Dark academia is an aesthetic that is sweeping social media.
Thus, intricate libraries, prestigious educational institutions, books, and more are central themes.
Dark academia is also inspired by Greek mythology and gothicism.
Natalie Black, from the marketing agency Hierarchy, explained why to The New York Times.
Black noted that the book turned “the entire aesthetic into an actual lifestyle.
Although dark academia is classic and undeniably vintage, it still appeals to modern audiences.
Clothing staples toachieve a dark academia aestheticinclude blazers, turtle necks, and trousers.
In her caption, she says that scientific illustrations were her inspiration.
These illustrations were used before the advent of photography for medical and research purposes.
@palindromepolished notes that she used a nail stamp to create this look.
In adifferent photo, she shows a similar floral manicure in shades of green and gray.
Think plaid and preppy
Dark academia is an elevated version of a preppy style.
Her manicure features shades of cream and black with a plaid accent nail on each hand.
Its neutrality will complement any dark academia outfit.
The cover features a snake that will make an excellent nail design for your dark academia manicure.
@nail.art.by.teashows how alluring a black and white snake design can look on nails.
@lavendernails_colonnadesdid a snake design on almond nails with tiny rhinestones for added shine.
Pick a deep red shade
Red nails, specifically oxblood nails, will never fade into obscurity.
They’re edgy, yet straightforward.
Their vampy look seamlessly blends in with a dark academia aesthetic.
Instagram user@_mirage.nailsdid an oxblood shade manicure on natural nails.
Although they are unadorned, they exude sophistication.
@nail.kandypainted pointed almond nails in an oxblood and black gradient.
While this manicure has a gothic influence, it’s still fit for a moody dark academia aesthetic.
If you like color with a little more sparkle, choose aholographic oxblood nail polish.
A traditional French manicure features a nail in a pink or nude shade with a white tip.
For example,@gabriela.aestdisplayed her black French manicure on Instagram.
@darlenesnailsdid a brown French manicure on almond-shaped nails.
These neutral shades call into use the dark academia color palette used in clothing, books, and beyond.
Focus on shades of gray
Gray is a subtle color that gets a bad rap.
However, gray is an exemplary shade for the dark academia aesthetic.
Gray conveys intelligence and authority, as explained byColor Meanings.
As aforementioned, dark academia is based on education.
The classics and art are essential for this aesthetic.
you’re able to easily pay homage to these themes using your nails.
@kozmeticki_salon_infinitasdid a simplegray manicurewith specks of black and the outline of a face on one nail.
This manicure is minimalist but exquisite nonetheless.
Opt for a design fit for your glasses and nails
My tortoiseshell kit in action!!!
But if you want to take it up a notch,try tortoise shell nails.
it’s possible for you to opt for a brown hue or a reddish shade for this look.
Instagram user@heymichelleleechose a tortoiseshell pattern on her heart-shaped nail tips.
@naturallynailstracydid a tortoiseshell manicure combined with oxblood-colored nails.
In a TikTok, user@nailthoughtsshowed how she creates this elaborate look on a client’s nails.
Make it marbled and moody
A marble design is another option for dark academia aesthetic nails.
@kkonyo_nail’s gray marble manicure strongly resembles the stone in color and appearance.
If you prefer a bolder look, TikTok user@abigailnaillab_created a decadent black marble manicure on coffin-shaped nails.
Thus, your dark academia nails should integrate fall colors into your manicure.
Inanother manicure, she used three different brown and nude shades for a similar fall-inspired look.
@xbethanymariepaired a brown-red polish with two nude accent nails and delicate tortoiseshell detail.
