What’s one fall trend I’m excited about this season? Academic Aesthetic! Think back to school vibes with sweater vests, pleated skirts, and your favorite neutral and plaid blazers.

One of my favorite trends I’m seeing this fall season is the academic aesthetic. While I’ve been seeing sweater vest and collared blouses peek into my Instagram feed the last two fall seasons, I saw the term “academic aesthetic” coined in Instagram Insider’s “Fall and Beauty 2021 Trends”. Whether you want to try a lighter or darker academia aesthetic, this trend is mixing preppy pieces in more casual ways.


If you’re looking to build or try the academic/preppy aesthetic trend in your fall wardrobe, here are a few pieces you’ll need:
Cashmere sweaters
If you’re looking for a great layering piece, I recommend investing in a great cashmere sweater. You can layer a sweater vest on top of it or you can wear a collared blouse under it. If you aren’t sure which cashmere to start with, I recommend the crewneck sweater.
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Pleated skirts
Pleated skirts are the easiest way to try out the academic aesthetic look. If you aren’t sure how to style a pleated skirt, you can style them with white sneakers for a casual look -or- style them with combat boots for an edgier look.
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Sweater vests
Say yes to the sweater vest! Another great layering piece or can be worn without any layers.
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Blazers
Like cardigans, blazers are a great fall wardrobe staple. Here are a few neutral and plaid cardigans to help you achieve your academic aesthetic look.
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Boots
To be honest, you could style any pair of boots to create a preppy/academic look. If you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few boots to choose from:
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You can shop my entire look:
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Would you try the academic/preppy aesthetic? Which piece would you add to your wardrobe?
For more fall outfits, I recommend checking out:
Fall Favorites from Free People
Thank you so much for reading!
Love,
Emma
Photos: Holly Phan