The first image that pops up in our mind when we think of preppy style is the collegiate uniform with polo shirts and pleated miniskirts, varsity jackets, and various prints and knitwear. Nowadays, the preppy style reinforces the classic details but with a fresh take on aesthetics.
Preppy style is a variation of classic style that meets a casual and sophisticated aesthetic with an utterly polished vibe. Preppy in modern days brings a note of youthfulness and unique style by pairing preppy details with modern pieces.
Elements of style
Prints & Patterns
- Prints and patterns are the key elements for a preppy wardrobe and the staples prints are from traditional stripes and checks to plaid and argyle patterns.
Colors
- Start with neutrals as your base like navy, white, beige, and brown, and incorporate some bright hues like green and orange or soft pastels like pink and blue.
Accessories
- Chunky loafers with thick soles are the key for a contemporary preppy style, while the penny loafers are still the sleek signature for the nostalgics of the classic style.
- Ladylike shoes like a slingback or T-bar pumps and heeled loafers in neutral shades are the essential shoes for a preppy style. For a modern look, you can choose a pair of leather or suede block heel with a buckle effect.
- Belts, hats, scarves, bow ties, and hairbands are small details that can add the flair of the preppy style.
Layering up
- Layering up is the trademark of the preppy style, so whenever you can layer up and play with prints.
- Team up a collared shirt with a crewneck sweater and create a modern silhouette with overstated collars and mixed prints.
Knitwear
- Knitted sweaters with V-neck or crewneck, vests, cardigans, and jumpers are the layering pieces for a preppy look.
- Achieve a preppy modern look by pulling a cozy half-zip sweater with stripes over a button-down shirt to bring an elevated twist between classic and contemporary aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is preppy style, exactly?
Preppy style is a variation of classic style that blends a casual yet sophisticated aesthetic with an utterly polished vibe. While it originated in the collegiate uniform of polo shirts, pleated miniskirts, varsity jackets, and knitwear, the modern version pairs those classic preppy details with contemporary pieces for a note of youthfulness and unique style.
Which prints and patterns should I look for in a preppy wardrobe?
Prints and patterns are the key elements of a preppy wardrobe. The staples range from traditional stripes and checks to plaid and argyle patterns, which instantly signal the collegiate heritage of the style.
What colors work best for a grown-up preppy look?
Start with neutrals as your base, such as navy, white, beige, and brown. Then incorporate some bright hues like green and orange, or soft pastels like pink and blue, to bring freshness to the classic foundation.
What shoes go with preppy outfits?
Chunky loafers with thick soles are the key to a contemporary preppy style, while penny loafers remain the sleek signature for those nostalgic for the classic look. Ladylike options like slingbacks, T-bar pumps, and heeled loafers in neutral shades also work beautifully, and a leather or suede block heel with a buckle effect gives a modern touch.
How do I layer clothes the preppy way?
Layering is the trademark of preppy style, so layer up and play with prints whenever you can. Team a collared shirt with a crewneck sweater and create a modern silhouette with overstated collars and mixed prints, or pull a cozy striped half-zip sweater over a button-down shirt for an elevated twist between classic and contemporary.