I Ordered a Dark Academia *Mystery* Box (and it didn't.... go great lol)

Yup here is a thing that I tried, I don't knowWWW. Sometimes we gotta follow through with a video idea even though halfway in we just wanna lie on the floor like a sunbathing walrus let'sGOOOOOO.
Insta: / rachel.maksy
Facebook: / rachelmaksy
Merch: teespring.com/...
TikTok: @rachelmaksy

[@KrisKrisKrissy]

Rachel: "Do these items suit my style? Not really." Me: Are these items Dark Academia? Not really.

[@HelyaRavn]

I had that very same thought xD

[@spencereck8977]

literally, these items could barely be classified as light academia. Nothing vintage, nothing BROWN? Thrift flipping has gotten out of control, this is nonsense.

[@alexandraaaron9705]

That was NOT Dark Academia... Or Even Academia... Looks like "I just Work Here Office Core" to Me... Stinks to be Disappointed 🙃 Good Job NOT getting Salty!... 🐙Thanks for the HUG🐙 (Octopi Hugs Back❣️)

[@StarSong781]

Exactly. This was thrifted office core. The earnings were cute though.

[@arielsmith-essers3079]

The truth: none of those items were Dark Academia. If this was a mystery box of “clothes I might wear to the office circa 2010” then it would be accurate. Whoever put this box together was not trying or has no idea what dark academia consists of.

[@rgs8970]

can you imagine if that becomes a popular aesthetic? like a *very* specific type of norm core

[@elizabethhull3611]

The black top was really giving that "day to night" office work vibe.

[@believeinfaeries8713]

I agree, they felt very much like clothes you could find at any fast fashion store between 2006-2010.

[@bootercup001]

“Wear to the office circa 2010” is a **MOOD**

[@manicmuffin]

✨2010businesscasualcore✨

[@Ashley-xu1lk]

None of these clothes scream dark academia. A lot of it is plain clothes that can be incorporated easily enough in many different outfits. Personally, I think this goes beyond "sending a stranger who's style you don't know clothes". The clothes and accessories just don't fit the theme. I like that Rachel is trying to be nice, and none of what she's saying is mean nor do I fault her for not liking the clothing. Everyone does have a different sense of style, but again in this case it seems the product does not match the theme it's advertised to be.

[@nartyteek]

It was less dark academia and more like clothes that comply with most public schools' dress codes lol

[@Bellinha2812]

True!

[@kckazcoll1]

@@nartyteek 100 percent

[@Enikole11]

This looked like to me if I wanted to try Dark Academia but I could only pull clothes from my mother's closet. That being said, I found the listing for this on Etsy and all the reviews were pretty good, so maybe the seller just missed the mark this time.

[@Selene13zz]

These clothes didn't even *whisper* dark academia.... they completely screwed the pooch, especially for the price! Holy cheez-its, I'd feel pretty betrayed if I had gotten this in the mail.

[@cheyennecox8683]

it looks like the seller spent max five minutes in goodwill looking for neutral colored basics and repackaged it as "dark academia" for $77 💀 i would absolutely be salty about that tbh

[@nerdgirl7363]

Honestly, all the tops look like they were bought from fast fashion sites

[@VampyBlood17]

Wonder what their return policy is too. Bet they don’t have one or don’t accept refunds/returns because a lot of scammers do this on their websites

[@Creatingviktoria]

Omg I missed the 77$ part. DAMN that’s a scam horrible lol Note to self never to buy a mystery anything

[@HugoGojibiter]

@@Creatingviktoria I mean there’s some pretty good mystery boxes out there

[@clanogden]

I could do it for $30 at Goodwill, under 2 visits

[@caseygreyson4178]

“It’s not their fault” idk Rachel, they did send you a yellow scrunchie and call it “Dark Academia”😭

[@SerenaFrom2Steps]

i read your comment before she unpacked the scrunchie, and boy I was't ready 😭 I thought it would at least be a dark mustardy yellow velvet one.. but nope

[@Jacob75119]

That moment got me, it was hilarious😂😂😂😂

[@raveng8217]

Yeahhh Rachel says it's not their fault because they don't know her style, but they kinda do? The style was supposed to be dark academia. I totally get why Rachel was being nice and giving them as much credit as she could, but I think she definitely gave them too much credit 😅

[@3llevate]

Wasn't it a pale gold satin fabric? If it was worn very tight it could pass for a ribbon wrap?

[@caseygreyson4178]

@@3llevate that sounds like something the person who sent the box would say💀

[@rmcates3035]

I don’t feel the folks sending you the box understand the aesthetic. But, on a brighter note, your floors look awesome!

[@kckazcoll1]

agree I think they defined academia as schoolwear, not bothered with the dark part

[@trinketsmusings]

I would question whether or not they understand ~aesthetic~ at all.

[@justyeeeeeetit]

But they do understand the discount tags at goodwill & how to profit

[@kathleenfleming7519]

I was going to something like that to Rachel. Yours was funnier!

[@elasticlamb]

@@kckazcoll1 Yes, my school colors were black and white, and these clothes look very close to what we wore. What a joke.

[@ellipszilonq]

Alternative title: Rachel getting scammed and being nice about for 16 minutes

[@fortehbirds]

😂😭

[@GracefulAnswers]

seriously- there’s nothing “dark academia” about any of that. It’s normal, modern, average style. Poor, Rachel. :(

[@Lunipu]

literally🥲

[@heatherduke7703]

It’s actually really uncomfortable to watch her be unable to speak the truth about the items. Heavily conditioned to be nice

[@SouthpawPatty]

I sell on Etsy. If I remember the rules correctly, it's against Etsy's selling rules to sell "mystery" boxes. It's for that exact reason. It is 100% their fault. You are way too kind. I don't know anyone who would let that go. They knew exactly what they were sending you.

[@VampyBlood17]

Etsy does allow it but you have to show the options. For instance you can sell a mystery sticker pack but you have to preview the sticker options you can get in the pack. Similar for pins, charms, etc. what you can’t do mystery versions of us clothing, custom made items (aka those not yet produced) and other items that could be passed off as a scam (like this)

[@Rachel-fi4sc]

Absolutely. I would 100% complain to Etsy.

[@lolathecat-0946]

@@VampyBlood17 sorry for being so late to this comment but that’s actually really interesting to hear! i remember buying a few comic bundle “mystery boxes” about 2yrs ago on etsy and like, i was super happy with what i got but none of them were pictured in the product photo, but I also didn’t expect them to be tbh haha

[@MyMerryMessyGermanLife]

Yeah wow, more like “I need to clean out the boring shit in my closet” than “dark academia.” They honestly need a bad review so more people aren’t scammed!

