Just recently, I moved into a charming Chicago apartment, and I was determined to make the space warm and inviting. I'm no interior designer, but when I moved into my new space, I knew that I wanted a welcoming entryway.
I love browsing stores like Anthropologie and Pottery Barn, but I realistically needed a more affordable way to add pizzazz to the space. That's when Five Below came to the rescue. I'm no stranger to the budget store, and I know how underrated their home decor section is. You can easily save money on home essentials and also find some unique, adorable pieces.
One stroll through the aisles and I realized I had everything I needed for the perfect foyer makeover, all for under $60.
Here are the items I purchased, along with the final result.
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Wavy Mirror
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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
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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 TJ 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
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Price: $5.55
I can always use an extra place for my collectibles and knick-knacks. 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.
Himalayan Salt Lamp
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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.
Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
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October is here, bringing crisp air, cozy vibes, and the countdown to Halloween. As the season shifts, so do the savings, making it the perfect time to refresh your home, wardrobe, and pantry with autumn-ready finds. Look for deals on:
- Cold-weather layers
- Fall decor and seasonal home goods
- Halloween costumes, candy, and party supplies
- For grocery savings, grab peak-fall produce, like apples, squash, cranberries, and sweet potatoes
With holiday prep just around the corner, October is a great time to stock up early, take advantage of early seasonal promos before the big rush begins, and ease into the year-end rush with smart buys.


Digital Checking
Bow-Shaped Vanity Table
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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
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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.
Floral Pop Out Planter
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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.
The final result
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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.
Quick tips: How to prepare for economic uncertainty
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Uncertain times call for a review of expenses that goes beyond simple cost-cutting. Here are some steps for you to consider:
- Build a 6-month emergency fund. Prioritize this above other financial goals.
- Compare rates on big ticket items like auto insurance to make sure you aren't overpaying.
- Delay major purchases when possible.
- Consider a side hustle that can generate income with minimal startup costs.
During challenging economic periods, try to focus on what you can control. And remember that financial resilience isn't built overnight.
Bottom line
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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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