Dark Academia Books & Aesthetic
If you love gothic reads and classic literature, then you'll love the Dark Academia aesthetic.
From your wardrobe to your bookshelf, Dark Academia promotes inclusivity, intelligence and self-expression. It's the perfect style for any book lover!
Take a look at my super simple guide to the wonder that is Dark Academia.
A GUIDE TO DARK ACADEMIA: HOW TO ROCK THE AESTHETIC
What is Dark Academia?
Dark academia is a style that pulls inspiration from classic literature, architecture and the arts, primarily focusing on gothic elements (the dark), whilst reflecting a love of reading, writing and education (the academia).
The style is nostalgic, pulling from fashions seen in 19th-century England, particularly within the upper-classes at private or boarding schools.
Dark Academia derives from classic texts and has been made popular by current novels such as Harry Potter or Normal People by Sally Rooney.
The style is 'preppy' and functional, and the books are rich in language and deep in meaning. What's not to love?!
Why Is The Dark Academia So Popular?
1. IT’S ACCESSIBLE
You don't have to be a rich kid or live in a Georgian manor to feel great in this style. The Dark Academia Aesthetic is popular with people across the world.
High-street shops such as Zara and H&M have caught on. This literature-inspired style is growing in popularity every day!
2. IT’S INCLUSIVE
Gender free! Dark Academia has no boundaries. Most items of clothing are unisex and don't adhere to stereotypes. The vintage style takes inspiration from classic texts rather than current trends, making it an open aesthetic for all to enjoy.
3. IT’S SUSTAINABLE
Dark Academia fashion is everywhere! You can find fantastic items in charity shops or online sites such as de-pop. The style is based on historical literature rather than current trends, and so it will never go out of fashion, and you don't waste clothes!
4. IT’S “NOT JUST FASHION”
Dark academia is not just a 'chic' style of fashion; it's also a hobby and, ultimately, a way of life. Invite Dark Academia into your home with beautiful gothic prints and to your bookshelf with classic authors and poets.
Find The Style:
Whether it's in your wardrobe, decorating your walls or waiting on your bookshelf, Dark Academia has a place in every book lover's life.
Take a look at how to achieve this style:
Your Dark Academia Wardrobe
Think preppy, chic and relaxed.
● VINTAGE
Try to buy from second-hand stores or recyclable online shops to make the most of this style. It is based on literature that will never go out of fashion, so the aim is to mimic that with our aesthetic.
● WOOLLEN
Warm and cosy - woollen jumpers, socks and coats are essential. The thick materials replicate a moody, gothic autumn day. Of course, you can lighten the fabric with natural linen or organic cotton during spring and summer.
● SCHOOL INSPIRED
Dark academia is like taking all the good bits from school and bringing them into your daily life. The aim is to mimic your intellectual soul.
Think blouses, trousers, blazers, comfy shoes and even ties. The Dark Academia style takes the 'school look' and revamps it.
● LAYERS
Coats, jackets, jumpers, short-sleeved, long-sleeved, you name it! Don't be afraid to layer up in this style.
● AUTUMNAL COLOURS
A gorgeous palette of burnt orange, deep red, caramel brown, forest green and moody mauve, set against a crisp white or cleansing nude. Simple yet beautiful.
Your Dark Academia Bookshelf
Now we're onto the good stuff! Here is a list of my Top 23 Dark Academia books to read, both classic and new:
CLASSIC READS
Dracula by Bram Stoker
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
The Fall of the House of Usher and Other Tales by Edgar Allen Poe
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole
NEWER READS
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
A Lesson In Vengeance by Victoria Lee
People Like Us by Dana Mele
Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth
Wilder Girls by Rory Power
The Truly Devious Series by Maureen Johnson
Catherine House by Elisabeth Thomas
We Wish You Luck by Caroline Zancan
Dead Poets Society by N. H. Kleinbaum
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever
Don't forget to hold your page in true bookish fashion with these gorgeously moody Dark Academia Bookmarks. There’s also a Gothic Authors Bookmark Set, perfect for your classic reads.
Your Dark Academia Home
● FURNITURE
Big mirrors, oak cupboards, gothic lamps and large armchairs; we love the look! Dark Academia style furniture is available on Etsy or Gumtree and can look as modern or as classic as you like!
● CANDLES
Nothing sets the mood like a matching smell! Treat your room to a cosy scent with a book inspired candle like this Cozy Vibes candle from Fromthepage.
● READING NOOK
A great way to focus on your reading and inspire your mind is to set up a reading nook. Opt for a large armchair and rich colours for a Dark Academia corner of heaven.
Read More: How To Create The Perfect Reading Nook to find your perfect place.
● PRINTS
Prints are perfect for inspiring any room. Whether it's a mysterious quote from George Elliot or a dark starry night silhouette, beautifully illustrated gothic prints are available at the click of a button. Head over to our shop to find your perfect Dark Academia print.
Read More: Are you unsure how to arrange your prints? I have put together the ultimate guide; check it out - 12 Ways To Arrange Your Prints Like a Pro.
● BOOKMARKS
A booklover's best friend. Enjoy your dark academia reads with a matching bookmark for a truly encompassing style.
● PHONE BACKGROUNDS
Some aspects of this style don't have to cost you a penny! Change your phone or background to a Dark Academia style wallpaper to inspire your everyday.
I hope you love the Dark Academia literature and style as much as I do. If you have any other gothic tips and tricks for me - please get in touch!
