It’s a cool fall day, and you’re crossing a college campus like you’re in a movie. As you fix your nicely layered sweater over a clean button-down, the leaves crunch beneath your classic leather loafers. People turn. You’ve perfected the preppy style.
But what really keeps people interested year after year in this aesthetic?
Hello from the world of preppy fashion, where classic style rubs shoulders with some modern flair.
This lifestyle effortlessly mixes sophistication with a dash of mischievous defiance to make it more than just a style. You are right in the perfect place if you ever wondered how to achieve this professional look.
By the end of this, you’ll be able to confidently embrace your inner Blair Waldorf as we explore the art of preppy fashion.
The Preppy Aesthetic: What’s All The Fuss About?
Preppy fashion is comparable to the stylish high school student who is also the class valedictorian in secret. It’s sophisticated yet carefree, timeless yet adaptable.
This style, which originated on early 20th-century Ivy League campuses, was associated with privilege, wealth, and a certain level of academic competence. However, today?
Any individual who truly indulges in luxury and has fun knowing how to enjoy themselves with style is the target.
Preppy fashion is kind of like the greatest hits album for your closet-it contains timeless stuff.
We’re talking navy blazers, pleated skirts, crisp button-down shirts, and, of course, those classic polo shirts. The magic ingredient?
Great craftsmanship and simple designs that convey effortless style. Preppy ensembles are great whether heading to a business meeting or a brunch date.
- A Brief Stroll Down Preppy Lane
Let’s take it back a little. The preppy look has quite strong roots within the prestigious walls of Ivy League colleges; it doesn’t come overnight.
Students started crafting this look in the early 1900s, and it represented their wealthy background and intellectual interests.
Cultural icons such as Princess Diana-who efficiently mixed vintage pieces with contemporary styles-mushroomed this look in the 1950s and 1960s.
Then came the 1980s, when Lisa Birnbach’s “The Official Preppy Handbook” hit bestseller lists.
From boat shoes to navy jackets, everyone wanted to be part of the preppy style. And, of course, there’s the 2000s, when Blair Waldorf of Gossip Girl cast a spell over all of us with her impeccably designed outfits. Her style – strong, developed, and with just the right amount of sass – took the preppy image to new heights.
How to Nail The Preppy Look
So, then, how to become that little Ivy Leaguer? Cher, it’s all about the necessities. And here’s your top-to-bottom guide on learning all about preppy style:
1. Build Your Preppy Capsule Wardrobe
Let’s just get the basics down. What you want is to have only a few core pieces in your preppy wardrobe so that you can mix and match them in creating the most infinite variety of looks. Imagine it as a tool kit for your very own style.
Must-Have Pieces:
- Crisp button-down shirts
- Navy blazer
- Khaki pants
- Sweater vests
- Rugby shirts
- Polo shirts
- Pleated skirts
- Boat shoes
2. Play with Patterns
Any old classic is a scream of preppy-ness. Argyle, stripes, and plaid are instantly going to class-up whatever ensemble you’re wearing; try different kinds mixed and matched, but keep the palette consistent.
3. Master The Art of Layering
The foundation of preppy style is layering. Cable-knit over button-down; rugby with tweed. The looks are always effortlessly chic, and the combinations are endless.
4. Embrace The Preppy Color Palette
While classic prep prefers muted color schemes, you don’t have to be afraid to introduce a pop of color into the scene. Consider it: bold red or soft pastel pink with muted neutral tones of beige and grey.
5. Accessorize, Darling!
Without the proper accessories, a preppy outfit is not complete. Your closest friends are loafers, ties, headbands, and pearls. And socks are just as much a statement of style as they are to keep your toes from freezing.
- The Modern Preppy: A Fresh Take on A Classic Look
The truth is that preppy style isn’t a thing of the past. The preppy look of today has changed, and it focuses on combining traditional elements with contemporary touches.
Old Preppy vs. New Preppy:
- Old Preppy: Consider pleated skirts, structured jackets, and an extremely refined, nearly formal style.
- New Preppy: Adopts a more laid-back, eclectic style. It involves combining classic items with modern silhouettes, a dash of street style flair, and surprising pairings.
Consider the traditional gray skirt and blazer combination. It looks classic and completely current when paired with white stockings and clunky loafers.
The Preppy vs. Old Money Aesthetic: What’s The Difference?
So you may ask yourself: What is old money style and preppy? They are not so different, although maybe actually different in some ways.
- Old Money Aesthetic: Classic, elegant, and reserved. It speaks of subtle elegance, with timeless styles and muted colors.
- Preppy Aesthetic: Younger and more fun. With a preference for vivid colors and athletic accents, it draws inspiration from university customs and athletics.
Therefore, preppy fashion is more like a crisp gin and tonic—refreshing, with a little kick—than the old money image, which is like a great wine.
Preppy Aesthetic Outfit Ideas: Get Inspired!
Are you prepared to design your own preppy looks? To get you started, consider these outfit suggestions:
1. Suit And Loafers: Break out the skirt with clunky loafers and white socks to make it really preppy while still rocking that old-money appearance in a blazer and skirt combo.
2. Vest, Mini Skirt & A Tie: A tie is the ultimate preppy look. Wear with a mini, a knit vest, socks, and loafers.
3. Layer Up: The sweater and checkered skirt are the ultimate preppy pieces. Never forget to add a white shirt underneath for the full refinement effect.
4. Pop of Color: Add your personality to this outfit with some bold colors such as a yellow polo shirt or scarlet tights.
5. Tennis Skirt And Sweatshirt: The most important preppy staple is the tennis skirt. Pair it with a collared sweater for an athletic yet stylish look.
Conclusion
I love this preppy style since it’s very adaptable. It’s that style that lets you show off your individuality while still adhering to conventional fashion standards.
Therefore, don’t be scared to try new things.
Mix and match patterns, go for bright colors, throw in some stylish items into the mix, and most importantly, have fun with your looks.
It’s now time to start testing the styles with your wardrobe by following this guide if you need advice on perfecting that preppy look.
Which style do you most want to try first? Let us know which of these preppy clothes you like best by leaving a comment below or by taking a little survey.
And don’t forget to forward this information to your stylish friends. Share the love of preppy!