Everything you need to know about building your wardrobe in this dark somber aesthetic is right here!
Dark Academia Fashion
"The majority of people associate the Dark Academia aesthetic with the classic preppy look."
Chinos, argyle, and crewneck sweaters made Preppy famous.
Dark Academia fashion, on the other hand, is more Autumn-esque, with duller and darker color palettes.
Dark Academia fashion, like goth clothing brands, is not ideal for places with lengthy summers and hot temperatures all year round because of its obvious heavy and Gothic constructions.
What pieces do I need, and where can I get them?
"The great thing about the academic style is that it is made up of basic pieces, so you probably already have a lot of them, especially if neutral tones are your thing."
Before delving headfirst into this aesthetic, it's ideal to start with the essentials and then add statement items as you go. You don't have to spend a fortune to achieve the dark academia aesthetic. If you like vintage styles, go to your local thrift store like GoodWill. If you don't live near a secondhand store, you can shop online at Amazon, H&M, Zara, Shein, Nasty Gal, and Princess Polly, to name a few.
14 Pieces you'll need to build your Dark Academia Wardrobe
Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks are a must-have item in any dark academic attire. They appear professional while still keeping you warm, which is ideal for the fall and winter seasons. Choose one in a neutral color to go with your slacks, plaid skirts, and jeans.
Cable Knit Sweaters
Cable knit sweaters are a useful piece to have in the fall and winter, and they're especially great for layering with turtlenecks or collared shirts beneath. Cable knit sweaters are available in a variety of shapes and colors, but the most typical academic aesthetic sweaters I see are black, brown, or beige. Depending on your style, you may wear it cropped, large, or longer.
Sweater Vests
Sweater vests exude the perfect academic look. If you want to appear studious and scholarly, you must wear a sweater vest! It is also incredibly practical to wear in everyday life and easy to layer. Sweater vests are a fashionable addition to any ensemble.
Blazers
With a checkered or neutral blazer, you can channel your inner student and professional. Blazers are an inexpensive essential piece that goes nicely with neutral sweaters, sweater vests, checkered pants, and any bottoms. You will not be disappointed with this purchase, regardless of the style you pick.
Trench Coats
Trench coats are a classic coat to own and an essential core element of a dark academic outfit. If you're looking for a coat that will complement your clothing while still keeping you warm, this is it. If you want to build a professional appearance, consider purchasing a black or beige trench coat.
Collared Shirts
A good academic outfit must include a couple of collared shirts. Collared shirts are as professional as they come and are an excellent element to integrate into your wardrobe if you want to seem like an academic. Collared shirts can be layered with virtually any garment, from skirts to tank tops, to immediately spice up a look.
Plaid Dresses
Plaid is an absolute must-have for any dark academic attire. Pick up a checkered pinafore dress and layer it with your favorite collared shirts or turtlenecks to achieve this look. Depending on how you dress it, this is an item that can be worn in any season.
Plaid Pleated Skirts
Pleated skirts are all the rage right now, and the easiest way to incorporate them into a classic academic outfit is to choose a plaid one. Plaid skirts are timeless and preppy, perfect for school, study dates, or casual workdays. You won't be sorry if you add this piece to your closet once you start wearing it with everything.
Plaid Pants
The women in virtually all of the dark academic ensembles I discover on Pinterest are generally dressed in a pair of plaid slacks. I can see why because they're both traditional and beautiful. These pants are ideal for every event, no matter what it is. I suggest wearing them with a collared shirt and a sweater vest or a cable knit sweater.
Trousers
Trousers are a timeless element in any dark academic outfit. Brown or beige trousers are the most prevalent, although brown corduroy and green corduroy are also popular. For a laid-back style, pair them with your favorite turtlenecks or collared shirts.
Shoes (Loafers, Mary Janes, Oxfords, Doc Martens)
The dark academia vibe feeds on preppy schoolgirl looks, so accessorize with a classic pair of loafers, mary janes, oxfords, or Doc Martens. Any shoes that appear polished and professional will suffice!
Knee Socks
If you want to wear a dress or a pleated skirt in the fall and winter, match it with knee socks! Knee socks are both comfortable and functional, so you can't go wrong with a pair. When you take these up, you suddenly look more intellectual.
Bags
A studious bag will round out your dark academic outfit. The most typical bags used with an academic aesthetic outfit are crossbody purses or shoulder bags.
Hair Accessories
Headbands and hair clips aren't required for this style, but if you want to accessorize your outfits, you'll want to get some of these. A black headband or a pearl hair clip lends a feminine touch to an otherwise plain outfit.
Ideas & Inspirations
To get you started, here are some more Dark academia outfits, themes, aesthetics, and ideas.
Thank you for reading, and have fun putting together your dark academic wardrobe.Until next time my friends!
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