Spell-Bounding Dark Academia Aesthetic Outfits & How To Style Them!

From Hogwarts to TikTok, this aesthetic trend is everywhere!

To be able to sport preppy clothes is a sexy privilege enjoyed by the upper-class students studying in Ivies, Oxfords, and Cambridges. And we’ve already talked about the impact of those skirts, tweeds, and blazers, haven’t we? What’s different this time? That’s the tricky part- but not so much! It’s a trend that’s an amalgamation of sublime architecture, literary essence, and perhaps the sexy college professor appeal.

Credits: Twitter/azra @skywaleia

Imagine yourself in a captivating world where the allure of brown books and vintage charm meet in a dance of old-school cool. That’s the enigmatic realm of Dark Academia—a trend that celebrates the beauty of classic literature, artsy vibes, and deep thoughts. If you’re an avid reader, you are well aware of the vibe of the libraries, surrounded by the aroma of old pages. Now imagine people exploring books while dressed in stylish tweed blazers and cozy cardigans. It’s a blend of intellectual curiosity and timeless elegance that draws you in like a magnetic spell. 

The Dark Academia Vibe From Hollywood

Credits: HBO

Whether it’s Hollywood tv dramas, TikTok or Instagram, the dark academia aesthetic trend is blowing up everywhere, and we can’t deny that. You know what we’re talking about, don’t you? The artistic trend will capture all of those ingredients so perfectly that you’ll almost feel like sniffing through those brown pages in the old library and reminiscing about the history in an ideal way. And it’s different from the light academic trend. Hogwarts is just one case in point. We all love the ladies of the mystic falls, don’t we? Klaus Mikaelson’s daughter ‘Hope’ surely knows how to get the dark-academia aesthetic outfit going for her. Even the tv series ‘The Magicians’ oozes the right kind of dark flare that is being addressed here. (Who doesn’t like magic, guys?)

What Are The Key Elements Of Dark Academia Aesthetic Trend?

Credits: Pinterest

Think classic literature, mysterious libraries, and deep thoughts wrapped in cozy tweed blazers and knee-high socks. It’s all about embracing that scholarly style, rocking those button-down shirts and pleated skirts like a seasoned intellect. The backdrop? Atmospheric old buildings, autumn leaves, and an air of poetic melancholy that adds that touch of magic. We’re talking about a crowd that’s all about book clubs, deep discussions, and journaling their hearts out. It’s the vibe of intellectual curiosity, artistic appreciation, and embracing those darker, Gothic undertones that make this aesthetic so magnetic.

Who Can Pull Off Dark Academia Fashion Trend?

This trend is a blockbuster because anyone can pull it off, whether a college professor, graduate, or general, irrespective of age and background. Whether it’s your fave turtleneck or a classy tweed, the nostalgia that these outfits bring is insane. Who wouldn’t want their room to be filled with Dark academia aesthetic clothes?

Want to bring this dark academic, aesthetic trend to life? These most fabulous outfits will prove to be a sure-fire hit this year!

How To Style The Dark Academia Aesthetic Outfits/Clothes In 2024?

1. Queen’s Gambit aura

Credit: Ssense

Tanner Fletcher Brown Loop Trim Shirt!

This one is something Beth Harmon from Queen’s Gambit would wear for her casual strolls in the house. It’s a handwoven satin silk shirt that comes in aesthetically pleasing brown. (Brownie points for the white outlines).

2. The Sherlock Way

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Grey Proenza Schouler White Label Bi-Stretch Melange Blazer

If there ever were a female version of Dr. Watson from Sherlock Holmes, the character would be donning a similar blazer, making you look just as intelligent and attractive as the famous side-kick of Sherlock!

3. Bring it on like Dakota!

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Gucci’s Beige Jumbo GG Tote

Fifty Shades star Dakota Johnson has been spotted multiple times donning Gucci’s similar totes; one time when she stepped out of Miami airport and the other time when she was in New York. Both times, she killed the look with her jumbo GG tote, a different variant, though, but giving the same preppy vibe.

