If you’re on Tik Tok, you’ve most likely heard about the hot new trend for this fall season. For those of you who don’t know, we’ll catch you up to date on all the latest details.

Dark Academia is a mix of “Harry Potter, but make it fashion” with a touch of business casual. Think black sweaters and neutral plaid, or a simple maxi dress with a suit jacket, topped off with a witchy hat. Pieces from the darker colors of the spectrum with a hint of timeless vintage accessories complete the Dark Academia wardrobe. This fashion style is tailored to suit wandering around bookstores and journaling in a coffee shop during the chilly, spooky season.  

More than just fashion, Dark Academia is a lifestyle incorporating the arts. Artists like Hozier, Sufjan Stevens, or anything from the Twilight soundtracks are perfect for Dark Academia vibes. Shows like Gilmore Girls, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and some parts of Black Mirror are also the best shows for getting into the right mood. While Dark Academia and its related shows and music are definitely fall-inspired, there’s a lighter side to the style too: Light Academia! Inspiration stems from timeless novels and dramas filled with nature, such as “The Secret Garden.” 

Light Academia can be described as the same business casual wear from earlier, but brighter. This style brings the pieces of Dark Academia into a lighter, cottagecore space. With Light Academia, we’re talking white silk shirts and cream-colored coats, paired with dainty jewelry like elegant pearl earrings. Don’t forget flowy white linen dresses, flower arrangements, and cashmere cardigans, and you’re all set for a stroll in the garden. The wardrobe for Light Academia revolves around pieces you can wear anywhere, from a sunny picnic date to a walk in an art gallery. Add in coffee with extra cream and sugar and you’ve hit the mark. Movies like Little Women and Call Me By Your Name showcase the light academia aesthetic through and through, and Cigarettes After Sex (+ soft French music, of course) has some great songs to capture the mood.

Whether you choose Dark or Light Academia, you are sure to be the main character in the nearest old bookstore this fall.

For more inspiration, check out this Dark Academia Pinterest board or this Light Academia one!

…

Written by Gem Prigmore & Vanessa Hernandez, Photography by Breanna Gamble, Graphics by Courtney Ward