What is Light Academia? The Ultimate Guide to Achieving the Dreamy, Intellectual Aesthetic
If you love the idea of cozy libraries, classic literature, and sophisticated fashion, then you might be interested in the light academia aesthetic.
The light academia aesthetic is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for studying, reading, and relaxing. Think soft, muted colors, vintage-inspired clothing, and plenty of natural light.
Whether you’re a student or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of academia, the light academia aesthetic is a great way to infuse your life with a sense of style and elegance. With its focus on literature, timeless fashion, and comfortable surroundings, this aesthetic is sure to inspire you to pursue your passions and live your best life.
So, are you ready to find out more about it?
Let’s delve in.
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What is Light Academia?
Light academia is a relatively new aesthetic trend that emerged as the softer, lighter counterpart of dark academia.
The term “light academia” first emerged on Tumblr in 2014, and it has since gained popularity on various social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest.
The aesthetic draws inspiration from classic and academic styles, with a focus on light, airy colors, vintage fashion, and a passion for learning. Light Academia is often associated with European cultures, particularly the romanticism of the French and Italian countryside. It celebrates the simple pleasures of reading, writing, painting, and spending time in nature.
Light Academia Fashion
If you’re interested in light academia fashion, then there are a few outfits you can consider. Here are some clothing essentials, alongside a color palette.
Clothing essentials
The staples of light academia fashion include:
- Blazers
- Pleated skirts
- Sweater vests
- Dress shirts
- Trench coats
- Oxford shoes or loafers
- Tailored trousers
Color palette
The light academia color palette is characterized by warm, muted colors that evoke a sense of nostalgia and intellectualism. Think beige, cream, camel, and other neutral tones. You can also include romantic colors like pink. Vintage-inspired prints like plaid and houndstooth are popular too.
Outfit ideas
When putting together a light academia outfit, consider pairing a pleated skirt with a sweater vest and a button-down shirt. Loafers or Mary Janes are a great choice for footwear.
For a more casual look, try a flowy dress with ruffle socks and hair ribbons. Trench coats are also great options for outerwear.
Light Academia Books
The light academia aesthetic is heavily influenced by literature, art, and music. These three elements are the pillars of this aesthetic, and they are what gives it its unique charm and appeal.
Classic literature
The aesthetic is inspired by the works of authors such as Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and the Bronte sisters. A love of literature is highly important in light academia, and this is reflected in the way that people dress, behave, and interact with others.
Movies
Light academia movies include those influenced by popular literature, including Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Atonement, and Little Women.
Light Academia House
Architecture plays a significant role in shaping the light academia aesthetic. If you want to design your home or create a beautiful light academia bedroom, here are things that you should consider.
Classical architecture
Classical architecture, which originated in ancient Greece and Rome, has an influence. The columns, arches, and domes of classical buildings have been a source of inspiration, especially for intricate details and grandeur.
If you’re looking to add elements to your home, contemplate decadent bookcases, ornate mirrors, or sculptured decor on your bedroom dresser.
Modern elements
Contemporary decor can be incorporated into your home in the form of chandelier lighting, wall sconces, gold photo frames, glass vases, dried flowers, wooden furniture, and light curtains.
Light Academia and Other Aesthetics
Light Academia, like many aesthetics, has its own unique style and themes. However, it also crosses over with other aesthetics, creating new sub-genres and trends.
Light academia vs cottagecore
Cottagecore and light academia share a love for vintage fashion, natural colors, and a romanticized view of the past. Both aesthetics embrace a cozy, rustic lifestyle, with a focus on nature and simplicity. If you’re a fan of cottagecore, you might enjoy incorporating some of its elements into your light academia outfits, such as floral prints, lace, and straw hats.
Light academia vs dark academia
While dark academia embraces a more brooding, intellectual aesthetic, light academia is more whimsical and dreamy. However, both aesthetics share a love for classic literature and academic fashion. If you’re looking to create a light academia outfit with a touch of dark academia, try incorporating some darker colors, like navy or forest green, and accessorize with a leather-bound book.
Light academia vs romantic academia
Romantic academia is a sub-genre of dark academia that focuses on the romantic aspects of literature and art. It incorporates elements of Gothic and Romantic aesthetics, with a focus on beauty, emotion, and passion.
FAQs
Is light academia like cottagecore?
Light academia is more romantic than cottagecore, with an interest in literature and academics. Cottagecore, on the other hand, embraces rural living, nature, crafting, and simplicity.
What aesthetic is light academia similar to?
Light academia shares elements with romantic academia and ethereal visuals.
What do light academia girls wear?
Light academia girls tend to wear blazers, plaid skirts, cute collared shirts, and berets.
Is Pride and Prejudice light academia?
Yes, Pride and Prejudice is often associated with light academia.
What are some light academia names?
Light academia names often have a vintage or classic feel, with names like Alice, Beatrice, Charlotte, and Henry being popular choices. Names inspired by literature and history, such as Shakespearean names or names of famous writers, are also common.
Light Academia Recap
Now you know a little more about light academia and its aesthetic, you may be interested in incorporating it into your lifestyle.
Light academia is associated with positivity and joy so be prepared to embrace soft and muted tones, an interest in learning and literature, as well as art and music.
Light academia is often viewed as an effortless aesthetic, so make sure you enjoy navigating this trend. After all, it’s meant to bring personal growth and development into your lifestyle.
