10 Preppy Light Academia Outfits Perfect For Fall

Looking for some inspiration for your next light academia outfit? You’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of 10 stunning light academia outfits that are sure to make you feel like you’re walking the halls of an ivy-covered university.

Light academia, the lighter, more whimsical version of the popular dark academia aesthetic, draws inspiration from the romanticism of literary classics, historical academia, and the cozy ambiance of old libraries, just like its darker cousin.

However, light academia’s aesthetic is notably more focused on colors like cream, beige, white, and light brown, as opposed to darker autumnal shades. As a result, light academia fashion is somewhat more preppy-looking, and some might even describe it as elegant.

If you’re looking to infuse your wardrobe with a few great light academia basics, take inspiration from the 10 chic outfits featured below.

10 Best Light Academia Outfits To Recreate

1. Cable Knits + Mini Skirts

This cable knit and mini skirt outfit is perfect for fall days. Keep the color palette simple with neutral tones, including an ivory quarter zip sweater and a black pleated mini skirt. Finish the look with a satchel-style bag and black lace-up shoes.

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2. Sweater Vests

Sweater Vests are a key part of any light academia wardrobe, and they can be styled in so many different ways. This old-school patterned sweater vest has been styled with a pair of tailored tan pants and a white button-down shirt – so sophisticated!

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3. Cute Cardigans

Throwing a cute cardigan over any outfit automatically adds a light academia touch. This oversized cream cardigan has been paired with a white t-shirt, taupe, black scarf, black mini skirt, and black and white loafers for a preppy finish. The burgundy-toned bag adds a pop of color.

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4. Fall Tones

We love the fall color palette in this light academia look. The caramel-colored long sleeve is styled with a pair of stunning high-waisted chocolate brown wide-leg pants – making this outfit the perfect work look. Add a brown leather handbag, then open-toe shoes or a pair of ballet shoes to complete the look.

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5. Pops of Red

The red socks add a fun and unexpected pop of color to this chic and elegant light academia look! The oversized camel sweater is worn with a black and grey striped mini skirt and black loafers, then accessorized with a pink handbag and red socks.

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6. Plaid Patterns

Adding plaid to any outfit is a guaranteed way to fit right into the light academia trend! This plaid pleated mini skirt is the statement piece of the outfit, styled with an ivory cable knit sweater, black lace-up shoes, and a brown leather satchel – perfect for your school or college essentials.

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7. Trench Coats

If you are looking for the perfect light academia outerwear, then you have to go for a trench coat! A camel-colored trench coat will add a preppy, light academia aesthetic to any outfit – just throw it on over a checked mini skirt, white button-down shirt, and V-neck sweater for the perfect, sophisticated outfit.

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8. Tan shades

Go for a tonal look for your next light academia outfit, opting for tan and camel shades. This tailored camel blazer has been paired with a tan mini skirt and tan knee-high boots. Add a white turtleneck sweater to stay cozy and finish with a white leather handbag.

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9. Cardigans + Collars

This adorable cardigan, with a little collar poking out, is a great way to start a light academia outfit! Style this cardigan with a pair of tailored pants, or a plaid mini skirt, just like you see in the outfit above. Finish your look with a brown beret and knee-high boots.

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10. Sweater Vest + Tailored Pants

This sweater vest and tailored pants outfit are just gorgeous and are perfect for work, school, or college! Stick to light, neutral tones and tuck your white button-down shirt and cable knit sweater vest into a pair of tan-tailored pants. Complete your look with a tan leather handbag and brown-tinted sunglasses.

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