Have you been looking for a new style to try for the next school year? If so, I recommend checking out the dark academia aesthetic.
{RELATED POST: The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Academia Aesthetic}
The dark academia aesthetic is perfect for those of us who love to feel cozy and feminine at the same time. So, if you are looking for some outfits that you can wear for the upcoming school year, give dark academia a shot.
To help you in your search for your new wardrobe for the school year, I have put together a list of outfits that give off the dark academia vibe, plus tons of simple styling tips!
Table of Contents
Key Elements of the Dark Academia Aesthetic
Neutrals
Good neutral pieces are one of the most important things you will want to add to your wardrobe to achieve this aesthetic!
Having good neutral basics that you can use to make many different outfits will make styling your dark academia looks so much easier.
And, even though you are going for the dark academia look, which means lots of black, chocolate brown, and camel, don’t be afraid to add some lighter neutral basics like cream to your looks as well.
Fabrics
Fabrics are a fun part of the dark academic aesthetic, which is all about rich textures. You can get creative with the type of fabric that you add to your looks!
For example, you might want to add a leather skirt to make your outfits edgier, or a chunky knit sweater to your outfits to make them more comfortable.
Patterns
Another way to get creative with dark academia looks is with patterns! Patterns like plaid, tweed, or houndstooth are great additions to your outfits to help you achieve this aesthetic.
So, when shopping for dresses, skirts, or even blazers, seek out those classic academic patterns.
Dark Academia Outfit Ideas
Turtleneck Sweater & Pleated Pants
If you are looking for a comfy but stylish outfit that fits the dark academia aesthetic, then I recommend checking out this one.
This outfit comes with a comfy and cute turtleneck that is paired with pleated pants. You can also dress this outfit up a bit by adding some heels or leather boots.
Button-Up Shirt & Leather Skirt
If you want something stylish but also more feminine, I recommend checking out this look! It features a leather skirt and button-up shirt for a vibe that’s one part edgy, one part academic.
The leather skirt will add something unique to your look to help you achieve the dark academia aesthetic.
Also, to finish this look you can pair it with a cute pair of heels or even loafers!
Plaid Tweed Dress
For those of us looking for a dress that gives off the dark academia aesthetic, then you may want to try out this plaid tweed dress.
This dress comes with a simple black and white plaid design and pinafore fit that will make it perfect for the dark academia aesthetic.
Also, it comes in a tweed material that will make you fit the aesthetic even more.
Pinafore Button Dress
If you want a more basic dress that also fits the dark academia aesthetic, I recommend this pinafore button dress.
You can pair this dress with a cute button-up shirt of your choosing to go underneath. Create contrast with white or go dark with a black shirt. You can also pair this dress with your favorite pair of boots or Mary Jane flats to finish the look.
Long Jacket
If you live in an area with colder weather, you might be considering ways to bundle up while achieving the dark academia aesthetic.
If so, you might want to consider this type of outfit! It features a longer jacket, mini skirt, and high-neck top to give you a stylish but warm, layered outfit that you could totally wear in the colder weather.
Oversized Knit Sweater
Also, this is another great outfit if you want to be comfy while achieving the dark academia aesthetic.
This outfit features an oversized knit sweater with a collared shirt underneath to give you that dark academia vibe.
Also, what you will love about this type of outfit is you can pair it with basically any type of shoe, depending on the look you are going for.
For example, you could pair this outfit with some loafers or even some more casual sneakers if you want a look that is a bit more cool and comfortable.
Plaid Blazer Outfit
You might also be looking for an outfit that fits the dark academia aesthetic but is a bit more professional.
If so, I recommend checking out this look! The plaid design will give you the dark academia aesthetic while also making you look a bit more professional with the blazer and pleated pants.
Long Sleeve Pleated Dress
Also, if you are trying to achieve the dark academia aesthetic, you should consider adding a plaid dress to your wardrobe.
For example, this long-sleeve pleated dress with a plaid design would be the perfect addition to your new school year wardrobe. It’s super versatile and can be worn for lots of different occasions from casual to fancy.
Button-Up Shirt & Pleated Skirt
For those of us who like the pleated design, you might want to also consider adding a pleated skirt to your wardrobe.
For example, this pleated skirt and button-up shirt outfit would be great to add to your wardrobe and wear as an everyday look!
To complete this look, you need only add a cute pair of loafers and some ankle socks.
Pinstripe Tailored Dress
Another great dress option that you should consider adding to your wardrobe is a pinstripe dress like this one!
This pinstripe dress, when paired with chunky loafers, will give you a stylish dark academic outfit that you should definitely add to your wardrobe for the upcoming school year.
Peter Pan Collar Dress
Another super cute dress style to consider is the Peter Pan collar dress.
This black dress features a white contrasting Peter Pan collar, which not only gives the dress a super cute design, but also will help you to achieve the dark academia aesthetic.
Neck-Tie Shirt
Finally, if you are looking for a short-sleeved option, check out this neck-tie shirt.
This shirt comes with an adorable neck-tie and stripe design that makes it stand out. Pair it with a black skirt or pants to give you a unique dark academia outfit that you will love to wear.
And, you can finish this outfit with your favorite black heels to complete the look.
Dark Academia Styling Tips
How to Adjust Your Look for the Seasons
Do you live in an area that has warm weather year-round? If so, don’t worry because there are definitely ways that you can adjust your dark academia aesthetic looks to fit a hot climate.
For example, instead of wearing long-sleeved collared shirts, wear short sleeves. Instead of wearing pleated pants, wear a pleated skirt.
These are just some examples of the many ways that you can adjust your wardrobe to fit warmer weather. For more options, make sure to check out this video to see how else you can adjust your wardrobe to rock dark academia in any climate.
Essentials for the Dark Academia Aesthetic
There are certain essentials you need for the dark academia aesthetic if you want to really nail the vibe with every single one of your outfits.
For example, a good pair of Mary Jane shoes or loafers may be just what you need to complete a look. So, check out this video to see a few other things you should consider adding to your wardrobe to achieve the dark academia aesthetic.
Adding a Vintage Twist
Are you trying to add your own unique twist to this aesthetic? If so, then I recommend trying to add more vintage pieces to your dark academia outfits.
This will allow you to get more creative with your looks and find pieces that are unique to wear! Plus, shopping vintage is a great way to save money on your clothes.
What dark academia outfits will you be adding to your wardrobe?
What pieces will you be shopping for to add to your wardrobe? What is your favorite dark academia aesthetic look?