecessarily. 

Whether you’re trying to limit your blue light exposure before bedtime or just want to elevate your space with a fun pop of color, this clock is the perfect way to (functionally!) decorate your room without breaking the bank. 

This post was a collaboration between Dorm Therapy and Apartment Therapy and originally appeared on Apartment Therapy. See it there: This Colorful Bedroom Necessity Doubles as the Cutest Trinket Tray (It’s Only $10!)

Emma Zawacki

Contributor

Emma is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, but moved to Missouri to pursue her dreams of writing. She studies journalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing at the Missouri School of Journalism. Outside of school, she practices floral arranging, crochets blankets and takes care of her plants.

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SchoolUniversity of Missouri '26
MajorJournalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing
FavesCrocheting, sitcoms, tulips, and iced raspberry lattes
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