A Look & A Book
By Elana Katz
Shop this article: https://bookshop.org/lists/beauty-readin-magazine *affiliate linkForget Pinterest and Instagram, real style inspiration comes from the place you already spend most of your time –- your bookshelves. Luckily, it’s easier than one might think to dress like you stepped right out of the pages. We’ve put together a few looks inspired by some of our favorite books written by Black authors, and while these looks might not be exactly what the characters are wearing, it’s the vibes that really matter.
Preppy
Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
While no one should ever want to actually attend the fictional school in Ace of Spades, there’s still some inspiration to take from the prep school aesthetic. For this look, all you really need is a plaid mini skirt, and then you can play with it from there. In its simplest iteration, a crisp button down and cardigan will do the trick, but you can also take it a step further with a tie and a vest. Keep the accessories simple here and add loafers and tights, or knee high socks, to finish the look. Something sinister may be happening to the characters in Ace of Spades, but this type of outfit is very innocent.
If there’s one thing Eve is going to do, it’s wear whatever she wants and whatever she feels comfortable in. This aesthetic is all about wearing colorful and joyful clothes, but in styles that are comfortable and easy to wear. Eve loves a graphic tee with a funny phrase, but any colorful T-shirt will work. Jeans and sneakers will also get the job done, but we recommend being as extra as you want with some joggers in the color of your choice and a fun charm necklace that has meaning to you.
Pastel + All Black
Outdrawn by Deanna Grey
Grab your bestie (or if you’re lucky, your rival-turned-girlfriend) for this one. Noah and Sage are rivals who happen to be perfectly compatible, even if their styles couldn’t be more different. One loves all things feminine and pastel, while the other lives by a simple uniform of all black. Go the pastel route by pairing a sweet dress with a matching cardigan and accessories. You can also turn to feminine details like gingham or lace and look for soft colors like pinks, purples, and blues.
If pastels aren’t your jam, try the brooding artist look instead. Pair all black pieces together for a very chic look without even needing much effort. Try looking for different textures and patterns like stripes or velvet to add more depth to the look, too.
Rockstar
The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes by Xio Axelrod
The best thing about channeling the fictional rock band “The Lillys” is that you can really make it your own. The characters in this band each have their own styles, and exuding your inner rockstar really comes down to confidence. To achieve this look using items you already own, just throw an open vest or jacket (preferably leather or denim) over an outfit. Pair that with your favorite pair of jeans and add a loosely tucked shirt or crop top. Even without the drumsticks or guitar, you’re ready for the stage.
Whimsigoth
Infinity Alchemist by Kacen Callender
If you’re going to learn magic in secret, at least look the part. Whether you’re looking to take inspiration from the characters in Infinity Alchemist or any good fantasy with dark academia elements, the whimsigoth aesthetic is the way to go. For this style, pull out dark colors but in more whimsical styles for that fantasy flair. Plaid bottoms in black and white will help bring in the dark academia vibes, but pair them with an oversized sweater and chunky boots for a bit more uniqueness. Try layering silver accessories to complete the look, and then be careful who you trust.
Maybe don’t look to every character for real-life inspiration, but drawing inspiration from books might just lead to outfit combinations you didn’t know you’d love. Whether you love a pastel aesthetic or a whimsigoth one, matching the vibe of your favorite story is almost as fun as reading it.