[@roryesque]

its just a different person's taste

[@abbyflows1332]

@@roryesque no because none of those things are “dark academia “

[@justscarlette1744]

No those items looked like terrible quality, pre-worn, and were so obviously dated. Rachel was being way more generous, and sellers like this really should be called out. The price was the finishing blow, that’s way too much.

[@tiffaneycupps1288]

Yes, it is your duty to give an honest review so no one else gets scammed with that crap.

[@AnnekeOosterink]

@@roryesque It's supposed to be dark academia. That is a specific style, and literally none of these items even came close to that style. It has zero to do with taste. It doesn't matter what their taste is, this isn't dark academia, so they lied about the contents. It's like telling people you'll be serving them haute quisine and you give them McDonalds.

[@chrissit7202]

“It’s not their fault” girl yes, yes it is their fault 100%… they sent you a box full of things that didn’t fit the description in the slightest. But they could’ve of sent a box of hot trash and you would’ve tried to be nice because you’re a kind person

[@DelphineTheWorstBladeEver]

Kind of feel like there is a line between enabling shit like this, and being kind. Enabling someone, and validating them in doing this kind of thing, isn't kind. It's just being a pushover.

[@findingbeautyinthepain8965]

@Delphine, the worst Blade ever I hope you realize anytime Rachel has said she doesn’t like something she gets completely 💩 on. Look up her video where she reviews Besame Cosmetics. She simply said she didn’t like some things, and she was called spoiled, privileged, ungrateful, a brat, etc. etc. It honestly seems like she can’t give a review on anything without being called a name.

[@ollieno971]

@@findingbeautyinthepain8965 that’s awful :(

[@elaynegiahoover436]

I am struggling to see how the items meet the assignment "Dark Academia." I mean a yellow scrunchie?? the heck?

[@mayfair_forest_witch]

@@findingbeautyinthepain8965 Exactly this, I understand why she doesn't want to give honest reviews anymore, it's just not worth her sanity dealing with all the hate. I don't often cry or even tear up watching youtubers apologizing, but that follow up video where Rachel apologized for Besame review got me in tears, I watched it twice and cried again, not watching it third time, lol. Not to mention there really wasn't a reason to apologize.

[@daisyd90]

Ok you were totally duped because none of those were dark academia, but for me, seeing Frodo in the lace shrug and you in the tiny pants was worth whatever you paid. 🤣

[@TasJess]

My vote is keep the shrug for Frodo

[@jayneterry8701]

That was pretty funny 😄...the best part plus the the hug 🫂 🤗!

[@jessicahart1159]

Yep, no dark academia here

[@briefisbest]

They really missed the mark with fabrics, cuts, and aesthetics at all. This felt like a bad children's halloween thrift.

[@faithfulimagination226]

Hahaha right!

[@marybethmorrison]

I'm not gonna lie - at times, I laughed aloud when I watched this video. But when you said $77, I stopped laughing. You could have thrifted a similarly underwhelming set of clothing at the local Goodwill for under $40, including sales tax. Somebody should inform the seller that "Dark Academia" does not mean "post-2010 mall brand clothing that shrank after three washes".

[@stephanieseahorse4165]

That's probably what the seller did. Thrifted random items and added profit on top.

[@AWindy94]

Yea. I felt like she was opening a box of my donated high school clothes from 2009 lol

[@riabouchinska]

Yeah this person fully just went to Dollar Day at Goodwill, bought a bunch of crap and threw it in a bag

[@chewycat12]

Yes you could thrift it for $40, but it’s $70 because you’re paying for the time it took them to curate the box. This isn’t done well but that’s why normally good ones cost that much. It’s cost of labor.

[@marybethmorrison]

@@chewycat12 I definitely get that! But I also feel like this seller missed the mark, in terms of aesthetic. And hey… half the value is anticipation, right?

[@audreycanuteson5763]

I’m annoyed at the person sending people junk and calling it a “dark academia” mystery box. But I still enjoyed your video like always! The scrunchie scream cracked me up

[@kaskus7147]

Thank you, I feel like this was not made by a person who actually knows what dark academia looks like even a little bit.

[@TwelvetreeZ]

Etsy is often a bit of a crap shoot these days, despite its branding it's becoming more and more like the scammy side of Amazon 😑

[@brbr13]

they totally ripped her off, nothing in there said dark academia to me, and poor rachel here thinks it's on her cause she's being picky. No honey, they just did an awfull job

[@raveng8217]

@@kaskus7147 That person definitely went to a thrift store, looked around for 10 minutes, grabbed the first things they could find that could MAYBE pass as "dark academia" and called it good enough 😂

[@elasticlamb]

They definitely ripped her off! The black pants look like they came off the Old Navy clearance rack and run through the washer with rocks for a few days. One solid white shirt, one solid black shirt, black pants - that was the exact uniform at my high school, and my high school uniform was not "Dark Academia." This is absurd and she needs a refund.

[@tracyy.6110]

As an Etsy seller myself, I think they are at fault, actually. None of that stuff is vintage and they didn't understand the aesthetic. I get that you're being nice and good on you for that but as a vintage seller that made me absolutely cringe 😬

[@klmoll]

What’s your website? ☺️

[@Silver_wind_1987_]

I'd complain to etsy but I've ordered slime from a person on there...the slime came in a DELI container for sauces...I used it ONCE and put it away and the next day it LEAKED all inside the bag. So that was fun

[@user-nb8tk6hh6x]

Your store?

[@thelittlecaravanner7748]

"Its not their fault, they don't know my style." You are so incredibly sweet but MA'AM YOU LITERALLY BOUGHT A STYLE BOX YOUR STYLE IS ALL THEY KNEW 😭❤

[@ItsBrandiFolseYo]

For anyone wondering; She is talking about the war in Ukraine. Many lost lives later, it still rages to this day and we must not forget them.

[@maggiew1512]

It’s okay to be a little salty at this one, Rachel. They called the box “dark academia” and then scammed you with stuff that is absolutely not dark academia :/

[@zarazen8110]

Spoiler alert much?

[@yellow-perse]

@@zarazen8110come on, the title says that it went wrong, we know what’s going to happen…

[@Fiona_Co]

The seller should have called it “getting rid of my old school uniform pieces” box, because that’s what it looks like!

[@citlalnebula1275]

Exactly! It's as if they just took some old clothes straight out of their wardrobe (all sizes mixed) and made a "Darc Academia" mystery box out of it 😱

[@rachelledjordjevic]

this! so low effort

[@extras19]

"It's probably hard to shop for someone you don't know the style of." Honey, the style is in the name! It's just a bad product!

[@katherinemeara942]

I literally thought the same thing. the "style" is Dark Academia. Not "7$ cardigan from wet seal".

[@brookeg5979]

Seriously. None of this is "dark academia"...it was just thrifted stuff. Two "fancy" tshirts, a bridesmaid cover up, two crappy pair of pants (one of which was stolen from a catering truck) and some subpar accessories. And for SEVENTY SEVEN DOLL HAIRS. No.

