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Our social status and what we do in life, what kind of environment we are in, is always reflected in our appearance. Our profession, our hobbies, what we fizz, what we love and what we strive for is reflected in our clothes. Many styles were formed in this way and today we will talk about one of them - history of Dark Academia.

Let's face dark academia history. Dark Academia is a young style, formed on the basis of trends that go quite deep, up to the 19th century. The first mentions on the internet started mentioning in the 2010s. It is clear from the name that academic education, the pursuit of knowledge and learning in general is a big influence here (that is why in autumn dark academia style looks perfect). Much emphasis is placed on the humanities, literature, writing, classical subjects, and Victorian architecture. The aesthetics of this style are largely romanticized by the craving for such knowledge, which in modern society is regarded as symbolic but lacking practical utility. 

As we know, getting a quality education, both in the past and now, is a rather expensive goal, so the Dark Academia style emphasizes quality, which does not imply cheapness and mass appeal. Visual techniques contain elements of European culture and history, American academic society, Gothic - and all this is filtered through the prism of modernity mixed with vintage academia.

However, the influence of preppy style (we will talk more about it in detail) is more noticeable in dark academia looks. In addition, you can see the dynastic influence of old money, although in more pessimistic tones, as well as the most classic patterns. But by inheriting dark academia, you are a teacher rather than a student.

On the other, dark side of this style is the craving for secrets, investigations, the idle or slightly decadent concept of life a la decadence and general mystery. Sometimes they say of the style even as black academia. Also the followers of this aesthetic follow the vital principles of conservatism. This traces and forms of behavior that are criticized: romanticization of bad habits, idealization of classicism, which affects the socialization in such an environment unprivileged members of society. Actually, that is why the style is dominated by dark shades.

Since the main academic objects for the study of "dark academics" are philology and humanities, the central place is occupied by detectives, some intertwined fantasy, classical literature. The benchmark is Donna Tartt's work "The Secret History" from 1992.

In general, the dark academia direction was formed slowly and gradually over a long period of time. The style can be called niche, as its visualization and main identifying sources are social networks, where fans of creative works similar to "The Secret History" mainly communicate on this topic. The dark academia Donna Tartt effect was given publicity by The New York Times, which served to popularize this aesthetic, shaping the visual appearance more actively and giving a new lease of life to the popularity of the canonical founding pieces.

To dress like dark academics, you don't have to be in a melancholic mood all the time and spend days on end at the local library reading Oscar Wilde or make it dark academia autumn period only. It is enough to study a little bit of trends and styles that were fashionable in past eras, and emphasize the quality of tailoring, fabrics and workmanship. The dark academy style is made up of lots of textures and layering. Stylish pairs of jacket+shirt, cardigan+water jacket, free cut sweater+shirt are all great working schemes which must be in your dark academia shopping list. 

The basis for creating a closet will be elements of classic and classic themes. A wide variety of sweaters, polos, blazers and vests guarantee spectacular textures. On a par with them stand, jackets and shirts of any cut. A more elegant silhouette can be created with tight turtlenecks, short cardigans and blouses. 

Dark academia simple and festive elements are more taken in the form of lace, puffy sleeves and elaborate cutouts. The fashions of the past often help - opt for the roaring 20s, or the late 19th century.

As for the lower part of the outfit, the undisputed leader are classic pants. Exclusively natural materials - tweed, wool, cashmere. Choose the silhouette that you like - it can be both palazzo pants and ⅞, slightly tapered, with creases and without.

Skirts are popular with the dark academy and there is a lot of variety here too. You can afford a mini - a tennis skirt in a pleat will look perfect. Tight styles make the whole look more strict, and skirts of flying fabrics give the image of romanticism and lightness.

As for dresses, for everyday wear, models that can be combined with a second layer are chosen. Sarafans, jacket dresses are well combined with thin socks and shirts. If we are talking about festive options, the image and spirit of balls of past eras can inspire you. Corsets, puffy skirts, or the boldness of the 20s of the last century fit perfectly into the dark academia.

One of the most defining items is outerwear. A good coat is always an investment. Of course, choose dark colors, midi length and lower (oh yes - a maxi coat in black will create an unimaginable effect). You can experiment with color and texture as well as print.

Loose-fitting jackets are the basics for every day. All fabrics acceptable for outerwear can go into play. Corduroy and velvet are great for dinner party options, giving a slightly boudoir vibe.

Footwear still pursues timeless values. Quality leather in different treatments, suede, nubuck dominate. The most popular models for both sexes are: oxfords, loafers, derbies, monks, brogues, topsiders. Women's options count in addition Mary-Jane, ballet flats, slingbacks and stiletto shoes for events.

Bags

Messenger bags and tote bags are most often used for everyday affairs. Models are devoid of additional decor, distracting attention. Sometimes a preference is made for backpacks, but these should be vintage models without a sporty exterior, possibly made of leather. 

As for accessories, these are predominantly vintage models in gold and silver. The same elegant minimalism can be traced in jewelry.

Brooches are very popular with academics. The more symbolic, telling a story, a brooch will be, the better.

Leather belts and in some cases suspenders are very popular, as functionality is important for academics. 

Glasses, both sunglasses and optical glasses, are a cornerstone in decorating one's outfit (we remember the fundamental intellectual component, after all).

All sorts of accessories that complement business suits are in honor. Cufflinks, bow ties, breastplates fit perfectly into the look.

In general, as we can see, the style of dark academia can be used by representatives of different walks of life and professions - from a librarian to a famous scientist. Eternal classics and emphasis on quality, reluctance to kitsch and rather calm self-presentation make the followers of the dark academy attractive and desirable, at the same time causing respect and inspiring to improve their own cultural and intellectual level.