Looking to curate the perfect dark academia outfits but not sure where to start? Dive into the world of dark academia fashion with our handpicked selection of 33 dark academia clothing stores that promise to inspire and elevate your wardrobe.
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Dark academia has officially taken the internet by storm, and if you love the vibe of things like classic literature, writing poetry, and cozy bookish interiors, it may be time to update your wardrobe to reflect the dark academia aesthetic.
I for one stumbled upon this fashion trend a few years ago, and I will admit I became a bit obsessed for awhile.
I may or may not have joined multiple dark academia Facebook groups in an attempt to soak up just about everything that related to this style trend, whether it comes to fashion, home décor, or even reading recommendations.
While the dark academia fashion trend is undoubtedly increasing in popularity though, it’s still surprisingly difficult to figure out where to buy dark academia clothes.
After all, there are few dark academia clothing stores that advertise themselves as such.
Finding dark academia clothes and putting together dark academia outfits often depends on your knowledge of not just dark academia clothing stores, but also specific dark academia fashion keywords and ideas of what type of clothing to look for that fits into the dark academia category.
Keep reading to learn more about some of my favorite dark academia clothing stores, and how you can incorporate the dark academia aesthetic into your everyday wardrobe thanks to some tried and true tips I’ve used personally to create my own cozy closet.
What Are Dark Academia Outfits?
Before embarking on your dark academia fashion journey, let’s first understand what constitutes dark academia outfits.
According to The Vou, dark academia fashion takes much of its inspiration from 19th and early 20th century styles — particularly of private school attire in England, and also some American prep styles of the early 1900s as well.
The aesthetic focuses on vintage styles and emulates several historic periods, creating an overall nostalgic look.
My dark academia outfits often focus on classic pieces such as blazers, tights, or oxfords, and they also follow more muted or moody color scheme to further incorporate the trend into my style.
With its muted color palette and timeless appeal, dark academia clothing exudes sophistication in every ensemble.
What Are the Best Dark Academia Colors?
Dark academia fashion of course focuses mostly on dark colors.
Fall and winter tend to be the most popular seasons among dark academia fashion enthusiasts, incorporating traditional dark seasonal colors such as beige, burgundy, dark brown, green, black, etc.
If this doesn’t sound a good representation of your style but you still love the idea of the academic aesthetic though, don’t worry!
Incorporating lighter colors into your dark academia outfits can still help you achieve the look but may fall under the category of “light academia fashion” instead.
I personally love drawing inspiration from both the light and dark academia trends when cultivating my wardrobe for a more versatile collection and varied outfits.
Both categories also still draw on preppy, vintage, and historical styles, making them both an excellent option for an inspired academic look.
Related: 15 Stunning Ancient Greek Jewelry Pieces That Will Level Up Your Style
What Dark Academia Fashion Keywords Should I Search For?
In addition to knowing the 33 dark academia clothing stores below, the other thing that will help you in your search for dark academia clothing is knowing what dark academia keywords to search for.
Most of the stores on this master list don’t focus solely on dark academia clothing, but they have TONS of dark academia clothing options…if you know what to search for.
Check out the list of dark academia clothing stores below, and then try searching for some of the most popular dark academia keywords within each retailer to really hone in on dark academia fashion and easily find what you’re looking for.
Dark Academia Fashion Keyword Ideas
- Plaid skirt
- Pleated skirt
- Blazer
- Oxfords
- Sweaters
- Turtlenecks
- Trousers
- Sweater vest
- Collar shirts
- Trench coat
- Knee-high socks
- Mary Janes
- Leather satchel
- Fair isle sweater
- Oversized sweater
- Wool trousers
- Wool coat
Discover Dark Academia Fashion: 33 Must-Visit Stores for Your Perfect Dark Academia Outfits
Without further ado, let’s get into where to buy dark academia fashion!
1. Nasty Gal
Nasty Gal is by far one of the best places to shop for dark academia clothes.
This is actually where I started building my dark academia wardrobe a few years ago.
While the store offers a wide variety of styles, it’s typically very easy to find dark academia fashion by simply searching some of the dark academia keywords above.
I hadn’t shopped here in years until recently, but I was surprised and impressed with the quality of my last purchase of oversized sweaters and sweater dresses from Nasty Gal.
While some items are probably hit or miss, this is a great option for sourcing affordable dark academia outfits.
Nasty Gal also has steep site wide discounts somewhat regularly, so keep an eye out for sales!
