Whether you’re a lover of Gothic literature (Wuthering Heights, anyone?) or more of a Louisa May Alcott fan, fall is the peak time to lean into cozy, nostalgic styles. The most recent one is called poetcore and it comes courtesy of Pinterest’s 2026 Trend Report. The prediction describes it as “[channeling your] inner protagonist with oversized turtlenecks, vintage blazers and messenger satchels,” a look that I’ve seen start to take over the style set this fall.
You may remember the dark academia aesthetic that was popular several years ago. Think of poetcore as a softer evolution of that look. While dark academia had a strongly collegiate vibe that pulled from tailored 1930s and 1940s fashion, poetcore brings in warmer, more romantic, not-so-stuffy style inspiration — think cozy sweaters, vintage brooches, beat-up leather bags and a haphazard scarf or tie. If dark academia is rigid and classical, poetcore is the younger sister who romanticizes her MFA program and has a lived-in wardrobe to match. Less learning, more yearning.
The accessories are what really bring a poetcore outfit together. A tie and a leather satchel are necessities, and an eyelet collar or lace detailing on a hem can add an extra dose of romance. Bows, berets and lace-up boots are great touches too.
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So the next time you’re off to solve a mystery or pen a heart-wrenching poem, try playing around with this aesthetic. You may already own some poetcore staples, whether it’s an oversized tweed blazer, a pair of trousers or the perfect leather loafers. I’ve rounded up some fun options below to add an extra dash of creativity and romance to your fall wardrobe.
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Brooches are the perfect low-risk way to dip your toe into the poetcore trend. You can pin them on your scarf or blouse, or wear them on the collar of your blazer or even on your bag. This $7 option is both cute and budget-friendly, but it’s worth poking around a secondhand store to see if they have any true vintage ones too.
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Tweed and houndstooth blazers are a staple of the poetcore aesthetic. They add a writerly touch to a simple sweater-and-jeans outfit, and you can size up if you prefer a more oversized, slouchy, lived-in look. If you want to take things to the next level, try layering one over a lace blouse and let the collar peek out from underneath.
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Unlike the more structured tailoring of the dark academia aesthetic, poetcore is all about comfort. This chunky cardigan will keep you warm on chilly autumn nights, and the muted hunter green color pairs well with so many colors I’d practically consider it a neutral.
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Combat boots had a huge moment in the 2010s, so if you happen to still have yours like I do, now is a great time to pull them out. Instead of pairing them with skinny jeans like I did in 2015, wear yours with tights and a midi skirt for more of a romantic 1800s vibe.
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Embrace your inner librarian with a vintage-inspired midi skirt like this tweed option. No need for a matching blazer — throw on a slouchy sweater for a more relaxed look, and if you want some added definition around the waist, a thick belt can create some extra shape.