[@mayfair_forest_witch]

I agree with your comment except "honey" part.

[@gc0009]

@@mayfair_forest_witch keep in mind that not all people who watch Rachel are from the US, so "honey" may not always mean a bad word or ironic or offensive. maybe it's just honey with affection, because Rachel was trying not to be mean to the ''brand'' that scammed her and all the people who buy from that brand, when she has every right to speak bad of the brand.

[@mayfair_forest_witch]

@@gc0009 I'm not from US, but in what language calling a stranger 'honey' does not feel condescending? In my native language instead of 'honey' it would be 'skarbie', using it randomly it the sentence it would be condescending even when talking to a friend.

[@Faolair]

it's absolutely their fault tbh, I'm not even an expert on the aesthetic and even I can tell that this is not Dark Academia in the slightest Also 77$ for a few fast fashion items and accessoires is just criminal You did really well with styling them though, you really used your existing wardrobe to the max to somehow elevate these basic-at-best pieces

[@dannikaundomiel6244]

I'm getting 90s attic junk rather than dark academia. You were so kind about this terrible box and I can't believe they charged you $77 😅😭

[@Brigid.em.Galloway86]

Right?! My mouth actually fell open when she said how much she paid!!

[@bridgetthewench]

Not even 90's, at least then it would be somewhat trendy right now! This is late 00's/early teens, which nobody wants at the moment.

[@FaerieLoki]

77$...for this

[@AWindy94]

@@bridgetthewench Yea I had a green lace top Identical in shape to the white one she put on Frodo. That was back in 2008 when I was in high school.

[@marqueewilson]

It's dark attic aesthetic 😍😍 Putting random things in a box with the light turned off and overpricing the package omg

[@mew8]

Rachel, please don't feel bad not liking anything you got!! I run an etsy where I do boxes just like these, and I would never in a million years send literally any of these items to a customer. I am so sorry that you had a negative experience & I hope that doesn't put you off doing something like this again in the future because it was really interesting to see your takes on these outfits!

[@logynapolloclair]

What is your shop name? if you don’t mind sharing!❤️

[@bew2fly210]

I hope she gives a real review on Etsy at least

[@ShammaAzmi]

What is the name of your shop please?

[@katnisseverdeen5466]

@@logynapolloclair I second this question!

[@Bhilithinn]

Also want to know the name of your shop!

[@biosweet]

"Its not their fault" girl yes it is ☠️ everyone in my middle school had that same awkward white bolero, none of the items (except earrings) were dark academia at all, they were just dumping what they couldn't sell. Even with the box being bad you still made a fun and interesting video though!! And the floors look great lmao

[@Hildegardvonblingin]

Etsy disappointment is a special kind of pain. 🥺 I appreciate seeing this because it makes me feel less alone in my internet shopping disasters. 🙈

[@sarahisavampire]

Hildegard! I see you everywhere!

[@612Ghost]

And this is why I no longer shop at etsy. Besides getting scammed twice and things *never* arriving on time (l'm talking months late), with items just not being as advertised I lost all faith. Might be UK etsy that's just terrible, but never again

[@612Ghost]

@@skengels Hey thanks for taking the time to write all of this! Unfortunately I did all of those things and it still was a horror show every time. I'm very picky about where I shop for anything, so I was always checking reviews, pages (and the rest you mentioned) and even then it turned out as a bad experience. It honestly made me not believe any of the reviews anymore and half the time it feels like the reviews aren't even talking about the product being sold anyway. Etsy customer service was not my favourite part either. I also mainly bought antique items (and not for cheap, pics okay and shipping time reasonable) but there would always be something like massive delays in shipping with the weirdest excuses, issues with track and trace, items never arriving (and magically being sold again after a few weeks), sellers not responding or just straight up being rude etc etc. The worst part it that I worked for a mail and shipping company so I usually can clock when I'm being lied to and it happened so often T.T Handmade items I rarely buy anyway cause honestly unless I can see the product in real life I don't trust it to turn out the way someone tells me. I did once order a handmade plush for a friend tho and that was the thing that arrived 5 months late (edit: this was a preorder as well) with tons of excuses from the seller. Reviews were great with buyer pictures and everything and ngl the end result was really nice, but not worth waiting 6/7 months for with the added stress of constant communication on wtf was going on. Honestly it doesn't seem to matter what I try, the effort of buying on etsy just isn't worth it for me anymore. Also like you mentioned, there is so much drop shipping it feels like wish at this point so honestly I rather shop from artists directly through other means. Etsy has just left a permanent bad taste in my mouth

[@vietbluecoeur]

@@skengels i

[@snooksmcdermott]

Nope, they sent you garbage. Geez. On a positive note, you can never go wrong with a sweater vest and a bishop sleeve blouse! My favorite vintage look!

[@4MalletPrincess]

I read "bish sleeve blouse" and now I'm never going back.

[@FredZoise]

Rachel: "Sorry I was so negative" The negativity: "This isn't really my style, but its ok"

[@truckerbrat7005]

Ok I'll be salty, the only thing in that box that struck me a even remotely "Dark Academia" are the pearl earrings. That aside watching you try them on was fun, thanks!

[@abigailhuber8435]

What? The yellow scrunchie didn’t scream dark academia to you?

[@kelseydalziel3514]

This

[@rita9942]

@@abigailhuber8435 😭💀 totally did lmao

[@thebratqueen]

@@abigailhuber8435 The Yellow Scrunchie is the new style: Dark VSCO Girl

[@Gothlite-i1l]

Until the 'pearls' fall off.

[@fuzzycat63]

Holy cow. I have been putting together some mystery boxes to sell and I have been feeling so worried that the recipients won't like them...I can't believe someone actually put this together and was like, "yes, this stuff is worth the $77 I am charging for this box." If I'd sent this I wouldn't be able to live with myself!

[@yunglynda1326]

same!!!

[@morgannrosee]

I've been wanting to buy one but I can't get myself to trust any sellers. But if you watch Rachel I trust you 100%. What's your @?

[@Selene13zz]

Rachel, you were waaay too nice about this mystery box. They absolutely sent you generic crap that didn't fit the bill or even have any style to it at all. Esp for what you paid for it. I would have been *ranting* about the disappointment. Oh well, you're right. There are far worse things happening and your compassion is very apparent. We should all send love out to those whose literal lives are on the line right now.

