Dark Academia Makeup: How To Achieve This Soft, Aesthetic Look
If you’re a fan of the dark academia aesthetic, you’re likely already familiar with the signature fashion, literature, and art style. But have you considered incorporating it into your makeup routine as well?
Dark academia makeup is all about creating a moody, mysterious look that complements the dark and intellectual vibe of the aesthetic.
To achieve this look, keep your dark academia makeup simple and focus on neutral tones like browns and golds for your eyeshadow, and opt for a bold, dark lip color. Think deep reds, purples, or even black. You can also experiment with a more natural, “no-makeup” makeup look that emphasizes your features without drawing too much attention to them.
Whether you’re going for a full-on dark academia aesthetic makeup look or just want to incorporate a few elements into your routine, there are plenty of options to explore.
So let’s have a look at a few dark academia makeup looks to discover some inspiration.
Related posts you may like:
- 13 dark academia bedroom ideas
- 27 dark academia nails for a stunning aesthetic
- The best dark academia outfits to inspire your closet
- What is the light academia aesthetic?
- 12 best dark academia colleges UK
- 30 best bookshops in London
- Rare Beauty Eyeshadow Stick review
Dark Academia Aesthetics
If you’re looking to explore the world of dark academia makeup, it’s important to understand the aesthetics that define this style.
What is dark academia? Dark academia is a literary-inspired subculture that is characterized by its love for vintage, gothic, and Renaissance elements. It’s a style, heavily influenced by classic literature, art, and architecture.
One of the defining features of dark academia is its focus on academics and the pursuit of knowledge. This is reflected in the clothing, makeup, and accessories that are associated with this aesthetic. Think tweed blazers, oxford shoes, and vintage-inspired makeup looks.
Gothic elements are also a key part of dark academia. Black, grey, and other dark colors are often used in dark academia makeup looks to create a moody and mysterious vibe.
Vintage elements like cat-eye eyeliner and bold red lips also work well.
Dark Academia Makeup Looks
When it comes to achieving the perfect dark academia makeup look, selecting the right color palette is key. The Dark academia aesthetic is all about natural, muted tones with a focus on black, brown, and earthy hues.
Get this eye look with the Too Faced Pumpkin Spice Palette.
To create a flawless base, start with a high-quality concealer that matches your skin tone. This will help to cover any blemishes and create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. For a natural, sun-kissed look, add a touch of bronzer to your cheeks, forehead, and chin.
Next, it’s time to focus on the eyes. Dark academia eye makeup is all about subtle, understated eye makeup. Opt for a neutral eyeshadow palette like the Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Palette with shades of brown, beige and cream. You can use a darker shade to define your crease and add depth, and a lighter shade to highlight your brow bone and inner corner.
Get the above lip look with Vieve Powersuit Lipstick.
To complete the look, add a touch of mascara to your lashes to make them look full and voluminous. For a more dramatic effect, you can add false lashes as well.
How To Recreate Dark Academia Makeup
To achieve the dark academia makeup look, there are a few key elements that you should keep in mind.
Here are some of the best dark academia makeup products and brands to consider.
Eyeliner
Eyeliner is a crucial element of the dark academia makeup look. It should be understated with a line that follows the natural shape of your eye. Black or brown eyeliner like the Charlotte Tilbury Rock n Kohl Brown Eyeliner Pencil is best, as it creates a soft look.
Blush
Blush is an optional element, but it can add a touch of color to your cheeks and help to create a more natural, healthy glow. Choose a muted or earthy tone like Taylor Swift, such as rose or terracotta, and apply it lightly to the apples of your cheeks. Charlotte Tilbury Blush in Pillow Talk is a good option.
Contour
In addition to blush, you can also use a contouring powder like MAC Sculpt and Shape Contour Palette shades to define your cheekbones and create a more sculpted look. Use a light hand and blend well to avoid any harsh lines.
Lips
For the lips, it’s best to stick to neutral or muted tones, such as beige or brown like MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick.
However, don’t be afraid to go for a dark red or plum. Matte lipsticks or lip stains are recommended, as they create a more sophisticated and long-lasting look. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Blurs are a great option for this look.
