Fall Lookbook: Light Academia

Written by Kayla Curry, Camryn Mahnken, Zoe Brown

Photos by Katie Chandler

Models: Kayla Curry, Camryn Mahnken, Zoe Brown

“Alexa, play Campus by Vampire Weekend.” This semester, channel your inner academic for the fall and winter months. The light academia aesthetic is perfect for a posh yet comfortable wardrobe. Here are a few staples for the season that will surely land you on the Dean’s List of campus style.

Sweater vests + button-downs

Create an effortless yet sophisticated fall look with just a quick trip to your local thrift store. An oversized sweater vest paired with a button-down serves the perfect academia aesthetic that will have heads turning. Paired with a pleated skirt and your favorite boots or sneakers, and you’re out the door with minimal effort!

Socks and heels

You don’t have to suffer cold feet to wear your new heels. Pair your heels with some dainty socks. You might even like them better this way!

Midi skirts

Jeans and leggings can get boring. Opt for a longer skirt that can shelter your legs from the wind without sacrificing the look. Check out your local thrift store to find a unique pattern no one else on campus will have!

Mom jeans

Go back to the classics! Light wash or dark wash, a good pair of mom jeans lays the perfect foundation for a casual outfit. Basing your outfit around these is simple, as mom jeans will match almost any top and pair of shoes. 

Neutral prints

Neutral prints are a great way to spice up a fall outfit. Patterns like animal prints, florals, and plaids can give an outfit something extra, and by keeping the color scheme neutral-toned, your outfit will be put together without being too flashy. 

Blazers

Blazers channel your inner mogul and make you look cute while doing it. They’re also perfect for staying warm as the weather grows colder. Whether you’re wearing jeans, dress pants, or even a pleated skirt, blazers pair with just about any fall outfit— professional or casual.

Turtlenecks + dresses

Layering dresses over long-sleeved tops is the perfect way to keep up with the changing temperatures this fall. By opting for a thinner turtleneck underneath, you allow your dress to be the star of the outfit while still being protected from the cold winds. Neutral turtlenecks are easy to find and will pair easily under dresses that you can bring from summer into the fall.

Accessorize!

Accessories can be the focal point of an outfit. Try a y2k-reminiscent shoulder bag or a pair of statement earrings. Put on some dainty necklaces to add a pop to your sweater. You can even accessorize with a beret or bandana on top for the days where doing your hair just isn’t in the cards.