Classics of literary history, a love of education, and a fondness for magnificent architecture all come together in a dark preppy aesthetic. Dark Academia is a must-see subculture.
The internet has given birth to new artistic movements and subcultures. Online platforms, which are open to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and are completely free, make it simpler than ever to share interests and hobbies with people all over the world.
With over 1 million Instagram posts and innumerable TikTok accounts, the Dark Academia subculture can no longer be ignored.
What is Dark Academia?
"The term "Academia" refers to a set of aesthetics associated with learning, particularly via reading and diligent study/research."
The many social media subcultures are aesthetically unique from one another, focused on diverse cultural values, concepts, and eras.
Dark academia romanticizes a time when society's upper classes valued liberal education. The subculture is defined by an interest in ancient literature, languages such as Latin, Greek, or French, architecture, art, poetry, and fashion from Western Europe. Dark academics see education as something positive and thrilling, linked with joy rather than monotony.
The "dark" in dark academia refers to the members' inclination for the uncommon and unlawful. Puzzles, murder, danger, cults, and secret societies create the darkness that differentiates dark academia from its more romantic counterpart, light academia.
Background and Origins
"Dark Academia initially emerged in 2015 on the blogging site Tumblr. However, it first resembled a book club rather than a subculture."
What's the cause behind this? Well, Donna Tartt's novel, The Secret History, was published in 1992. The plot centers around a group of eccentric students at an exclusive university who, with the help of their professor, separate themselves from the rest of the students in order to engage in intellectual conversations.
Dark academia evolved from an academically motivated group to a full-fledged lifestyle idea over time, aided by the introduction of additional social media platforms. Self-discovery and visual expression have increased in popularity, as seen by TikTok videos and Instagram posts.
The Inspirations behind the Subculture
"European cultures have had the most effect on dark academia."
Popular periods include the Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanticism. Especially when their paintings or sculptures deal with anatomical research, ancient and Christian mythology, or the transience of life, commonly known as the vanitas motif.
Literature is a key theme in the movement as well. It is vital to read writers such as Lord Byron and Percy Shelley, but it is equally important to write. One tries out complexly complicated calligraphy using fountain pens, another works with linguistics, while another sets down to compose letters by hand.
Dark Academia and Fashion
"The dark academics' outfits represent their zeal for knowledge and learning."
Black, dark brown, forest green, and burgundy are contrasted with cream, gold, and orange in a dark color scheme. Preppy is a generic description of the style. Oxford shirts, blazers, tweed pants, trench coats, duffles, and knitted waistcoats are hallmarks of the collegiate style. Shoes of choice include brogues, loafers, Mary Janes, Chelsea boots, and Dr. Martens.
Brooches, spectacles, ties, watches, and umbrellas are examples of accessories. Knee-high socks go well with short pleated skirts, and jumpers are worn loosely across the shoulders and easily fastened at the front.
Ralph Lauren is a fashion brand that is mainly linked with dark academia. No one does preppy like Ralph Lauren in the fashion industry. The designer always manages to mix the beauty and flair of the American upper class with a certain elegance.
*Here is a more specific post regarding building your wardrobe: The Shades of Academia's Guide to Dark Academia Fashion*
Subculture Locations?
"If you wish to follow in the footsteps of the dark academics or even become a part of the subculture yourself, there are a few sites you should consider visiting."
Museums, libraries, coffee shops, and university campuses are all excellent locations to start. Those looking for something more unique can visit a baroque mansion, a Victorian neighborhood, or even an English country house.
Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge are not the most reblogged online for no reason. But it wouldn't be dark academia if cemeteries weren't on the list of potential hotspots. Everything is done in the spirit of memento mori.
Where else can you find Dark Academia?
"Dark academia can be seen in a variety of media."
There are two ways in general. On the one hand, there are masterpieces from the canons of literature and art history, and on the other, a number of works from mainstream culture.
TikTok and Instagram both provide a wide range of suggestions, recommendations, and guidance. More difficult works of literature, such as Sophocles' Antigone, can be read, as can lighter fare, such as J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. Dead Poets Society, directed by Peter Weir in 1989, is on the list, as are recent releases such as Knives Out, starring Daniel Craig and Chris Evans in 2019.
Perhaps now is the time for you to dive into the exciting world of the dark academia subculture. Unitil next time my friends!
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