[@ruthk5020]

I crossed the Ukrainian border, two weeks ago. I came to this channel to see a friend, to take my mind off the horrors my friends are facing. So please don’t feel guilty, you provide a much needed break in a world that’s gone mad. *bug cyber hugs*

[@mirjanbouma]

Hi, I hope you and yours are doing well - as well as van be expected in these circumstances. 💙💛

[@livingauthenticallyonmyownterm]

Sending you and your friends blessings and big love as Ukraine fights for its life! 🌹

[@carrieon2912]

Prayers for you, your family, and your country ♥️

[@poobd]

As much I think of these boxes potentially being a hit or miss due to personal preference, I feel like all of these pieces weren't in the stylings of "dark academia" to begin with, it was just a bunch of basics. That's kind of the part I'm comparatively salty about LOL

[@Daniel.Isak.S]

Completely agree

[@MyNameHere101]

That intro. Here we are nearly two years later and I'm like "Which crisis was this? 🤔Ones of the wars (plural)? Shoot outs? Bombings? Fires?"

[@fachel2]

Don’t forget pandemic and attempted coup 🙃

[@auroraourania7161]

@@fachel2at least for those I could tell by the date, since by 2022 people had stopped talking much about the pandemic (even though it continues to ruin lives to this date), and the coup attempt in the US was a year passed at that point, so I feel like the language she used would've been different.

[@CaraRowen]

It's Ukraine. But Christ it could be fucking anything.

[@wintabread]

samee

[@candace200]

Wow, I'm glad I'm not alone in wondering which terrible world event transpired.

[@rosieshaw8269]

I feel like this person went to their closet and just put stuff they didn't wear anymore into a bag and went, yep... dark academia. $77?! No way.

[@jubihime9901]

That's exactly what I thought!

[@emmastu97]

Precisely!! It even feels like someone bought bags of peoples old clothes and just puts them in a bag and sends them off. It’s just trash 😩

[@rosieshaw8269]

@@emmastu97 such a shame too! Because there are plenty of sellers on etsy who do really nice curated boxes like this that actually are the style you want 🥺

[@garcia0505]

This video honestly shows how much of an artist and professional Rachel is: she managed to make the video really fun and interesting to watch, even though the material she had to work with was TRASH. She got basically scammed by the shop, and still managed to work with them, be super gentle in her general review, and even felt sad for us!!! Honestly Rachel, super props to you, and I hope you at least left an honest review in the shop so this.... Occurrence serves a purpose

[@ilahjarvis]

It looks like someone went to a yard sale, picked up random pieces of clothes that could theoretically be worn to school and put them in the bag to be sent. I was surprised how nice she was with the white t-shirt. Seriously, there is nothing spooky or academic about a long sleeve white t-shirt.

[@silverdragon1314]

I was expecting a vest or sweater to be included to theoretically be put over the white shirt? But no... Nothing

[@workinonleavintheliv]

With a boat neck. All of the items were trash sorry I said it. Except the rose earrings were ok

[@Yelliegibs]

If by vintage dark academia they meant the dark years of my academic career as a theatre kid in the 2000s, sure I guess they got it lol but seriously Rachel can make such amazing content even from total shit clothes and I applaud her so much for that!

[@waltwhitmansgreatgrandaughter]

This comment is a personal favorite of mine.

[@revaille._su]

I love this comment💀

[@EbonRaven]

I’ll be blunt. That was a box of trash. There was nothing “Dark Academia” in that box. It was absolutely their fault. They don’t understand (or apparently care about) the theme. I can forgive some variation in style, but the items should have at least fit the theme! I’ll take my cranky self off before I say more that would be less nice. You are way too kind! ❤️

[@AlexaFaie]

I've not actually seen what the dark academia theme comes from, but even I thought this wasn't what those words would make me think of. Unless the vibe is basic white and black? Doesn't seem right to me though.

[@Dionysian.Cryptid]

The yellow scrunchy is the worst offender, like damn that's not even close lmao

[@waldostudios]

Rachel: I don't enjoy being critical of anything Also Rachel: *criticizes her own videos and DIYs ruthlessly*

[@ediedbdbd7902]

I think all these dark academia clothes would have been greatly improved by a hearty dose of Salty Rachel!

[@katia_gabriella]

Lol right? We're all our own merciless judgment givers

[@Steph_here]

😭

[@katelingray3364]

Rachel: "I'm normally not this negative" Me: thinking she's being way to nice about the shit box lol... seriously tho she couldn't even put those peices together and the jewelry was broken and pants didn't fit... I feel like they just threw it together

[@ellisaclumpner2858]

Sweet kind Rachel’s definition of “salty” is quite different from mine…

[@jrojala]

It’s okay to be salty or “negative” when you get ripped off- which you absolutely were. This mystery box reminds me of the scam my auntie was running out of a thrift shop- she would “curate” items for mystery bags, but it was really just her selling the junk that went through a whole year of discounts, and was still unsold. She was able to sell the stuff for triple price a piece, and she made sooo much off people it’s honestly sickening.

[@AnnekeOosterink]

I'm not that mad at thrift store mystery bags, like, you know going in that this is going to be the weird stuff. But this promised a particular style, which it did not deliver. I mean, did your aunt label the bags as antiques or something? Or just mystery bag? :)

[@TheFlauschig]

Isn't that like what most mystery boxes are anyway? Everytime I see a store doing mystery boxes/lucky bags or whatever you want to call it, its always just a way to get rid of products that nobody wants.

[@nala7829]

@@TheFlauschig Nah, plenty of them are just random stuff, sometimes even slightly curated - I make them (antique store/rural trade store) and try to put together things the same person would like.

[@heatherduke7703]

That’s the vibes I was getting, these were items they were unable to sell

[@carried9130]

Hi Rachel, I agree that the seller is misadvertising the product.I can google dark academia and get a specific feel from that style. This person sells regular clothes that have nothing to do with that style. You could share the shop name to save other people from making the same mistake...I'd be furious if I bought a box-mystery or no- claiming to privide a certain look and it doesn't. With the economy what it is today especially, customers don't need to be taken advantage if by false advertising. Shops like that are giving small businesses a lot of trouble because after experiences like this, the public assumes all small businesses run that way as well. Also, please don't apologize for living your life amidst the world's tragedies. Unless you support or helped this happen, you did not and are not doing anything wrong. The rest of the world still has to go to their jobs, this is your job. And anyone who tried to make you feel bad about that is garbage. The rest of us look for positivity where we can find it...and your videos have always had a positive impact. Omg Frodonis so great for letting you pose him in that shirt lol. My dogs don't tolerare that at all. Mine actually perk up and watch the tv if Frodo is on. So cute!

[@rosemarylinalool3432]

This should be top comment!

[@missvisibleninja]

+

[@makeda6530]

Factual

[@jenkrr]

Hear hear

[@FoenixAuditore]

I literally just googled the aesthetic and that box wasn’t it… I figured maybe I had the wrong idea in mind but nope. The clothes were just wrong lol Rachel is such a sweet soul

[@rangerlove7]

I read a thing the other day that I think applies to a lot of us. You are not required to wallow in despair to prove your humanity. Better to go and work on something you can fix. In your case Rachel, your content brings joy to a lot of people.