2. Forever 21
Similar to Nasty Gal, Forever 21 offers a wide variety of clothing, from office wear to party dresses.
Simply try searching some of the keywords above to find all things dark academia fashion.
Make sure to keep an eye out for a sale though, as I’ve found this store can be a bit pricey for the quality of the clothing if you don’t snag a deal on certain pieces.
3. asos
Another great place to buy dark academia clothes is of course British retailer asos.
This giant retailer carries hundreds of brands, so you shouldn’t have a hard time sourcing your favorite dark academia clothing, from dark academia sweaters to dark academia dresses and more.
4. Brandy Melville
If you check out the Brandy Melville site, you’ll probably be surprised at how many dark academia sweaters and other pieces you find even on just the homepage.
This is one retailer that is definitely keeping up with internet trends such as dark academia fashion, light academia, cottagecore, etc., so you won’t be hard pressed to find some of your favorite dark academia clothing here.
5. Nordstrom
If you’re looking for quality staple pieces to add to your dark academia wardrobe, don’t sleep on Nordstrom.
While the department store and online retailer may not strike you as a place to buy dark academia clothes, you can actually find plenty of dark academia outfit ideas here.
This is a great option if you’re looking for higher end pieces that will hold up over time.
6. Ralph Lauren
Up your dark academia wardrobe with a luxury piece from Ralph Lauren.
Known for their preppy styles, it’ll be effortless for you to find something that fits the dark academia aesthetic.
7. Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters is known for constantly being on the pulse of the latest trends.
The retailer offers a wide variety of styles from bohemian to hipster, but you’ll still be able source dark academia fashion here by searching for dark academia keywords.
I also love this retailer for apartment and home décor as well!
8. Madewell
From the perfect dark academia blazer to the comfiest pair of jeans you’ll ever wear, Madewell offers an excellent range of quality fashion.
The price point is a bit higher than dark academia stores such as Nasty Gal and Forever 21, but you’ll notice that the pieces are well made and stand the test of time.
This is a great retailer for adding some quality staples to your dark academia fashion wardrobe, and I highly recommend them for jeans in particular (this is the only place I buy my jeans anymore, as the fit is simply unparalleled!)
9. H&M
Looking for places to buy dark academia clothes that are affordable, yet quality?
Try H&M. This retailer offers tons of basics, and you’re sure to find an oversized sweater or two here to add to your wardrobe.
Along with Nasty Gal, H&M is one of my go-to options for anything dark academia due to the reasonable price point and variety of options.
10. TopShop
A brand under asos, you can expect plenty of trendy styles from online retailer TopShop.
I love their selection of cardigans especially, many of which work well with any dark academia wardrobe.
11. Missguided
Another ideal place to search for dark academia fashion is of course Missguided.
This online retailer offers tons of dark academia outfits, such as pleated skirts, oversized sweaters, and more.
Just make sure to search the appropriate keywords, so you can find what you’re looking for!
12. Zara
It’s pretty hard to go wrong with anything from Zara.
Known for their stunning basics, it’s not difficult to find the perfect dark academia fashion pieces to add to your wardrobe here.
13. PacSun
Of all the brands that have experienced major evolutions within the past few years, PacSun has to be one of the most prominent.
While the store used to cater to more of a skater vibe, PacSun now offers a variety of trendy clothing options from cute sweaters to activewear.
There are a lot of great basics available here for an affordable price point that could totally enhance your dark academia outfits!
14. Reformation
Though on the higher end in terms of price point, Reformation is a solid option when it comes to dark academia fashion.
There is a vintage feel to many of this brand’s styles, making this one of my favorite places to buy dark academia clothes.
15. Modcloth
Speaking of vintage styles, Modcloth should be a part of any dark academia fashion lover’s list of go-to retailers.
Some of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe overall are from Modcloth, because so many of their items are totally unique conversation starters.
This brand is also best known for their vintage-inspired looks, so this is one place to buy dark academia clothes that you will definitely want to check out.
16. Aritzia
Another great place to shop for basics, Aritzia delivers on some of my favorite dark academia fashion trends such as wool coats and sweaters.
While a tad on the pricier side, this is a great retailer to snag those capsule items that you plan on keeping in your wardrobe for years.
17. J. Crew
While J. Crew may initially strike you as too preppy to embrace dark academia style, you’d be surprised at what you can find here.
Keeping an eye on the basics and neutral pieces, J. Crew is actually a great place to buy dark academia clothes.