4. Slip into a Dark Sweater!

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Grey Lupetto Sweater by Rick Owens

As somebody who has just graduated with a literature degree and has a stack of books in their closet, this ribbed sweater carries that dark enigma. And this sweater from Rick Owens translates the idea perfectly. Layer a long coat over it to sport a graduate’s look

5. Spencer Grey’s Statement!

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SANDY LIANG’s Brown Grebe Long Sleeve Polo

How many of you have seen Pretty Little Liars? If yes, you’d know how Spencer always appears to be a literary academic, and you will see her wearing long sleeve polos and other dark preppy clothes, often floral.

6. A College Professor Vibe

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MAX MARA’s Brown Cashmere Ludmilla Icon Coat

Talking about the academic looks, this brown coat from Max Mara strikes the right chord with us when pulling off a professor’s look teaching in an Ivy. Have at it and let us know if it works!

7. The Librarians Tailored Skirt!

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BURBERRY Brown Argyle Intarsia Ayla Skirt

Admit it; you thought of a sexy librarian when you took a peek at this skirt from Burberry. It will work if you’re looking for that dark academic look everyone’s getting mad for!

8. Finish up the look!

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ANN DEMEULEMEESTER’s Black Silk Levi Tie

If you’re going with the academic look, whether light or dark, you will need a tie to display the preppy impact you want to make. And this tie is going to highlight that aspect!

9. MAISON MARGIELA

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Brown Soft Tabi Loafers

In the end, ensure you have shoes complimenting your dark academic look most ethically. Our bets are on these soft brown loafers crafted by the artisans of Maison Margiela!

More Dark Academia Aesthetic Clothes To Prep You Up!

Credit: Farfetch

Maison Michel Rico Wool Felt Fedora Hat

It’s got a vintage-inspired silhouette that adds a dash of intellectual charm to any ensemble, transcending the boundaries of style and time.

Credit: Farfetch

Burberry Kensington Heritage Trench Coat 

Enchanting and steeped in heritage, this reigns as a sartorial masterpiece—a symbol of sophistication and class. Like a literary classic, it weaves a tale of elegance, standing the test of seasons and trends.

Credit: Farfetch

Atu Body Couture Cropped Pleated Blouse

It’s a true emblem of intellectual allure. Its pleated design and cropped silhouette create an artistic harmony that encapsulates the essence of the Dark Academia aesthetic, inviting admiration from the literary connoisseurs.

Credit: Farfetch

Jil Sander Draped Neck Long Sleeve Blouse 

This chic piece offers a contemporary twist to intellectual fashion. Its draped neckline flows like poetry, enigmatic and mesmerizing, a testament to the beauty of self-expression.

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Gloria Coelho Short Sleeve Ruffled Blouse 

With its delicate ruffles and captivating aura, it captures the heart of a true Dark Academia aficionado.

Credit: Farfetch

Gucci GG Jacquard Wool Skirt

It’s where the iconic GG logo weaves its narrative—a textured tapestry of grandeur and elegance. In the hands of a connoisseur, this piece metamorphoses into a literary work of art.

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Alexander McQueen Patent Leather Derby Shoes

These shoes epitomize refined elegance. They have the Classic and contemporary interlace, crafting an exquisite symphony for the discerning connoisseur.

Credit: Farfetch

Chloé Marcie Flap Shoulder Bag 

This bag stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship. A sophisticated flap design, like chapters in a novel, adds to the allure of carrying your essentials in style.

Bushra Taimur

With an MBA and work experience in the financial sector, Bushra brings strong analytical, project management, inter- personal & relationship building skills to the table. With a decade long experience in the fashion industry, she is focused on making Haute Secret Shoppers into a fashion giant whilst building great relationships along the way.For collaborations, you can reach out to her at [email protected]