[@lizthedisjointedzebra692]

Exactly. I personally don't expect KZbinrs and celebrities to post photos and videos of self-flagellation, it helps people to see some normalcy and fun. And it isn't Rachel's responsibility to publicly fix it, I just don't get people that get indignant when people try to keep up some semblance of normalcy(even if they do support/help out during times of crisis).

[@petrastedman669]

That is nicely put.

[@dizasteroid7]

Its called performative moral exhibitionism. People actually get a dopamine rush by being a part of the newest trend.

[@rhiannonthegrey17]

Well put! ❤

[@argusfleibeit1165]

@@dizasteroid7 Oh, please. If you can't tell a person's genuine empathy and feelings of helplessness over a tragic world event-- what exactly are YOU exhibiting besides cynical snark?

[@Kate-rp1pp]

Rachel being an internet queen, understanding the power of her voice and not using it to bring people down even though the creator of that box did the absolute bare minimum.

[@stephw3460]

nah, the creator of the box cldnt even do the bare minimum LMAO

[@NChant101]

A yellow scrunchy and jewelry from the dollar store is not the bare minimum.

[@mayqs1231]

On the other hand, the MVPs of this video were Rachel's wonderful collection of coats! They are just exquisite. They are literally the types of coats I dream of having in my wardrobe, the fit, the color, the style, everything abt them are wonderful.

[@WendyBones]

Right? Show us more coats Rachel

[@chupawup4517]

You're absolutely allowed to express your disappointment, honestly alot of this looked like items cleared out of my high school wardrobe after coming out of my "business casual" phase that most girls went through in the 2010s. Very reminiscent 💅

[@maia_gaia]

This kills me. Why was I, as a like 15 year old, wearing trousers and a blazer to school 💀

[@AlexaFaie]

@@maia_gaia Blazers are part of school uniforms so pretty normal to wear one.

[@maia_gaia]

@@AlexaFaie considering I didn't go to a school with a uniform, nope! Most of the girls at my school were in oversized tee shirts and running shorts

[@chupawup4517]

@@maia_gaia pleaseeee 😭 wtf was going onnnnn, I was ATTACHED to my one blazer that I stole from my mother's wardrobe

[@katjaanjuli]

Definitely not just a “personal style” thing, none of these things are Dark Academia AT ALL! Butter yellow scrunchie, two pairs of normal earrings & rings, black & brown work pants from the mall, one 100% plain top & two simple mall-style tops? Maaaaybe the rose earrings in the exact right context? But honestly if there was a flat-lay or mood boars these items nobody would ever guess Dark Academia or anything close. I feel like Rachel’s personal style skews so closely to Dark Academia that a box that lived up to the theme would have suited her. As I was processing this video I pictured myself in Value Village (the name for Savers in Canada) filling an order for a box like this with items they generally have in stock. I would have picked out: Bottoms: High waisted, pleated or wool (or wool adjacent) pants or skirts, maybe in charcoal, tweed or plaid. A longer kilt in subtle plaid (popular in the 80s so often available) would be very collegiate. The men’s section has tons of grandpa type pants that would read “professor”. Or if the shop was empty, even khakis & call it Ivy League style! Tops: Dream items would be blazers with elbow patches, tweed, cricket sweaters and sweatervests. But lets say they have the bare minimum. How about cable knit sweaters, vests of any kind, ANYTHING with elbow patches, polo or rugby shirts, letterman jackets, blazers of any kind. Maybe one of those 1980s tops with an East Coast yachting style crest, logo or patch to hit the Ivy League theme again. Accessories: Riffing off Rachel’s choices, suspenders, classic brown leather belts, berets, a pair of wire eyeglasses. Dream items would be pocket watches, a necklace with a coin or archaeology-adjacent charm of some kind, maybe a cameo piece. How about a neck scarf or a chunky watch? Or a bookbag-style purse? Or a pair of oxfords, maryjanes or loafers! A preppy headband or tortiseshell clip. Go menswear with a bow tie or straight tie with a crest. Worst case scenario any thrift store would have at least string of pearls, a necklace with some dainty little charm and a brooch. Anyways, had a real fun thought experiment there & kinda wish I could start selling Dark Academia boxes now!

[@ada4030]

Perfect. Cut and paste this to the Etsy seller.

[@meganmcguinness697]

I'd buy that! Whoever put together this box put 0 effort in and it reads as a quick cash scheme

[@magicalmindofminxy1425]

@@RenTheWren there are absolutely thrift stores that sell things dirt cheap . Family thrift outlet sells all items for as little as $0.50 a piece (used to be $0.25) .I agree some things could possibly cost more but then charge more for the box if it means that people who purchase will actually get what they ordered

[@tyokabina2829]

I must agree with the general consensus here. The box was the least dark academia I have seen since I found out what it is, and you are a treasure for making fun and wholesome content for everyone in these dark times.

[@rosemarylinalool3432]

I wholeheartedly agree with you

[@elenanojkovic2554]

Yup. I've seen H&M and Zara window displays more that were more dark academia than this.

[@alice45-fgd-456drt]

I'm gonna be honest.....if I'd been duped into paying 77 dollars for a 5 dollar shirt, a Wish cardigan and two pairs of plain pants, I'd request a refund lmao. You're way too nice about this 😥

[@manicmuffin]

When I tell you I screamed at that "dark academia yellow scrunchie" shot! 😭😂 You are far too gracious, I would have been cursing and roasting every single item they sent. What a lazily curated "dark academia" box. Maybe the black top and the pearl and rose earrings were kiiinda there if you styled it right and squinted a lot, but the rest didn't fit the aesthetic in the least. I'm glad you made the best of it and still made a hugely entertaining video, kudos!

[@meredithbarbery6247]

They sent you an "early 00s, first corporate job out of college" mystery box 😬 I applaud you for being so nice about this. This reminds me of when I got a SF box and... you could just tell the stylist and I did not mesh. It was bad and I cried because I was a few months post-partum and I just wanted to do something fun for myself 😣

[@alexisb.8965]

Exactly what I thought lol

[@KatasaurusRexxed]

You're very kind. This box was pretty terrible. 😆

[@screamingintotheabyss8458]

It felt like she was opening a Christmas present she didn’t like, but had to play it up to not hurt a family member’s feelings. 😆

[@llamasugar5478]

They accidentally sent the Random Crap box.

[@mayfair_forest_witch]

@Niphyra Last time Rachel was honest about a box review she got tons of hate in the comments and in a follow up video she was swallowing tears apologizing, even though in all honesty there was nothing to apologize really. I watched this video once, I cried with her and I am always skipping this video even though I watched every other at least 2 times. I've seen some other youtubers apologizing for this and that but no one except Rachel hit my empathy button. Although this time it's different, because she paid for it, I would like to know which seller was that to avoid them.

