The 28 best dark academia gifts for 2024

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Recently updated on March 27th, 2024 at 03:30 pm

Picking out gifts can be a daunting task. Here are the 20 dark academia gifts you’ll want to keep

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Have you ever craved studying in an old library under candlelight? Fancy reading classic literature in the corner of a cute coffee shop?

If so, you understand the appeal of Dark Academia.

The dark academia aesthetic centres around a love of literature, the arts and intellectual pursuits. Characterised by dark and moody fashion, this aesthetic gained huge popularity online.

But finding the ideal gift for a dark academia fan is tricky. Maybe they enjoy visiting museums. Maybe they enjoy long walks in the rain. Or maybe they could spend hours at a local bookshop.

Regardless of what type of giftee you’re buying for, I’ve got you covered. Here are the best dark academia gifts.

This post is all about dark academia gifts

What is the Dark Academia Aesthetic?

Dark academia is social media aesthetic that romanticises learning. It places a heavy emphasis on reading, writing and learning. It’s the romanticization of learning. It’s often associated with classic literature, Latin, tweed and brooding poetry.

Disclaimer – Why is Dark Academia problematic?

There have been some criticisms of Dark Academia. One important criticism is the lack of diversity in Dark Academia.

Many people have commented on how eurocentric and white-dominated this aesthetic is because it’s linked to old universities such as Oxford. 

I think it’s really important we change that stereotype of academia. Below I’ve linked some wonderful posts and creators you can look at:

How to dress Dark Academia and POC Book Recs

R C Waldrun – Incredible Youtuber who posts about Dark Academia 

What are the best dark academia gifts?

1. Letter Seal Stamp kit

Letter Seal Stamp Kits make excellent dark academia gifts. The dark academia aesthetic romanticises learning, writing and journaling. These ornate metal stamps come with different initials. Perfect for writing dark academia style letters.

They look so much more expensive than they are. This Seal Stamp kit will take pride of place on any dark academia fan’s desk.

2. Blind date with a book

A blind date with a book is a mystery book, wrapped up and delivered to your doorstep. This is a fun idea for a gift and adds a bit of mystery. This is a perfect gift for dark academia fans who enjoy reading.

A blind date with a book is a fun surprise. And ideal for anyone who struggles picking their next read. It also means they might read a book they wouldn’t have picked up otherwise.

3. Bust Statue Pen Pot

Many aesthetic dark academia rooms use bust statues as plant pots or pen pots. They can store anything from pens or plants. They also instantly make any space look more moody and romantic.

They’re both budget-friendly and practical. If you know a student, writer or creative person they’re guaranteed to use this a lot. They look fantastic on a dark academia desk setup.

4. Beautiful clothbound books

 Special collectable editions of books are an excellent choice. Any dark academia will be proud to display a beautiful edition of their favourite classic on their shelves. Barnes and Noble, Penguin, Puffin and MinaLima all sell beautiful clothbound editions of classics.

A stunning edition of their favourite book is sure to make any bookworm happy. I’m a huge fan of the Wordsworth editions (featured above). You can buy these on Amazon – check them out here.

5. Scented Candle

Candles always make an excellent gift. And Etsy is full of candles perfect for dark academia lovers. This Frankenstein Candle features a quote from the book and amber jar. The dark and moody design is reminiscent of dark academia.

This Etsy shop sells a range of candles perfect for Dark Academia fans. With candles inspired by the Dead Poet’s Society, Dracula and Phantom of the Opera.

6. Skull Candle

Affordable, practical and beautiful – candles make perfect gifts. And these statue and skull candles are ideal for the dark academia aesthetic.

Statues, gothic literature and greek mythology are all commonly associated with the dark academia aesthetic. So this skull statue Candle is perfect.

7. A Beautiful Journal

Journaling has increased in popularity recently. And I can see why. This creative offline hobby is great for mental health. Plus it helps improve your writing.

I would recommend the Archer and Olive bullet journals. They’re beautiful quality. And they’re available in a range of colours and designs. Beautiful leatherbound journals are an excellent gift for dark academia fans. Especially when given with a beautiful fountain pen or quill and ink set.

8. Quill and ink set

If you’re getting a seal stamp kit or leather journal – a quill and ink set also makes an excellent choice. They lookbeautiful displayed on any desk.

A quill and ink set is perfect for anyone into journalling as it really helps practise calligraphy. It also forces you to take your time writing. Making it a much more mindful activity.

9. Bookmarks

Bookmarks are a great budget gift idea. The bookmark above is ideal for a dark academia fan who likes to read. It allows you to track what books you’ve read.

You can also find bookmarks for their favourite books. Etsy has many great options that tend to be under £5. As these are good value, you can pair with another item such as a book.

10. Gramophone record player

Do you have a bigger budget? This is probably the most expensive item on this list. But just look at this record player! How gorgeous would this look in any dark academia inspired room?

This is also a versatile piece as it features a turntable, Bluetooth player and FM radio. Perfect for streaming both classic music and modern favourites. This will make a statement in any interior.

11. Cavallini and Co posters

I first saw these beautiful posters on Ruby Granger’s Youtube channel. And I was instantly obsessed! The vintage -inspired style make them perfect for dark academia-inspired rooms.

They have so many beautiful posters I could recommend – including dinosaurs, mineral rocks and maps. But the colours on this astronomy print are insanely beautiful.

