A guide to everyday styling that combines retro and artistic elements
When crisp air whispers through the trees and golden leaves scatter like confetti, the “preppy academia” aesthetic makes a soft but magnetic return. Far from just looking like a student, this style captures a mood—a tender yet determined lifestyle laced with vintage dreams, artistic energy, and gentle rebellion.
In this guide, explore 5 thoughtfully crafted looks that will transform your daily commute, bookstore dates, or solo museum visits into scenes straight out of a cinematic masterpiece. These aren’t just outfits—they’re atmospheres.
Look 1 – Knit Vest + Striped Shirt + Pleated Skirt
- Keywords: Timeless British Touch / First-Love Nostalgia
- Style Breakdown:
- Creamy or caramel knit vest with a slightly loose silhouette for that dreamy, unbothered aura
- Blue or red striped button-down shirt to channel a refined, uniform-inspired aesthetic
- Deep-toned pleated skirt (mid-thigh) for a playful, youthful glow
- Accessories That Speak:
- Chestnut leather loafers, white socks, and a petite shoulder bag
- Moodboard Scene: A quiet date in the library, a dreamy walk on campus, or a journaling session in a sunlit café
- Emotional Word Cue: Tenderness meets tradition, with a whisper of whimsy
Look 2 – Oversized Blazer + Knit Dress + Loafers
- Keywords: Soft Power / Cinematic Main Character Energy
- Style Breakdown:
- Checkered or houndstooth oversized blazer for that commanding vintage drama
- Soft-hued knit dress or collared sweater dress for unspoken elegance
- Chunky loafers or ankle boots to anchor the softness with subtle strength
- Accessories That Speak:
- Round-framed glasses, structured leather tote
- Moodboard Scene: Power-walking through the city, attending a low-lit gallery, or posing for Polaroids in a cozy bookstore
- Power Word Cue: Elegance electrified
Look 3 – Varsity Cardigan + A-Line Denim Skirt + Crew Socks
- Keywords: Sweet Rebel / Playful Academia
- Style Breakdown:
- Varsity-style cardigan with stripes or embroidered badges for instant character appeal
- High-waisted A-line denim skirt for a flattering yet carefree silhouette
- Mid-calf socks + platform sneakers to layer in youthful energy
- Accessories That Speak:
- Canvas tote, baseball cap
- Moodboard Scene: Autumn picnic with friends, sketching in the quad, or spontaneous bike rides
- Resonant Emotion: Freedom, curiosity, and just the right amount of attitude
Look 4 – Peter Pan Collar Shirt + Wool Shorts + Trench Coat
- Keywords: French Innocence / Quiet Luxury
- Style Breakdown:
- A white blouse with an oversized collar for that ultra-feminine spark
- High-waisted wool shorts to balance innocence with tailored sharpness
- Longline khaki trench for layered storytelling
- Accessories That Speak:
- Creamy crossbody bag, velvet headband
- Moodboard Scene: Morning coffee on cobbled streets, office rendezvous, or indie movie nights
- Uncommon Word Cue: Ethereal but grounded
Look 5 – Oversized Hoodie + Tartan Skirt + Leather Shoes
- Keywords: Soft Grunge / Campus Edge
- Style Breakdown:
- Slouchy gray or navy hoodie for that comfort-wrapped confidence
- Tartan mini skirt to channel that classic-meets-chaotic good vibe
- Black leather shoes with scrunched socks for undone perfection
- Accessories That Speak:
- Retro backpack, sporty cap
- Moodboard Scene: After-class strolls, weekend bookstore hauls, urban café moments
- Power Word Cue: Soft defiance wrapped in nostalgia
3 Golden Rules to Nail the “Atmospheric Academia” Look
- Stick to Cohesive Colors: Think nostalgic palettes—cream, mocha brown, deep navy, dusty rose
- Look for Bookish Details: Stripes, crests, collars, tweed—they tell quiet stories
- Balance Layers Thoughtfully: Don’t overload. Let your silhouette breathe. Curate, don’t clutter.
It’s Not Just a Style, It’s a State of Mind
Wearing academia isn’t about mimicking a schoolgirl—it’s about cultivating your inner poet, your gentle strength, your romantic resistance to a world moving too fast.
Dress like a girl who carries a notebook in her bag, a rebellion in her heart, and a story only she can tell.