[@mayavp]

Pretty awful. They really didn't think about these items at all

[@lenabreijer1311]

It was the equivalent of floor sweepings.

[@MiyLei]

Rachel: I apologize for being so negative Also Rachel: Is the most positive little cinnamon roll on the internet atm...

[@grimmscuriosities9411]

You were being so incredibly kind to this hot mess of a cash grab 'mystery box'. Also, your camera hug legit made me tear up, I'm just that touch starved.

[@evercuriousmichelle]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who is touch starved!! I need a good grandma hug!

[@kimberly3299]

Ohmigosh SAME

[@hannahcollins1816]

Cozy hugs to you all!!!! ☺️

[@dianabuck7310]

I didn't expect that hug to affect me so much. 🥰

[@MusicalisMolly]

If they're going to be selling a mystery box of a certain aesthetic they should be giving you things that fit the description, especially for $77.

[@madisonthompson4185]

and fit the buyer lol

[@mayavp]

This was soooo not worth that price!

[@zamiaramirez1390]

The first top looked super worn to. It was definitely just someone going to a thrift store thinking well an old person would wear this so it must be dark academia

[@ItMeSinamenRoll]

I was like “wow all of these are horrible, poor Rachel!” And then the Mumford and sons part arrived, and I didn’t even notice she was photoshopped into the picture until half a second before it disappeared.

[@jemfromrainyviije]

same omg

[@ShroomAndMoss]

Same 🤣🤣

[@andizana]

Saammee

[@agimagi2158]

Omg I did not notice at all until I read your comment!

[@jessicah6839]

I didn't notice that 😄Had to go back and look

[@SweeneySays]

Rachel being an absolute angel trying desperately to pretend this was reasonable when very little of this box could be reasonably described as "dark academia," like truly WHAT WAS THIS BOX.

[@hadrianryan4179]

Someone's mom on Etsy going "dark academia... now what on earth is that? Ok, well, if it's dark and academic, she's going to need some smart, business casual trousers. In black!" 🤣🤣🤣

[@cristinajohnsonmusic5254]

Gotta also remember that it wasn’t even a box. 😂

[@SweeneySays]

@@cristinajohnsonmusic5254 lmao AMAZING POINT IT FAILED AT THE MOST BASIC METRIC OF BEING AN DARK ACADEMIA **BOX** wow.

[@cristinajohnsonmusic5254]

@@SweeneySays Right, like, neither Dark Academia nor box! It was just a bag of the kind of clothes I used to wear to work at the mall back in college. 😂 **faint college flavor** **tastes like a hint of 18 year old and food insecurity**

[@dapistol1970]

I really didn't feel you were being negative. Not everything is right for everyone and you expressed that very well. Oh, and thank you for the hug toward the end. It helped.

[@tinamarina8983]

Girl, this was the epitome of a lemons out of lemonade situation! They sent you early 2000s business casual attire...I just...you were kinder than I would have been!

[@eve16455]

😂😂😂 we would’ve all been at the club w these outfits feeling cute af 😂😂😂

[@Mariahcbaker]

You are very kind because objectively speaking not one of those items could really be classified as dark academia. People please correct me if I’m wrong

[@petyreyvind9963]

You're definitely not wrong, that was exactly how I looked at it

[@jenpitre9444]

Yellow scrunchie!?!?

[@annafantasia]

Oho no you are correct >.< Maaaaybe the rose or pearl earrings? But honestly they feel light academia to me so

[@tygerstripes3752]

You're not wrong! lololol

[@suus-arido393]

I love it when a comment section gets together and agrees something sucks. Rachel honey, you're being toooooo kind. Get ur money back girl.

[@JHazzardousW]

I love how charitable and kind Rachel is in her review of this garbage box. We could all do with being a bit more like Rachel.

[@VampiraVonGhoulscout]

Rachel, something important to remember is that no matter how you are feeling, it's always valid. If one person drowns in 7 feet of water and another in 20 feet, neither were more important than the other because they both suffered. It's okay to struggle sometimes. I think it's very noble that you still continue to make wholesome content to distract people from the world outside because that's what art is about. Art gives us a safe haven to help us get through life when things are really hard. Thank you for still working to make this world a bit brighter.

[@fibromiteready2fight809]

I think she was saying she obviously isn’t going through as much emotionally as someone who is literally fleeing their home or having their loved ones be killed, which she isn’t. She’s an outsider to the situation, and it doesn’t affect her the same way. That’s a fact. She should take care of her mental health and take a breath from all of the anxiety inducing news, yes, but the difference is she can take a breath, and they can’t.

[@Stettafire]

@@fibromiteready2fight809 No matter whats going on in the world, people are still able to feel upset at multiple things at once. The attitude of "well your problems dont exist cus of starving kids in Africa" is toxic and gross. A close friend has joined the international legion, he's actively fighting out there. But by your logic my own worry and fear doesn't matter.

[@marcherwitch9811]

that is such a good analogy! thank you!

[@VampiraVonGhoulscout]

@@Stettafire this was my point

[@fibromiteready2fight809]

@@Stettafire the point I was making is in relation to specifically what is plaguing Rachel. She isn’t just saying this for no reason, but because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. If this was another general thing she said, yes, the op has a good point. However, Rachel’s point was that in this situation, it is not her voice that needs to be centered, but Ukrainians. Her feelings are valid, as I said . But the magnitude of them isn’t as great as the people fleeing from war, which is what she and I were referring to. Also, you are worried about your friend dying, you are apart of the people I was referring to , being worried about loved ones dying. My family is worried about what’s going on, but ours isn’t the same as my mother’s best friend, whose significant other is in Russia with US troops to help. (Tw: death mention) You made an interesting comparison at the end, because, I’m Black .When George Floyd died , if she had said what she did, but in relation to his murder , that the feelings of the Black people hurting and mourning his death, and fearful of being murdered in this country without justice, even when all evidence is there ,are more intense than her feelings and views as an outsider who is much more unlikely to be harmed by police brutality, would you have the same response? It happens all the time, I’ve know to steer clear of the police as much as possible since I was born, as did my mother. It doesn’t impact White people the same. We appreciate the concern of White people, and acknowledge that people dying and you being unable to help them is very saddening, it my whole family has known someone who almost , or did, get shot up by the police or die in another ways the hands of them. I do constantly thing of the starving children in Africa, of the war, the hardships a lot of them go through to get an education, because I’m African. And the fact that you, and many other people use Thea “there’s starving kids in Africa” as a talking point for either side of the debate about importance, while not actually having to think of them , try to make sure they’re ok, wonder if people you see around there could be related to you, have ancestors that knew their ancestors, because I can only trace my history back so far, show that your feelings are not the same as the ones going through it. I have anxiety. This Ukraine thing has caused much anxiety. I’ve been doomscrolling a lot. My feeling are real and valid. They aren’t the same as the people directly affected (Ukrainians, their friends and family, the soldiers, and soldier friends). And that’s ok. We can all feel what we need to feel, and acknowledge that some people are hit by world events harder than others. That’s life.