I’ve found that by using dark academia keywords and narrowing down colors, you can actually find many dark academia aesthetic outfits on J. Crew!
18. Banana Republic
Another amazing retailer to shop basics, you’ll love Banana Republic’s selection of trench coats, blazers, sweaters, and more.
19. Saks Fifth Avenue
If you’re looking to add some designer labels and luxe fashion to your dark academia outfits, Saks Fifth Avenue is the perfect place to start.
From dark academia dresses to dark academia makeup, you’ll find plenty of inspiration at this well known department store.
20. aerie
If you’re surprised to see aerie on this list of dark academia stores, so am I!
That being said, aerie actually offers a nice variety of daytime clothing in addition to loungewear, much of which still has a soft and cozy feel.
Keep to neutral/darker colors, and you’re sure to find a few dark academia outfits here.
21. Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch is a favorite retailers for a few reasons.
First of all, it’s one of the few places I like to buy jeans.
Abercrombie also offers a great variety of cozy sweaters and dark academia dresses that can easily fit the dark academia aesthetic.
While not everything will fit under the dark academia aesthetic, you can definitely find some great neutrals here for a reasonable price (even though this brand is more expensive than others, things go on sale often!).
22. American Eagle
American Eagle is another place to shop for dark academia clothes that may surprise you.
That being said, the brand offers a variety of dark academia fashion staples, from cable knit sweaters to dark academia dresses and skirts.
You can also find plenty of light academia and cottagecore inspiration at this retailer as well, for a diverse range of aesthetics.
23. Target
Target is always a good retailer for updating your wardrobe, especially when it comes to the dark academia aesthetic.
From blazers to a dark academia coat, you’re sure to find a few options to add to your wardrobe from this classic and affordable brand.
24. SHEIN
SHEIN is another popular place to buy dark academia clothes.
Known for their affordable fashion, this may be a good option if you’re on a budget.
Buyer beware though, quality could be hit or miss depending on what you buy.
Make sure to read the reviews prior to adding items to your cart, to make sure you get the most out of shopping at this dark academia store.
25. Cider
Cider is a newer retailer on the dark academia fashion scene, but they certainly bring lots of game when it comes to vintage styles.
Cider is also one of the few dark academia stores that is incredibly easy to find dark academia outfits without having to search for specific keywords.
Almost everything on the Cider site has a vintage vibe, so they make it really easy to find pieces that fit the dark academia aesthetic.
I do have to say I haven’t been totally thrilled with the quality of pieces I’ve ordered from Cider in the past, but like a few other brands on here their pieces can be hit or miss depending on what you order. I would say it’s still worth a look, especially if you’re trying to achieve the dark academia vibe on a budget.
26. GAP
While GAP may not scream dark academia aesthetic, the retailer is actually an ideal option for wardrobe essentials and neutrals to pair with your favorite dark academia statement pieces.
27. Etsy
If you’re looking for more unique dark academia fashion, you of course can’t pass up Etsy.
This is a great place to start your search for dark academia clothing if you’re in the market for actual vintage or historical pieces to add to your wardrobe.
28. UNIQLO
Another one of my favorite budget friendly dark academia stores, you’ll love UNIQLO’s mostly neutral clothing options, which will integrate into your aesthetic perfectly.
29. Storets
You don’t have to look too hard on Storets to find dark academia aesthetic clothing, which is what makes this retailer a great choice.
From wool blend pants to sweater vests, this brand has you covered when it comes to dark academia fashion.
30. Lulu’s
While Lulu’s is more often than not advertising bright, floral numbers, you can definitely still find some amazing dark academia dresses and other pieces here.
The brand also has its own “Academia” style page where it features styles specific to the dark and light academia aesthetics, making this a super easy retailer to shop dark academia clothing.
31. PrettyLittleThing
While PrettyLittleThing is best known for its more revealing club attire, you can definitely still find some great dark academia essentials here at this retailer.
32. Zaful
One of the most budget friendly retailers on this list of dark academia stores, Zaful has tons of dark academia dresses, sweaters, and more available on their site.
Not everything on the site is dark academia, but it’s pretty easy to spot aesthetic pieces even as you scroll through their new arrivals.
33. Boohoo
A final budget option, boohoo is a great retailer to shop for dark academia outfits.
They offer a variety of trending styles, but it’s easy to find dark academia staples by simply searching for popular dark academia keywords.
Did this post help you to figure out where to buy dark academia clothes? Which of these dark academia clothing stores is your favorite?
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