12. Tote Bags

Practical, affordable and aesthetically pleasing. What more could you want in a gift. Tote bags are super versatile – you can carry around books , or shopping in them. You can also use it as your main handbag.

You can find many options online. This mystical tote bag is the perfect companion to any dark academia outfit. Made from 100% organic natural cotton and linen. The shop sells similar design tote bags, with moth or light designs.

14. Cosy sweater

A love of learning, literature and mythology characterises the dark academia aesthetic. So this Artemis sweater is a fantasy gift for dark academia lovers. Plus, cozy sweaters make great gifts.

In Greek Mythology, Artemis was the Olympian goddess of the hunt, the wilderness and wild animals. She was also a goddess of childbirth. This sweater is available in a range of colours including brown and black. So you can choose the best colour for them.

15. Skeleton T-shirt

You can find some adorable dark academia tees. This t-shirt is versatile and can be combined with a variety of outfits. Whether that’s jeans, a plaid skirt or as a cute PJ top.

The t-shirt pictured is from Nerdcakes and Company. You can get it in white, orange or natural. Check out their Etsy shop here.

16. Chess set

If you want to buy a gift that will be used – a chess set could be an excellent option. You can find chess sets to fit every budget on Etsy. Handmade, vintage and even magnetic.

This personalised chess set has a marble black and white design. The base is made of high quality metal and you can personalise the chess board. A luxurious gift for chess fans.

17. Book binding kit

Fans of the dark academia aesthetic love learning. Intellectual pursuits and hobbies form part of this, whether that’s chess, journaling or writing. Book-binding is a fun hobby for any book lover. In this series of videos, That’s My Bookshelf rebinds their books into the Penguin Clothbound Classic aesthetic.

This bookbinding kit is the ideal starter kit for anyone interested in learning the craft. It contains 23 items with all the basics you need to start bookbinding. It’s the perfect choice for beginners. You can also find many tutorials on Youtube for anyone interested in getting started.

18. Penhaligon’s Perfume

Perfume is a classic gift. And it’s always a joy to receive a new perfume. To an extent, perfume is a personal choice. And you need to know the person.

But if you’re looking for dark academia inspired perfumes – I recommend Penhaligon’s. The bottles are very luxurious. And they give off dark academia vibes.

19. Fountain pen

There is something about a nice quality pen that makes you feel classy and luxurious. A beautiful pen is useful to keep with you. And if you need to sign something you can feel grown up and sophisticated.

This faber-castell pen features a beautiful pearwood with a fairly modern design. If they’re into journaling or letter writing, this is a thoughtful gift.

20. Adult Painting by Numbers

Many dark academics are into more creative pursuits. I enjoy painting but I’m not the most talented artist. With adult painting by numbers you can feel artistic as a beginner.

You can find many designs online. I’ve picked this version with the sunflowers because it looks more beginner friendly. You can pick it up on Amazon. On a budget? You can find printable versions online. Ideal if you already have paints. Get the printable colour by number pages here.

21. Dark Academia wall art

Spruce up a bedroom with some dark academia inspired wall art. Etsy is full of beautiful dark academia art. This ghost print would look fantastic on a gallery wall with dark academia prints and mismatched frames.

This poster does come unframed. However, you could find similar frames to the one above from antique shops or thrift stores.

22. Ruffle socks

No matter how many socks you have, you can never have too many. These ruffle socks look adorable with loafers or Mary Janes. And you can guaranteed that they probably don’t have a similar pair of socks at home. #

Socks make a useful gift. These are good value, nice quality. If you’re buying this as a Christmas or Birthday gift, they would make an excellent stocking filler.

23. Travel Mug

This travel mug is perfect for anyone who spends hours at the library. The Tarot design and skeleton give this mug a dark, spooky feel.

This travel mug will keep most beverages at the perfect temperaatyre. Whether you’re on a long walk, at a museum or in a library, this mug is designed for those on the move.

24. Leather Satchel

Does your giftee carry around books all day? Then they will need a sturdy bag. Leather satchels are a classic. Both stylish and longwearing, they’re perfect for lugging around all the everyday essentials.

The leather satchel above can be personalised with intials. You can even choose between black or gold for the personalisation.

25. Blue light glasses

Spend hours on a computer? Most of us use a computer for work or studying. Regardless of whether you are a fan of dark academia, blue light glasses are a great investment.

Blue light glasses protect your eyes from computer and cell phone screens. Plus, these wire frame glasses instantly give off studious vibes.

26. Wall decor kit

Wall collage kits are ideal for students. Or for anyone wanting to spruce up a desk setup. These printable kits contain a range of dark academia inspired postcards.

These kits are a cheap and easy way to decorate a desk area. The above kit contains 160 vintage and dark acadrmia inspired prints.

27. Whisky decanter set

Need to unwind after a long day of work or studying? Live your best dark academia life with a whisky decanter set.

These decanter sets look undeniably stylish in any space. You could pair this with candles and a moody print for a dark academia inspired bar area. This whisky decanter set is inspired by 1920s art deco americana. It is also made from premium, pressed lead free crystal.

28. In books, freedom sweater

Dark academia is inately cozy. Often associated with Autumn, it reminds me of rainy days and long hours spent in bookshops. This sweater is the perfect, cozy dark academia item.

What could be more appropriate for dark academia, than a sweater with the slogan ‘ in books, freedom’?

Those were my picks for the best dark academia gifts

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