[@amaliaseven7]

Rachel: sorry this is so negative! I'm not usually so salty! The review: the gentlest negative review ever, a focus on the positives, giving allowance to the company, deliberately not naming the company to avoid them losing business, a relatable reassurance that even though the world is scary it's okay to have big feelings, and a loving hug .. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Rachel is such a lovely person

[@33goodwitch]

Yes!! When she said that it was like, what do you mean salty? You just said these aren't your preference!! Nothing wrong with knowing what you like

[@helenascribe210]

Oh dear, I think you were scammed. Or they mixed up the ‘garage sale box’ with the one you were supposed to get. And yet, amazingly, you created an interesting video. The way you styled the items was definitely dark academia inspired, so hats off to you for trying so darn hard. Also, thank you for expressing how so many of us are feeling. ♥️

[@shepherdessofskymeadow]

The only "aesthetic" here is me circa my first high school choir concert lol. (They made the freshman choirs just wear white tops/black pants since we weren't committed enough yet to have actual uniforms, and yes indeed it was always a hot mess.) I can't believe you paid $77 for that crap! This was such a scam and it's really generous of you to go out of your way not to blame them. I hope you at least left them an honest review privately.

[@bridgetthewench]

Yeah, I'm having flashbacks to around the time I graduated high school. Especially the bolero! It just looks like someone came up with a good scam to unload their outdated junk.

[@jrojala]

My daughter just had her high school choir concert and she was asked to wear an outfit almost identical to what arrived in that box, hahaha

[@shepherdessofskymeadow]

@@jrojala LOL glad to know the tradition continues 😂

[@singerofsongss]

hahaha my middle school choir had the same white blouse/black pants uniform! that bolero shrug especially - I would have worn that in 2011 with an aeropostale blouse and a pair of badly fitting black slacks from Target

[@shepherdessofskymeadow]

@@singerofsongss LOL omg I haven't thought about Aeropostale in years. High school me always wore my boleros with some Old Navy empire-waisted tank tops, skinny-ish jeans from American Eagle and ballet flats. Tried to tell myself I was a "modern Lizzy Bennett" 😂

[@moonlife924]

To be super honest, these items kind of felt like someone was clearing out their (probably huge) wardrobe and decided to sell them in this manner rather than on depop or something....Definitely fair to be disappointed, in my opinion. The video was still super fun to watch and I think I speak for most people here that we always enjoy Rachel content in any form you grace us with. xx

[@samfrancis5986]

This is called “I went to the thrift store and picked out random white and black clothes then upsold them on Etsy as ‘trendy’”. You definitely got played. They put no effort into making that box “dark academia”.

[@workinonleavintheliv]

Honestly no I’ll bet they went to a clothing bank. This is the stuff the thrift stores have left over that no one will buy. This is coming from a person who has always shopped at thrift stores and sometimes had to go to clothing banks out of necessity.

[@sagemorris-greene9191]

I think you're being extraordinarily kind about/to this seller. This feels like someone wanted to clean out their closet and hoped to make their old throw -outs more attractive by calling them dark academia. Nothing about their picks felt that genre. You're a very thoughtful person 🙂❤️

[@floatingsmartie]

Rachel, You are so incredibly kind to the sellers of this box. You’re not picky, they did not sell you dark academia items. I really enjoy all of your videos 😊

[@julianffan]

From a “Dark Academia Mystery Box” what I would _expect_ is items that would distinctly Dark Academify whatever neutral items you were already wearing. Not _the neutral items_ that nobody would even peg as Dark Aca if you didn’t style them properly.

[@AnnekeOosterink]

Yeah, and these neutrals didn't even fit the style at all. Like, a white T-shirt is not dark academia, make it a button down, then maybe. You can use neutrals, but at least make them fit the style. I could see a knit sweater, a neutral (or even a patterned or coloured) button down shirt, a pencil skirt, those are still all over the place, neutral and not that hard to find, and at least those would fit the description.

[@TheHermitHut]

Well said!

[@julianffan]

@@AnnekeOosterink I was trying to be charitable, but… this is accurate.

[@VampyBlood17]

Pretty much every item Rachel already owned to style with the bad items was Dark Aca not any of the ones she was sent

[@dawnriddler]

it was more light academia

[@grannyLynnsCreations]

challenge.... go thrift your perfect dark academia box, with the same amount of items and see what you come up

[@laurahelenam]

Yeah, great idea!

[@samanthapereira3733]

Yay! That's a fun idea!

[@skabs508]

THIS

[@annafantasia]

Ooh I love this idea!

[@klimpertaste3191]

Yes!

[@piecesofstarlight]

I am two pieces in and both of them are white. In a Dark Academia box. Rachel is already being way too nice about this... I CAN'T SEE MCGONAGAL WEARING A WHITE 2000'S BOLERO! CAN YOU!?!?

[@maddiestrange408]

I would've legit cried if I spent that much money on a box advertised as dark academia and got that 2010 day at the office bullshit. You were extremely kind in this video. The person who packed that box didn't even try, of atleast had NO CLUE what dark academia is. In which case, its not like they couldn't Pinterest search "Dark Academia." Im sorry you got kinda of screwed. Your the sweetest for how you handled it, and i enjoyed just listening to you, and watching you ❤️

[@julialuminasalsa]

THIS

[@kategamgee]

They didn't send anything remotely "dark academia" girl you got ripped off BUT it was fun to watch because you have such a good sense of humor about it and it's nice to hear from you and get an Internet hug 😂🤗

[@Lazamattaz]

Echoing everyone saying that the mystery box did not seem to grasp Dark Academia as a concept in the first place, you were being very kind about them in your review tbh! But also, it made for an entertaining video too 😄

[@sisterspooky]

@Laura - Exactly. Whomever assembled that grouping doesn’t understand the aesthetic of _Dark Academia_ at all. It’s unfortunate she ended up with so many useless items. Despite the video being entertaining, her disappointment was palpable. I feel bad for her.

[@ilanaantimony3801]

so depressing that the intro is still accurate, albeit for a different situation, a year later :") i had to sincerely pause the video and go "wait this was from a year ago. what was happening a year ago"

[@megzzk8072]

Seriously, I came to the comments and was like, what was a year ago?

[@everydayllama635]

Rachel, we all need a distraction. Don’t apologize for creating a corner of peace and normal in the world. You’re awesome….even if the box was…not. 😆

[@frostfang1]

Yea there's always horrifying things happening in the world. You do what you can, but the balance isn't in suffering with others, it's by providing a light and a joy and a reprieve we can bask in during the dark times.

