Preppy style is officially back and taking center stage for women’s fashion! Let’s be honest, preppy never really goes out of style, it’s just now more popular than ever! With it’s button down blouses, tailored blazers and chic loafers the preppy look is playful and polished. If you’re ready to embrace the classic comeback, I’m excited to share some essential tips and I’ve gathered some stylish preppy options to bring this versatile look into your wardrobe.
Classic Preppy is always in fashion because it represents for the most part established codes of civility, great taste, and good manners. Unlike many other fashion trends Preppy never ever goes out of style.” – Jeffery Banks
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Preppy Style is Back: A Trip Down Memory Lane
Preppy style was all the rage when I was growing up and I’m happy to say it’s making a big return. Wearing blazers, button down shirts, polo shirts, over the shoulder sweaters and loafers all felt effortless and sophisticated. For me, I’m feeling a little bit nostalgic to see this trend back at the forefront of fashion.
Classic preppy of my day, included a lot of pastels…I mean a lot! Modern day preppy has become much broader and that’s a good thing, in my book. While pastels are still present, today’s style has a much wider range of color, including bolder hues, earthy tones and a mix of neutral colors.
The Essential Pieces: Building Your Foundation
Building a preppy wardrobe is built on a few key items that are both versatile and timeless. First, start with a classic blazer or jacket, which will instantly elevate any outfit, whether you pair it with jeans or a pleated skirt. A crisp button down shirt is another staple you can wear in countless ways. For bottoms, invest in well-fitting trousers, a pair of classic khakis or wide leg jeans which work perfectly when pair with other preppy items. Now my favorite part…the shoes! Loafers and ballet flats and “duck boots” as I like to call them, are a must have. These shoes are both comfortable and can be sophisticated.
The Essential Blazer & Coats: Structure and Polish
A blazers and coats can effortlessly add style and elevate simple pieces like jeans and a t-shirt or tie together, trousers and a turtleneck for a more preppy vibe. Look for classics like tweed, wool or corduroy for fall. Tailored is classic preppy but there are modern oversized options to be worn, too. This is the most versatile piece you will invest in for the preppy trend. For another preppy option this fall, look to the classic barn jacket or quilted jackets. They are on major trend and look fantastic with a cable knit sweater or a button-down shirt.
Adirondack Barn Coat, Flannel-Lined
Oversized Coatigan – Dark Green
Classic Knits and Sweaters
A preppy wardrobe isn’t complete unless you don’t have a few knit sweaters! Classic knits and sweaters are perfect for layering, especially as the weather cools. This season, look to add a timeless sweater, such as cable knit. Novelty sweaters with animals are also trending, along with sweater vests. Vests are perfect for layering over a button down blouse and add a modern look to the classic preppy style.
Vintage Cable Knit Heavy Crewneck
Slouchy Cable-Knit Cardigan Sweater
Women’s Crewneck Soft Knit Sweater
Falling for Foxes Sweater – Coldwater Creek
Women’s Drifter Rugby with Woven Collar Sweater
Tailored Trousers
Well fitting bottoms are a staple when it comes to preppy outfits, which is why today’s preppy comeback includes everything from the classic khaki to the wide-leg trousers or jeans. Below are some of my favorites which also come in several colors.
Free Assembly Women’s Wide Leg Jeans with Pockets
Cotton Pleated Chinos – L.L. Bean
Chino High Rise Barrel Leg Utility Ankle Pants
Crisp Shirts and Blouses
Women’s Long Sleeve No Iron Broadcloth Shirt
Twin Striped No-Iron Long Sleeve Shirt
Ruisin Button Down Striped Shirt
Essential Footwear: Loafers, Flats, and Classic Styles
I’ve always loved a good pair of shoes. Loafers, boat shoes, duck books or ballet flats all lend themselves to the classic preppy style. Below are some of my favorites!
Franco Sarto Women’s Carolynn Lug Sole Loafer
Minorsu Women’s Black Animal Print Buckle Mules
Osslue Women’s Suede Leather Casual Penny Loafers
Sperry Women’s Torrent Chelsea Boot
Hunter Women’s Play Short Boot Rain
From Classic to Contemporary: Giving Preppy a Modern Twist
This new modern preppy look isn’t about being dated. It’s about adding fresh details that make the style feel current. Think about proportions. Pair a fitted top with an oversized blazer or wide-leg pants. Texture is another great way to modernize your outfit; think about a chunky knit sweater or a tweed blazer. Experimenting with color is another great option. Although classic khaki and white are timeless adding a bold plaid can make your outfit stand out.
The Finishing Touches: Accessories That Make the Look
Yes, there are accessories that lean towards preppy and they are the final step in perfecting your look. I love pearls and they are the perfect preppy accessory. A pretty structured tote bag or a classic crossbody bag can hold your everyday essentials while maintaining a polished appearance. Silk scarfs tied around your neck or your crossbody bag can complete your preppy vibe.
Women’s Messenger Preppy Handbag
Ready to Embrace Your Preppy Style?
The comeback of women’s preppy fashion is proof that some looks are truly timeless. By combining classic preppy outfits with a few modern pieces, you can master the elegant look. So, whether you’re rediscovering the preppy trend, like me, or discovering it for the first time, I hope you embrace this timeless yet updated fashion trend!
Here’s to preppy and happy shopping!
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You can never go wrong with the LLBean barn coat…mine from 30 years ago still looks brand new!!
So true!