I’m no interior designer, but when I moved into my new apartment — no longer living with roommates and with complete creative control — I knew that I had to do the vintage Chicago charm justice.
While moving is always a hassle, one of the rewards of being in a new space is the opportunity to truly make it your own. Just recently, I moved into a charming Chicago apartment, and I was determined to make the space warm and inviting.
While I love browsing stores like Anthropologie and Pottery Barn, I realistically needed a more affordable way to add pizzazz to the space. That’s when Five Below (shockingly) came to the rescue.
I’m no stranger to the budget store. It’s my go-to for anything from snacks to crafts to office supplies. But I soon realized how underrated their home decor section is and how often I’ve always breezed past it. One stroll through the aisles and I realized I had everything I needed for the perfect foyer makeover — and got all of it for just $59.
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Wavy Mirror
Price: $5.55
When I moved in, I knew I was going to avoid neutrals and modern styles in favor of lots of character and color. For the foyer, I wanted something eye-catching and eclectic to be the focal point. When I saw this spunky mirror, I knew it would be the perfect centerpiece for a gallery wall.
Wall Art 3-Piece Canvas Set
Price: $5.55
Wall art is a great way to add some personality to a space, but prints and paintings can get pricey, even at stores like T.J. Maxx or HomeGoods. Luckily, these trendy and budget-friendly canvases come in three colorful variations. Alongside the wavy mirror, they were the perfect way to complete my gallery wall.
Decorative Daisy Flower Shelf
Price: $5.55
I can always use an extra place for my collectibles and knickknacks. This lavender flower shelf, which is equally functional and unique, is the perfect item to take up some white space and display some smaller items. The continuation of the floral theme was a plus.
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Himalayan Salt Lamp
Price: $5.55
This salt lamp helped me add a bohemian touch to the entryway. Given that you can find the same item at more expensive retailers for a higher price, it truly felt like a steal. It’s a beautiful source of warm illumination for an otherwise dim hallway — just be prepared to have an outlet nearby. The salt lamp is USB-powered.
Floral Pop Out Planter
Price: $5.55
I don't have much of a green thumb, but as an aspiring plant mom, I’m always on the lookout for ways to display my succulents — even better if the piece is as cute and vibrant as this one. Plus, I love how unique the 3D effect is. I opted to give my plant a new home, but you could easily use the pot to hold keys or other items.
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Bow-Shaped Vanity Table
Price: $20.00
One thing I always do is misplace my keys. When I saw this vanity table, I immediately envisioned it living by my front door as a console table, perfect for tossing the essentials on and adding a pop of color.
Part of what Five Below calls their “Five Beyond” section, the table surpasses the usual $5 range, but for good reason. While it might not be the sturdiest piece of furniture I own, it functions exactly how I need it to. You simply can’t find a table at this price anywhere else.
Cotton Printed Rug
Price: $5.55
The final touch? Something soft and cozy to tie the foyer together. What I’m calling “boho chic,” the intricate design and splashes of color complement the other items in a way that makes the whole foyer feel cohesive. At this price, I’m even considering grabbing another for the kitchen or bathroom.
The final result
All of these items came together for a newly furnished foyer that screams character and charm — exactly what I set out to accomplish when I moved in and what I hoped to be able to achieve when I entered Five Below. An added bonus? Just how easy everything was to assemble. With minimal time (and money), I was able to design an inviting and functional space.
Bottom line
The thought of decorating a new space can be stressful, especially when you consider the costs. But if you’re looking for an affordable way to decorate any corner of your home, you shouldn’t underestimate Five Below. For less than $6 per item (mostly), the store makes it surprisingly easy to deck out your house on a budget all while keeping more cash in your wallet.
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