[@Elowen_Fae]

Rachel is being beyond nice in this. They literally sent her NOTHING that fit the dark academia aesthetic. I'd have been pissed if I payed for that mystery box and that was what I got.

[@lillyjordan2331]

I feel like you were a lot more generous than most people would be with that “dark academia” box. It feels like they just went to the thrift store and picked some stuff in more neutral colors and thought that was what the aesthetic was. What’s even more sad is how easy it usually is to thrift the style what with how many sweater vests, cardigans, and dark colors most thrift stores have.

[@lestranged]

yes, and how many collared shirts are in thrift stores but they send her a t-shirt!

[@lillyjordan2331]

@@lestranged I know, even if they wanted to go for basics they could’ve chosen things so much better😭

[@Lisa11xd]

I agree with everyone who already mentioned that they deffff didn’t send you anything dark academia, and was more on the side of “here’s some random stuff”, that being said I’ve enjoyed watching you for a while now and I appreciate a break from world events to just breathe and relax with a wholesome Rachel vid. 💕 I can’t wait for more!

[@lilliancenteno6272]

This box was a bust. However, it made for a good video. Got a good chuckle and it made me smile. And in these gloomy and uncertain times, laughter is good medicine. Keep the content coming. Two thumbs up for your work!

[@supernova622]

"This is.. This is.. Yup, okay." That's pretty much the whole mood of this video. You were so charitable and diplomatic through this whole thing. Bless you.

[@thegreybunnygirl2445]

I'm so amused by the way every single item was less Dark Academia than the one before, and starting off with a bright white boat neck tee was already pretty far in the opposite direction 😅. On the plus side, floors! They look so good! And Frodo in a lace shrug, 10 out of 10! Rachel was approximately 20,000 times less salty than I would have been 😂

[@r00tan16]

this is practically criminal, rachel was WAY too easy on the seller. id be pissed if this were me

[@hilarydirks715]

I don’t know if this is selfish or weird, but while I’ve been doomscrolling and scared of what’s been going on, it was comforting for me to look forward to your videos. I’m so thankful you posted and that you continue to bring such wholesome things into the world. Thank you for posting this!

[@hannahfox5422]

Same, Rachel is one of my comfort youtubers who I always come back to.

[@criseastman6503]

Same here

[@christinesizemore3]

In times of crisis, it's important to keep up normal activities as far as you're capable, modified if need be... because otherwise we'd all be constantly screaming into the void and everything would come to a grinding halt. That you are continuing to do what you do provides the rest of us with an escape and a sense of normalcy we so sorely need. Thank you for everything you do - it IS meaningful, even if it might not feel like it.

[@genera1013]

Exactly. I literally just watched an update video about Ukraine and I was on the verge of tears. I needed this so badly just to calm my mind.

[@reivenne]

I mean there's also the fact that... if you're not in the Ukraine or Russia, you're not in crisis. So, freaking out abotu it when it doesn't really impact you is kinda centering your feelings over the feelings of people who are actually suffering.

[@yarn7130]

@@reivenne That might be sweeping a tonne of other current global crisises under the rug.. 😬

[@serenafardin7441]

Christine Sizemore how deeply right you are. ♥

[@wherefancytakesme]

Plus this is her job. She kinda has to keep making videos in order to, you know, eat and that.

[@knivesnflowers]

you should go thrifting with the same budget, theme and categories and compare the results!

[@Miss_Distress]

Good idea!

[@MagdalenRose]

Great idea!

[@ShroomAndMoss]

SUCH A GREAT IDEA

[@hilarys3405]

Boosting! Love this idea.

[@schlieffenska]

I want to seethis video

[@ed6705]

Oof, seeing that sad opening and then having to try and narrow down which specific tragedy we're talking about... this is fine

[@sarjean]

Rachel, no! This was legit a scam! How are capris pants “dark academia”?! A yellow scrunchy?! What?!

[@filmn0ir]

I think “this didn’t work” videos are very valuable, and I’m happy you ended up posting this. As someone trying to hone their personal style and also retain sanity during these global crises, thank you for your honesty and creativity.

[@isla8599]

Not me watching this in Sep 2023 and wondering which of the 2020 - 2022 possible humanitarian crisises Rachel was referring to in the intro lmao

[@lissyv.6842]

"I'm trying so hard not to be salty" Me: OUTRAGEOUSLY SALTY ON RACHEL'S BEHALF! 😆

[@opossumqueen7532]

RIGHT?? I literally feel like she got scammed. 😂😭

[@JixieDyeAuthor]

@@opossumqueen7532 Exactly! You can TELL that those tops and other things were CHEAP AF and yet they charged so damn much!

[@doobat708]

Just because someone worse these items during the 2011-2012 semester at their university, doesn't make it Dark Academia. As someone else said, that scrunchy is just an insult.

[@MichelleB_96]

That mystery box felt like someone was decluttering their closet and thought...hmm, how can I make a little cash off these things...? Oh, and your second shirt model gets a "10" in my book 🤣

[@MickeyNorton-g2h]

rewatching this because i forgot what the video was about, and being absolutely FLOORED at how nice rachel was when the box was literally a middle-aged businesswoman's thrifted wardrobe?? a SCRUNCHIE??? where's the tweed? where's the wool? why were the tops soooooooo business-casual?? i repeat, A SCRUNCHIE?????? none of this is "dark academia," it really just felt like a poor version of a moodboard that might have once been "dark academia." absolutely not your fault, rachel.

[@flamingoliz]

Oh they did you dirty. None of that is Dark Academia and that's not much for that price. Loved the Mr Darcy bit 😆 2010 fashion isn't Dark Academia 🤦‍♀️

[@jamiesandsecondaccount]

Rachel: * trying to not be salty* “it’s just not something I think I would probably wear.” Me: it’s ugly 😂

[@acaciamary]

my first thought was "I Hate it", then she was all nice and was all 'oh no'

[@TaperJeanGirl1000]

This wasn't salty at all, you were incredibly diplomatic in expressing your feelings about what they sent you! Whoever put this box together really doesn't understand the aesthetic, but you still managed to make a fun video.

[@hadrianryan4179]

Right!? I was laughing so hard when she said "salty review" like this was...so...SO charitable a review, in honesty, and even protected the seller's reputation 🤣

[@mothermayi7832]

I appreciate your giant internet hug. I am an elderly lady that has lost her one and only daughter last Thanksgiving. I find you funny and amusing and very talented with your sewing abilities. I hope you have a wonderful time with your channel. Bless you.

[@autumnpoland7532]

I am getting 90s closet clean out box and less “dark academia.” The friggin white bolero 🤣 You make it worth it❤️

[@jgordy4840]

I thought bolero Frodo was great.