Poet-core has been hovering on the edge of the mood-board for a minute. In 2026, it finally gets a label, joining the lineup of “cores” that borrow from real-life uniforms. We saw grandpa-core with its cardigan and loafers, fisherman-core with its practical knits and weather-proof layers, and now poet-core, inspired by writers and poets who mastered looking put-together without trying.
It’s catching on because the exact building blocks having their big comeback are straight out of the writer’s wardrobe in the first place, plaid and check, vintage prints, tweed with a bit of texture, wool and corduroy that feel lived-in, trousers with room to move, blazers with soft shoulders and shirts peeking out from under knits.
Credit goes to the season too! With the colder months upon us, layering has become second nature, not just as retro styling but as smart dressing. Think of it as dark academia’s grown-up sibling, the same bookish pull, but cleaner, easier, and actually wearable on a regular day.
And unlike other aesthetics out there, this one leans towards the more sustainable side. Based on a vintage look, dressing in poetcore means repurposing what you already have or looking back at vintage pieces.
But if you’re starting from scratch, begin with a blazer! There are plenty of options to choose from, but we would suggest either a houndstooth or a plain corduroy blazer. Corduroy adds texture while also being relatively easy to layer. Whereas houndstooth is the quintessential pattern associated with the aesthetic, but its strong pattern means limiting styles. Nevertheless, it can still work with neutrals and other complementary colours.
Collared shirts and vintage blouses are the next items to look for. We’re talking crisp shirts that can be layered over one another and blouses that feature balloon sleeves and ruffles. The more they flow, the better.
The puzzle piece to poetcore layering is a sweater vest. Whether plain or patterned, loose or tight fitting, a sweater vest not only adds extra warmth but ties an outfit together. Although we are in the middle of winter, we are in the GCC region, so with that in mind, we would recommend a looser fit that doesn’t constrict the body or interrupt the layers underneath.
If you’re looking to layer without the sweater vest, then a plain old sweater is still a good option. Whether it’s styled with the collar peeking through or is draped around the shoulders, it gives off the cosy, romantic feel that poetcore is associated with.
A turtleneck is another option to channel poetcore. Either keep it simple with plain colour and lightweight fabric to layer under, or keep it thick and fluffy like a sweater itself, à la Rory Gilmore!
And finally, let accessories tie in the look. We’re not talking books as props, but loafers, leather belts, scarves, ties, capes, and hobo bags that can fit every pen and notebook needed.
