What is the Aesthetic of Light Academia?

Light academia, on the other hand, is a visually brighter take on its goth-leaning cousin, resulting in a design that exudes a refreshing cheerfulness.

Even if you’re not a student, the inherent appeal of light academics and its preppy nonchalance, as shown by collections of lovely pastel colour palettes, is impossible to resist. The origins of the style may be traced back to the classical influences of European colleges.

Nonetheless, some proponents of the style are pushing it into a new conceptual period. Breaking out from Western canons and incorporating new cultural elements into the mix provides light academics an advantage in attracting a global following.

How should the aesthetic be dressed?

For this look, there is a very precise colour pallet. Cream, brown, beige, and white are common choices, mainly in the shape of blazers and sweater vests. And there’s little doubt they’re in high demand. Light academic searches on Depop began to spike in June 2020 and increased by roughly 900 percent by October.

Tops:

• Blazers
• Turtlenecks
• Corduroy jackets
• Cardigans
• Cable knit sweaters/jumpers
• Button up shirts/dress shirts
• Sweater vests

Bottom:

• Linen shorts
• Dress pants
• Cigarette pants
• Skirts

Outerwear:

• Trench coats
• Pea coats
• Duffle coats
• Overcoats
• Waistcoats
• Uniforms

Shoes:

• Wingtips
• Mary Janes
• Doc Martens
• Oxford shoes

Accessories:

• Headbands
• Glasses
• Hair ribbons
• Hair clips
• Knee high or ruffle socks
• Watches
• Leather belts
• Cufflinks
• Brooches
• Pearls
• Berets

Fashion for Light Academia:

You don’t have to be a bookworm to appreciate academic-inspired fashion’s preppy aesthetics.

Popular selling applications like Depop observed that searches for “light academia” began to increase last summer and then increased by 900 percent in October, indicating that the trend is drawing even more fashionistas.

In comparison, between June and December, searches for dark academia on the same site surged by more than 500%.

Pleated skirts, dress shirts, sweater vests, flowing dresses, button-down shirts, ruffle socks, hair ribbons, and any other aesthetic reflecting college life are all popular on Depop.

The number of pinners labelling light academia apparel and light academia clothing on Pinterest was 236 times higher in December of the previous year.

Faith operates a Depop shop called ‘Thrifting Is For Cool Kids,’ and her huge success is based on academic-inspired designs. Faith’s following increased to over 13,000 individuals and over 750 purchases in less than a year, demonstrating the rapid diffusion of the style.

Light Academia Outfits:

If you’re ready to put together an academic-inspired capsule wardrobe, there are a few important elements you must have. Tops such as long-sleeved blouses, sweaters, and turtlenecks, which can be bought in most vintage clothing stores, provide the foundation of any great academic attire.

However, when it comes to clothing for cooler days, layering is the name of the game. To keep comfortable, replace thick knitwear for lighter materials if you’re dressing for warmer weather.

• Turtleneck Sweater:

Only a silky combination of wool and silk feels nicer on the skin than a turtleneck sweater. Take, for example, this sweater, which is ideal for whatever light academic attire you have in mind. This garment is one you’ll grab for day after day since it strikes the right blend of sloppy and elegant.

• Classic Shirt:

If you’re searching for something more substantial, a classic shirt from Ralph Lauren is a great option. It’ll give you that preppy edge whether you wear it alone or tucked under a sweater with the collar poking out. In addition, the classic shirt looks excellent with women’s high-waist straight-leg jeans.

• High Waisted Classic Trousers:

Now that you’ve decided on your shirts, it’s time to decide on the correct bottoms, and there are plenty to pick from. Whether you prefer trousers or skirts, you can always include the light academic style into your wardrobe by selecting appropriate cuts and lengths.

Tailoring, both crisp and delicate, is always a safe bet, but the proper pair of jeans may also serve as a sturdy foundation for an Instagram-worthy look. Every wardrobe needs a pair of reliable tailored pants, and this high-rise pair by Sandro will not disappoint.

• Pleated Skirt:

When you want to show off your feminine side, choose pieces like this pleated Thom Browne skirt, which is inspired by old school uniforms.

• Chunky Cardigan:

In academia-inspired clothes, being warm and comfy is a must, and I believe there’s no better way to do so than by snuggling up in a nice cardigan.

Also, try investing in a pair of versatile blazers – especially better if they’re emblazoned with collegiate elements like crests or contrasting trimmings. Finally, when the weather drops, make sure you have your beloved coat on standby.

A traditional pea coat or trench coat can keep you warm while also adding a touch of cool to your everyday ensembles. Ted Baker’s chunky cardigan is one of our favourites since it has a form that is both casual and sophisticated.

• Tweed Jacket:

Tweed is another another fantastic fabric for putting together a highly polished light academic outfit, and Chloé’s houndstooth jacket makes us crave for colder weather.

• Shoes:

Finally, an outfit has never been complete without the appropriate footwear. The light academic aesthetic – a style where simplicity and convenience rule supreme – need matching shoes.

As a result, you’ll rarely have to put up with the inconveniences that come with wearing high heels. Oxford shoes, loafers, combat boots, and Mary Janes are just a few of the classic types to explore.

• Roller Glasses:

When it comes to the light academic fashion style, your accessories must be where your personality shows the most.

This two-piece ensemble, in this example, will make your clothing scream light academia from afar: Glasses with rollers. You may boldly declare your “desire for knowledge” while carrying your favourite classic books close by your side with these accessories.

• Satchel Bag:

Adopting a basic and sleek style is the easiest approach to keep us in touch with European cultures (fashion-wise). For example, I propose this Jil Sander satchel bag because of its adaptable and utilitarian style, which will go with a variety of current internet aesthetics.

Check out these D.Franklin spectacles that seamlessly cross the gap between modern and retro to give your edit that vital geeky edge.