Create The Best Dark Academia Wardrobe With 16 Basic Pieces

Authorized use of photo by Laura Chouette via Unsplash

If you spend a lot of time on Pinterest or TikTok, then you’ve most definitely come across the dark academia outfit aesthetic at some point, whether you’re aware of it or not. This dark aesthetic can most likely be attributed to the cold winter months, the solemn 2020 we all experienced, and one too many hours spent reading and watching Harry Potter during quarantine.

Chances are you’re already dressing in the academia aesthetic, or you currently own plenty of pieces that could fit the look. If you’re in search of a classic style that’s both affordable and on-trend right now, then you need to learn how to Create The Best Dark Academia Wardrobe With 16 Basic Pieces.

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Table of Contents

What is Dark Academia?

Okay, so, I’ve told you how popular dark academia is right now. But what exactly is it? Dark academia is basically a glorified collegiate outfit aesthetic centered on staple pieces in neutral shades such as brown, black, and beige. It’s a trendy twist on the classic preppy style, but without all the bright colors, patterns, and expensive name brands. Instead, the academia style is based on the basics such as brown loafers, plaid pants, dark sweaters, and leather trench coats, for example. I always think of Harry Potter characters or college students studying in London for reference.

Which Pieces Do I Need to Own, and Where Can I Buy Them?

The nice thing about academia style is that it’s made up of basic pieces, so you probably already own a lot of them, especially if neutral pieces are your jam. Before completely diving into this style, it’s best to start with the basics, and then pick up statement pieces as you go along. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get the dark academia look. If you’re into vintage looks, check out your local thrift stores such as GoodWill. But if you don’t have access to thrift stores, you can try online places such as Amazon, H&M, Zara, Shein, Nasty Gal, and Princess Polly, to name a few.

1. Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks are a staple piece in every dark academia wardrobe. They look studious and keep you warm at the same time, which is perfect for the winter season we’re experiencing right now. Pick one up in neutral colors to style with your trousers, plaid skirts, and jeans.

2. Cable Knit Sweaters

Cable knit sweaters are a practical piece to own during the fall and winter, and they’re especially perfect to layer with turtlenecks or collared shirts underneath. Cable knit sweaters come in so many different styles and colors, but the most common academia aesthetic sweaters I see usually come in black, brown, or beige. You can wear it cropped, oversized, or longer, depending on your style.

3. Sweater Vests

Sweater vests give off the ultimate academia vibe. If you want to look studious and academic, then you have to get a sweater vest! Although these are a trend right now, they are also very practical to wear in everyday life and easy to layer. Sweater vests add a stylish touch to any outfit.

4. Blazers

Channel your inner student and professional with a plaid or neutral blazer. Blazers are an easy staple piece to pick up for an affordable price and pair well with neutral sweaters, sweater vests, plaid pants, and any bottoms. No matter what style you choose to stick with, you won’t regret this purchase.

5. Trench Coats

Trench coats are a classic coat to have in your wardrobe and a key staple piece of a dark academia wardrobe. If you’re in search of a coat that will highlight your outfit and keep you warm at the same time, then this is it. Picking up a black or a beige trench coat is a great idea if you’re interested in developing a professional look.

6. Collared Shirts

You can’t have an academia wardrobe without a few collared shirts. Collared shirts are as professional as it gets and a great piece to incorporate into your style if you want to dress like an academic. Collared shirts can be layered with almost any piece, from dresses to tank tops, and instantly dress up a look.

7. Plaid Dresses

Plaid a must for any dark academia wardrobe. This aesthetic relies heavily on layering, so pick up a plaid pinafore dress and layer it with your favorite collared shirts or turtlenecks. This is a versatile piece you can wear any season, depending on how you style it.

8. Plaid Pleated Skirts

Pleated skirts are everywhere right now, and the best way to incorporate this trend into a classic academia wardrobe is by picking up a plaid one. Plaid skirts are classic and preppy for school days, study dates, or casual work days. You will not regret adding this piece to your wardrobe once you start pairing it with everything.

9. Plaid Pants

In almost all of the dark academia outfits I find on Pinterest, the women are usually wearing a pair of plaid pants. I can totally see why because they’re classic and cute at the same time. No matter what the occasion is, these pants are appropriate for any event. My favorite way to style them is with a collared shirt and a sweater vest or a cable knit sweater.

10. Trousers

Trousers are a classic staple piece in a dark academia wardrobe. The most common are brown or beige trousers, but brown corduroy and green corduroy are popular too. Wear them with your favorite turtlenecks or collared shirts for a casual look.

11. Shoes (Loafers, Mary Janes, Oxfords, Doc Martens)

The dark academia aesthetic thrives on preppy school girl looks, so pick up a classic pair of loafers, mary janes, oxfords, or Doc Martens to accessorize your look. Any shoes that look polished and professional will do!

12. Knee Socks

If you choose to wear a dress or a pleated skirt during the fall and winter, accessorize it with a pair of knee socks! Knee socks are cozy and practical, so you can’t go wrong with adding a pair to your wardrobe. You instantly look more academic once you pick these up.

13. Leather Belts

Almost every dark academia aesthetic outfit photo I’ve come across online includes a leather belt. Brown and black are the most common but don’t be afraid to try out color too. Olive green, maroon, beige, or a rust color would look nice as well. Add a suede belt with an oversized buckle for a fun detail.

14. Bags

Complete your dark academia look with a studious bag. Crossbody bags or small shoulder bags are the most common bags worn with an academia aesthetic wardrobe.

15. Pendant Necklaces

Pendant necklaces are elegant and sophisticated just like the rest of the dark academia aesthetic. This aesthetic focuses on minimal accessories and neutrals, so gold, pearl, or cameo pendants are perfect for this style.

16. Hair Accessories

Headbands and hair clips aren’t mandatory for this aesthetic, but if you like to add a few accessories to your looks, then you’ll want to pick up some of these. A black headband or a pearl hair clip adds a touch of femininity to this otherwise neutral look.

Thanks so much for reading, and have fun building your dark academia aesthetic wardrobe 🙂