Dark Academia Makeup for Different Seasons
When it comes to dark academia makeup, it’s important to consider the season you’re in. Here are some tips for the type of makeup you can wear for different seasons.
Fall makeup
Fall is the perfect time to embrace the dark academia aesthetic. For your makeup, you can go for a warm, earthy look. Use a brown or burgundy eyeshadow and pair it with a nude or dark lipstick. Also, add a little bronzer like Anastasia Beverly Hills Bronzer in Rosewood to give your skin a natural glow.
Winter makeup
Winter is all about staying warm and cozy. When it comes to dark academia makeup, use this season to experiment with bold and dark colors. Try a dark red or purple lipstick and pair it with a smoky eye. You can also use a cream blush to give your cheeks a rosy glow.
Spring makeup
Spring is the season of renewal and growth. For your dark academia makeup, opt for a fresh and natural look. Use a light foundation or tinted moisturizer and add a pop of color to your cheeks with a pink or peach blush. You can also use a light eyeshadow and mascara to make your eyes pop.
Summer makeup
Summer is all about enjoying the sunshine and warmth so go for a natural and minimalistic look. Use a tinted moisturizer or BB cream and add some bronzer to give your skin a sun-kissed glow. You can also use a light lip gloss or lipstick to complete the look.
Dark Academia Makeup Brands
There are plenty of great dark academia makeup products to choose from.
I’ve listed some makeup items in this guide, but here are some brands to consider if you want to adopt the dark academia makeup look.
Tips for Incorporating Dark Academia Style into Your Everyday Look
If you’re passionate about dark academia and are fairly new to makeup, there are a few things you can do to incorporate the aesthetic into your daily look.
Firstly, add the key makeup trends associated with dark academia, one at a time. You could begin with neutral eyeshadows, then try bold brows, and a matte lipstick.
Try out different tones of lipstick to see which hue suits your skin tone the best. You can also try out different shades in varying seasons – for example, wearing softer shades in spring and a bolder lip in fall.
If you’re not sure where to start, take inspiration from social media platforms like TikTok, where users often share their take on the dark academia aesthetic.
FAQ’s
How do you achieve a classic dark academia makeup look?
To achieve a dark academia makeup look, start with a natural-looking, even base. Use a light coverage foundation or tinted moisturizer and a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles.
For the eyes, use neutral or earthy tones like browns, greys, and greens. Add some depth by using a darker shade in the crease and smudging a bit of eyeliner along the lash line. Finish with a bold lip color like a dark red or burgundy.
What are some recommended brands for dark academia makeup?
Some recommended brands for dark academia makeup include Glossier and Charlotte Tilbury. These brands offer a range of products that fit the dark academia aesthetic, including natural-looking base products, earthy eyeshadows, and bold lip colors.
What is light academia makeup and how does it differ from dark academia makeup?
Light academia makeup is a softer, more romantic version of the dark academia aesthetic. It often features lighter, more pastel colors, like pinks and purples, and emphasizes a natural, glowing complexion. While dark academia makeup is more dramatic and moody, light academia makeup is more whimsical and dreamy.
What are some popular hairstyles to pair with a dark academia makeup look?
Some popular hairstyles to pair with a dark academia makeup look include messy buns, braids, and loose waves. These hairstyles have a relaxed, effortless vibe that complements the natural-looking makeup. You can also add some hair accessories like berets, headbands, or hair clips to complete the look.
What is the difference between dark academia and cottagecore makeup?
While both dark academia and cottagecore makeup share a natural, earthy aesthetic, they differ in their overall vibe. Dark academia makeup is more dramatic and moody, while cottagecore makeup is softer and more romantic. Cottagecore makeup often features lighter, more pastel colors, like pinks and yellows, and emphasizes a natural, glowing complexion.
Experiment With Dark Academia Makeup Today!
Dark academia makeup is an exploration of natural, earthy tones, moody makeup, and bold hues. From velvety hues to black liner and muted textures, this makeup trend connects the interesting world of intellect, creativity, and emotion.
Try out different tones to discover what suits you best. Remember, makeup is a fun way to enhance your natural beauty and complement your personal style. Don’t be afraid to get creative and see what looks you can come up with.
