Exploring Dark Academia Fashion

If the dark academia fashion aesthetic reminds you of the Harry Potter movies costume department, you are spot on. It also has roots in the library stacks of an old university, in Dead Poet’s Society, in the stockroom of a traditional British clothier and of course, in the dark academia literary genre. Television shows like An Unfortunate Series of Events and Sherlock Holmes (the PBS Jeremy Brett version in particular) are also good sources of inspiration and aspiration.

There are two absolutes in dark academia fashion: it should be vintage and it should be in earth tones. While many of the patterns and garment shapes are the same as preppy–tweedy blazers, plaid skirts, high waisted trousers, woolen vests and argyle sweaters–the colors are not. Browns, greens, grays, caramels, rusts and blacks are all well represented.

Where to shop for the dark academic on your list? Your local thrift and consignment, of course. But there are also plenty of choices online. Tip: if you’re shopping online, look for a seller that includes garment measurements and compare those with a garment that fits the intended giftee well.

We’ve found some dark academia choices for her to feature as this week’s picks.

1980s Evan-Picone Plaid Blouse

Plaid is essential. Plaid skirts, plaid shirts, plaid jackets, plaid, plaid, plaid. This long sleeved blouse would be perfect tucked into a tweed skirt or pair of high waisted brown trousers. The nice open neckline would showcase a locket perfectly.

Pleated Wool Wrap Midi Skirt

More plaid, plaid, plaid…this time in the form of a skirt. This skirt is particularly nice because it’s a wrap skirt, a once popular style that not all that common anymore. The midi length is key for when the wind blows. Add some tights and a pair of oxfords.

1980s Patchwork Wool Blazer

If you asked a fashion wizard to conjure all the patterns of dark academia fashion, they would present you with this blazer. Herringbones, tweeds and so many plaids…it’s the perfect jacket.

Once you start collecting dark academia fashion, you can’t stop! Here are a few more picks that would fit right in at Hogwarts or in the fossil department of your favorite museum.