There are 6 main types of Academias and Dark Academia is the latest trend that inspired a lot of people to romanticize their life in quarantine which is the new normal. It is an aesthetic surrounding higher education, literature, and a pursuit for self-discovery. We’ve shown you how to dress for an Light Academia aesthetic, here ways you can dress in Dark Academia:

1. Collar Undershirts

Image source: WTVOX, Instagram / dark.academia.fashion

2. Layering – usually styling with a tie, sweater, and then a blazer

Image source: Little Women, Ralph Lauren Fall 2016 Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show, Ralph Lauren Fall Fashion Show 2006

3. Pleated Skirts

Credit: Wattpad / Soy Sofia, Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion, Instagram / @alis_book_corner

4. Trousers

Image source: modedamour.com, unique-vintage.com, WTVOX

5. Short heels – Doc Martens, Mary Jane, Loafers, Oxford heels or Brogues would add a finishing touch

Credit: Fendi Fall 2011 Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show, aliexpress.com, Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion

6. Hair Accessories – a beret, bow, or hair ribbon

Image source: Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion

7. Dark bag – small mini backpack, side bag, or pouch

Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion, thesassysparrow.com, WTVOX

8. Hold a book – To play more into the literature side of Dark Academia, holding a book in hand or

Image source: WTVOX, Instagram / @b4cchanal, Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion

9. A Metal Neck Piece

Image source: Tumblr / @roryshelf, Tumblr / @polymathwrath, amazon.com

10. Trench Coats – In the winter, drape an extra layer of a large and heavy trench coat on top for a warm and sophisticated look. Wool material looks the best.

Image source: WTVOX, Instagram / @dark.academia.fashion, Tumblr / @sapphicdarkacademia

Overall, colours should be dark (brown, grey, black, or dark green, navy) or neutral (beige, white, light yellow). Usually a bit of both is a good combination but make sure the overall aesthetic is on the darker end!

Ralph Lauren RTW Fall 2016, Reddit / u/silk-moon, tumblr.com