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15 Dark Academia Aesthetic Outfits Worthy of a Spot on Your IG Feed
So moody. So preppy. So cute.
By 
From soft girl to indie, niche fashion aesthetics are taking over in a huge way—and we're very much into it. No matter how you're feeling on any particular day, there's an entire sartorial subculture that you can explore (and shop, obvi). Some are very Y2K-inspired, while others lean more scholarly. Case in point: the dark academia aesthetic. A lil preppy, very moody, and endlessly cool, this particular trend is definitely a must-try (whether or not you're actually a student).
The gist? Dark academia focuses on emulating the vibes of classic literature and romanticizing education—where pretentiousness is welcomed. There are also hints of classic American prep and 19th century upper class. (Specific? Yes. Stylish? Definitely.) Overall, you can expect bookish 'fits complete with dark hues and cozy academic details. And thankfully, dark academia aesthetic outfits are very easy to shop rn. From classic long coats to IG-worthy suiting, this trend will give you everything you want (and more) in a library-inspired, coffee shop-ready ensemble.
To help you fully embrace dark academia—and get le look, of course—you'll find 15 seriously gorg outfit ideas, below. Who knew looking smart was so chic!?
Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Belted Blanket Coat
Throw this gorgeous wool coat on top of anything and it'll look so incredible. Of course, if you're going for a dark academia look, wearing it over an all-black ensemble with chunky loafers is a must.
Pleated Plaid Mini Skirt
Pleated Plaid Mini Skirt
An effortlessly cool ensemble consists of a preppy-cool cream-hued sweater and a pleated plaid mini skirt. That's it. That's the 'fit.
Banana Republic Wool Herringbone Vest
Whether you wear it under a full suit or just atop a button-down and trendy trousers, a suit vest looks super scholarly in all the best ways.
Madewell Dorset Nicholas Glen Plaid Oversize Blazer
If you're just starting to build your dark academia wardrobe, begin with a classic preppy-cool blazer. It'll complement just about any look.
HOTAPEI Oversized Sweater Vest
HOTAPEI Oversized Sweater Vest
Like the suit vest, a sweater vest is a very important layering piece. You can wear this mustard-hued cable knit cutie on top of blouses or under blazers. The possibilities are endless.
Everlane The Way-High Drape Pant
Everlane The Way-High Drape Pant
A simple academic outfit? Pair some wide-leg checked trousers with a black tee and matching blazer, or a basic (or not-so-basic) collared white blouse. Add your fave boots, and you're set.
Heartloom Meyer Mini Skirt
Heartloom Meyer Mini Skirt
A pleated tennis skirt—especially one in this pretty butterscotch shade—will quickly become a staple in your closet. Pair with chunky loafers, a collared knit long-sleeve top, and leather belt in various neutrals for cool girl on campus vibes, or throw a plaid blazer over this pleated mini; you really can't go wrong with this versatile pick.
Oversized Poplin Button-Up Shirt
Oversized Poplin Button-Up Shirt
The billowy silhouette and large pocket this dark green beaut add extra interest, so you can wear it with leather pants, jeans, trousers, or leggings and look incredibly stylish.
Madewell Bouclé Larsen Blazer
Madewell Bouclé Larsen Blazer
If you want to keep it extra cozy, wear a bouclé blazer over a neutral sweater pants and top set.
ASTR the Label Distressed V-Neck Cable Knit Sweater
Everyone needs a few can't-miss sweaters in rotation, and the voluminous sleeves on this cozy beaut make it super unique (but still totally wearable).
Everlane The Field Dress
There's just something about this collared plaid dress that's so adorable. And when it's paired with a cute pair of loafers? You def cannot lose.
Banana Republic Logo Sweatshirt
For those who prefer to keep things casual, try a preppy sweatshirt paired with leather joggers and layered under a classic pea coat. It's comfy and seriously cute.
Heartbreak Tailored Mini Skirt
Adding a plaid mini skirt to your wardrobe is a no-brainer. You can wear it with all neutrals, pair with some platform loafers, or go for a fun pattern clashing vibe.
Topshop Oversize Turtleneck Sweater
The exaggerated silhouette of this pullover striped navy sweater makes it so cool without taking away from the classic preppy-chic vibes. Wear it with jeans, a skirt, or some cream-colored high-waisted trousers.
Eloquii Tweed Blazer
Spice things up with a tailored tweed blazer and matching mini skirt that takes basic suiting and makes it a lil flirtier.
Maggie Griswold (she/her) is a contributing fashion editor for Cosmopolitan and freelance writer and editor based in Los Angeles, covering everything from the latest wardrobe must-haves to interior design trends. Along with Cosmopolitan, you can find her work on Oprah Daily, StyleCaster, Women's Health, and House Digest, among others. She's a big (read: ridiculously huge) fan of the '90s sitcom Frasier, all things Shakespeare, and a good romance-filled YA novel. Follow her on Instagram.
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