Create The Best Light Academia Wardrobe With 20 Basic Pieces

Nicolette Muro

4 years ago

Authorized use of photo by William Krause via Unsplash

If you spend a lot of time on Pinterest or TikTok, then you’ve most definitely come across the light academia outfit aesthetic at some point, whether you’re aware of it or not. This light aesthetic is perfect for spring and summer if you enjoy wearing neutral and classic outfits.

Light academia is an easy aesthetic to wear, and you probably have key pieces in your wardrobe already if you like to invest in staple pieces or everyday neutrals. 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 light academia wardrobe with 20 basic pieces.

What is Light Academia?

Light academia is a subcategory of the popular dark academia aesthetic. It’s an ivy league style centered on staple pieces in light neutral shades such as light brown, white, 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 light academia style is based on the basics such as loafers, plaid pants, pleated skirts, and collared shirts, for example. I always think of Harry Potter characters or college students studying in London for reference because of the emphasis on learning and appreciation of the arts.

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 light 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, ThredUp, Depop, and Princess Polly, to name a few.

1. Collared Shirts

You can’t have an academia wardrobe without a few collared shirts. Collared shirts can be layered with almost any piece, from dresses to tank tops, and instantly dress up a look. Incorporate long sleeve and short sleeve collared shirts into your wardrobe depending on the season and your location.

2. Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks are a staple piece in every light academia wardrobe. They look studious and keep you warm at the same time, which is perfect for the winter season or early spring. Pick one up in neutral colors to style with your trousers, plaid skirts, and jeans.

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 practical to wear in everyday life and easy to layer. Sweater vests add a stylish touch to any outfit.

4. Cable Knit Sweaters and Cardigans

Cable knit sweaters are a practical piece to own during the fall and winter or at the beginning of spring while the weather is chilly. Cable knit sweaters come in so many different styles and colors, but the most common light academia aesthetic sweaters I see come in white, beige, or light brown. You can wear it cropped, oversized, or longer, depending on your style.

5. 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.

6. Trench Coats

Trench coats are a classic coat to have in your wardrobe and a key staple piece of a light 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 brown or a beige trench coat is a great idea if you’re interested in developing an academia style.

7. Puff Sleeve Tops

Puff sleeve tops brighten up any academia wardrobe. They’re perfect for warmer weather as we head into summer and pair well with pleated skirts and plaid pants. Add a feminine touch to your light academia style with puff sleeve tops and blouses.

8. Lace Tank Tops/Bodysuits

Lace tank tops and bodysuits are perfect for a light academia wardrobe during the spring and summer. These pieces will add a touch of femininity to any outfit or easily dress up a look. Pick up some in white, beige, or a pastel pink or blue for the light academia touch.

9. Corsets

Corsets are a recent addition to my light academia wardrobe after they rose to popularity thanks to Bridgerton. If you want to add a touch of royaltycore to your outfits, then you need to pick up a corset in beige, gold, or black for romantic looks. A corset is an easy way to dress up any light academia outfit.

10. Plaid Dresses

Plaid is an essential pattern in the academia aesthetic. 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.

11. 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 workdays. You will not regret adding this piece to your wardrobe once you start pairing it with everything.

12. Plaid Pants

Plaid pants are 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.

13. High-Waisted Trousers/Jeans

Trousers and high-waisted jeans are a classic staple piece in a light academia wardrobe. The most common are brown or beige trousers, brown corduroy pants and light wash straight leg jeans. Wear them with your favorite blouses or collared shirts for a casual look.

14. Corduroy Skirts

Carry a piece of your academia winter wardrobe into spring and summer with a corduroy skirt. Owning a classic corduroy skirt in a khaki or brown color is perfect for light academia looks to style with all of your collared tops and blouses. It matches with most tops and can look as casual or dressy as you prefer.

15. Shoes (Mary Janes, Oxfords, Loafers, Boots)

The light 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!

16. Ankle/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. During spring, it’s better to wear ankle socks when the weather is warmer.

17. Leather Belts

Almost every light 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.

18. Bags

Complete your light academia look with a studious bag. Crossbody bags or small shoulder bags are the most common bags worn with an academia aesthetic wardrobe, but canvas bags are popular during spring and summer too.

19. 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.

20. 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 light academia wardrobe 🙂