Ever since Tim Burton’s Wednesday came into the picture in 2022, the world of the weird has been ruling our screens. From viral TikTok challenges inspired by Wednesday’s iconic dance to countless interpretations and breakdowns of everyone’s favourite goth daughter, Wednesday Addams’ dark academia style. And now, with the return of Season 2 this year, the obsession with the show’s goth glam-esque dark academia style is back in full force. Think buttoned-up blouses, pleated skirts, sharp collars, and fluttery lace.
So what exactly is dark academia? To put it simply, it’s about romanticising the experience of learning—libraries full of leather-bound books, tweed blazers, vintage sweaters, and thin-rimmed glasses. Think of it as the darker, cooler, and eccentric version of prep school fashion. While the choice of garment does play an important role in the Dark Academia aesthetic, the one rule you’ll have to abide by is the colour palette. Let deep hues like black, brown, charcoal, espresso, and burgundy lead you into the farthest, darkest depths of the library. To dress the part, start with staples like a tailored blazer, a black pleated skirt, and a collared blouse. However, dark-coloured silhouettes will still require considered styling for your desired transformation, such as lace stockings, Mary Janes, or chunky loafers, and a signature dark lip.
The best part? Our favourite celebrities are fully on board with this trend. From Jenna Ortega to Billie Eilish and Charli XCX, all have been spotted channeling their inner dark academic selves.
Below, find Vogue Singapore’s guide to nailing the dark academia style.
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Brat Academia
This frilly white blouse, a cinched waist, and a fluid pleated skirt is giving dark academia done the brat way. Go ahead and pair it with sleek glasses and slouchy boots to tie everything together.
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Brunello Cucinelli Pleated Checked Wool Mini Skirt, $1,322
Available at Net-a-porter.
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Amina Muaddi Anok 90 Leather Mid-Calf Boots, $1,985
Available at Mytheresa.
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Not so business casual
Go the sexy route and pair your cropped blazer and mini skirt co-ord set with sheer tights for that extra oomph. Don’t forget a statement bag and matching boots to seal the vibe.
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Jean Paul Gaultier Pinstripe Cropped Wool Blazer, $1,729
Available at Mytheresa.
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Jimmy Choo Rosabel Leather Ankle Boots, $1,767
Available at Net-a-porter.
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Dior Eyewear MissDior S1I Rectangular Frame Sunglasses, $525
Available at Cettire.
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Power dressing
When all else fails, you can always go the classic way. It’s the foolproof outfit formula: a structured blazer, collared blouse and a tweed skirt. Take cues from Billie Eilish herself and accessorise the look with a chic top-handle and a pair of Mary Janes.
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Chloé Lace-Trimmed Ribbed Wool Polo Shirt, $1,874
Available at Net-a-porter.
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Aeyde Uma Velvet Mary Jane Ballet Flats, $561
Available at Net-a-porter.
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Polka mania
Polka dots are all the rage this summer. Take a leaf from Lilly Collins’s book and go for a romantic high neck dress.
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Khaite Colt Glossed-Leather Knee Boots, $3,060
Available at Net-a-porter.
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Saint Laurent Le 37 Cassandre Leather Bucket Bag,
Available at Mytheresa.
