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There’s a new subculture becoming increasingly popular among young people on social media and in the world of fashion, it’s called ‘Dark Academia’.
Inspired by fall and Halloween, the dark academia fashion trend is described as a style that consists of a mix of preppy, vintage, and gothic elements that create a dark and intellectual vibe.
In this article, we will explore the mysterious world of the dark academia trend and uncover key elements you’ll need to get the look.
What Is Dark Academia?
Dark Academia is a cultural movement that finds its roots in literature, arts, and academia.
It’s characterised by a fascination with classic literature, particularly from the Victorian, Edwardian, and Gothic periods, as well as a love for learning, intellectual pursuits, and aesthetics associated with higher education institutions.
You’ll also find dark academia enthusiasts engaging in activities such as attending lectures or discussions, visiting libraries and museums, and exploring old buildings and campuses.
The aesthetic also incorporates elements of darkness and mystery, drawing inspiration from art and architecture associated with themes like melancholy, death, and the supernatural.
If Harry Potter pops into your head, you’re not far off, the link between the two is mainly in the visual and thematic similarities they share such as academic settings, intellectual pursuits, magic and mystery themes.
Those who embrace dark academia can often be found rocking outfits that look like they’ve come straight out of a vintage photo album, think tweed blazers, collared shirts, pleated skirts, and other vintage-inspired pieces.
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Why Is Dark Academia So Popular?
Now you know exactly what dark academia is, let’s explore why it has become so popular:
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Aesthetic Appeal: Dark Academia fashion has this captivating charm that really speaks to a certain crowd. It ignites a genuine passion for learning, and expressing that through what you wear.
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Novelty and Nostalgia: There’s something refreshing about dark academia fashion bringing back this old-school, scholarly look. It’s a nice break from the sleek, minimalist trends that seem to dominate today’s fashion scene.
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Connection to Education and Literature: Dark academia is like wearing your love for learning and literature on your sleeve, literally! It’s a way to express that intellectual side, that deep appreciation for books and education, which is pretty cool.
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Influence of Social Media: Instagram and TikTok which the #darkacademia has amassed 5.5B views have contributed to the popularity of dark academia fashion. Young adults and teens are sharing their outfits and drawing inspiration from each other, causing a viral trend.
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Versatility: The allure of dark academia fashion also lies in its versatility. You can rock it casually or dress it up for fancier occasions. Whether you’re heading to class, browsing through shelves at the library, or simply catching up over coffee with friends, there’s a dark academia outfit to match the occasion.
@lovingautumnnn #DARKACADEMIA ➻❥ i adore the aesthetic of both of these #thesecrethistory #ifwewerevillains #richardpapen #olivermarks #booktok #CapCut #bookaesthetic #edit #fyp #foryou #autumn #darkacademia ♬ original sound – thea ★
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Yes, you can definitely wear dark academia in the summer!
While it may seem counterintuitive to wear dark and heavy clothing during the summer months, there are ways to adapt this aesthetic to the warmer weather.
One way to incorporate dark academia into your summer wardrobe is by opting for lighter fabrics and incorporating more breathable materials.
For example, instead of wearing a heavy wool blazer, you can choose a linen or cotton blazer in a dark colour. This will still give you the dark academia vibe while keeping you cool and comfortable.
Another option is to focus on layering lighter pieces. You can wear a lightweight black or dark-coloured dress and layer it with a sheer cardigan or a lightweight trench coat.
This will add depth and texture to your outfit while allowing you to adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
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Dark Academia and Light Academia are two distinct subcultures within the broader academic community.
While they share some similarities, they also have several key differences that set them apart.
Dark Academia is characterised by its focus on themes of intellectualism, introspection, and a slightly gothic aesthetic.
It draws inspiration from classic literature, Greek and Roman mythology, and historical periods such as the Renaissance. Dark Academia enthusiasts often dress in a dark, moody fashion, favouring clothing items like tweed blazers, turtlenecks, and pleated skirts.
The subculture also emphasises a love for learning, often romanticising the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual discussions. Dark Academia enthusiasts may frequently engage in activities such as reading, writing, and attending literary events.
Light Academia, on the other hand, portrays a more light-hearted and whimsical approach to academia. It embraces a softer colour palette, favouring pastel hues and floral patterns in clothing choices.
Light Academia enthusiasts often appreciate art, music, and nature, and their aesthetic is more reminiscent of a romanticized vintage style.
This subculture focuses on the joy of learning and the pursuit of knowledge but in a less serious and intense manner than Dark Academia.
Light Academia enthusiasts may engage in activities such as visiting museums, attending concerts, or exploring natural landscapes.
The Colour Palette
Image | Getty Images / Ralph Lauren, Runway RTW Fall 2016, New York Fashion Week
Dark academia encompasses a specific style that reflects an academic look, often with a vintage twist.
This includes a palette of dark and neutral colours such as black, grey, brown, and beige while maintaining a pop of white or cream to complete an overall vintage, studious look.
What To Wear For The Dark Academia Aesthetic?
Dark academia outfits are only limited by one’s imagination because you can mix and match popular staples including vintage blazers, knitted jumpers, plaid skirts, trousers, turtlenecks, collar blouses and school uniforms.
Leather Chelsea boots or vintage Oxford shoes, loafers or Mary Janes will complete the look.
The Accessories
Accessories are the dot on the I when it comes to completing a dark academia look.
They range from vintage and antique pieces like leather-bound books to dark and brooding items such as skulls or old paintings.
But in fashion, tweed beret hats, oversized rounded glasses, satchel or messenger bags and bow ties make the ideal accessories to wear.
Unique jewellery like gold rings, chokers with gothic designs, and other handmade items are all equally at home with this look too.
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