Beach vibes and temporary wallpaper are trending for back-to-school season.

Jul 16, 2026


As summer winds down, students will soon trade summer jobs for back-to-school shopping. In fact, Google Search interest for popular back-to-school items — from mini fridges to shower shoes and more — spikes annually around the first of August.

College students are eager to turn their dull dorm rooms into cozy, personalized spaces. Here’s what we’re seeing.

  • Students are being their own interior designers. “3D rendering dorm room” was a breakout search over the last month in the U.S. and “dorm designer” spiked +525%.
  • Popular design trends will bring a little bit of summer to the dorms. Dorm dwellers are looking for relaxing room vibes. Over the past month three of the top trending styles for dorm inspo are "coastal," “boho” and “beach,” and the top colors — pink, blue and green — give off sunset vibes.
  • Decor can add personality without permanent changes. “Dorm room wallpaper” is a breakout search over the past month; pink is the top color and hydrangea is the top pattern.
  • Students are looking for fun lighting and furniture. “Fairy lights” are the top trend for dorm lighting, and “desk hutch for dorm” is a top trending “... for dorm” search in the past month.

Check out our shopping blog for tips on how to use AI Search tools to help you shop this back-to-school season.