If you admire Ali MacGraw’s look in Love Story, you probably have a preppy fashion sense. This style is rooted in prep school attire and remains timeless across seasons and generations.
What is Preppy Style?
Preppy style is inspired by collegiate fashion. Though casual, it doesn’t mean your wardrobe is just denim and jeans. You likely also enjoy wearing skirts, dresses, and classic blouses with details like pussy bows or Peter Pan collars.
How to Identify a Preppy Style Personality
As a lover of preppy style, you might also be drawn to classic and natural styles. You favor cozy knits, checks, stripes, and flat shoes made from natural materials like leather and wool.
If you’re unsure about your style, you could explore it further with a fun style personality quiz.
You Enjoy Clean-Cut Looks
Distressed jeans and moto jackets aren’t your thing. You prefer blazers, v-neck sweaters, and classic jeans styles such as bootcut or straight-leg. Thankfully, preppy styles and check prints are very in vogue right now.
You’re Not a Slave to Trends
You prioritize having a wardrobe full of essentials over constantly buying trendy pieces. For more ideas, you might want to explore the 33 essentials every woman over 40 should have.
Stripes are Everywhere in Your Wardrobe
Stripes are likely the most common pattern in your closet because preppy style also nods to nautical fashion.
You Love Collared Dresses and Shirts
While you also wear t-shirts and boat necks, collared clothing like Peter Pan collars, button-down shirts, shirt dresses, and polo styles are your favorites.
Pants or Skirts? No Preference
Your preppy style means you’re equally comfortable in pants or skirts, and you probably have a balanced mix of both in your wardrobe.
Celebrities Who Love Preppy Style
Younger celebrities like Emma Watson and Olivia Palermo, as well as style icons like Alexa Chung, Gwyneth Paltrow, Reese Witherspoon, and Kate Middleton, often sport preppy looks. Historical figures like Jackie O and Grace Kelly also epitomized this style.
Designers You Might Like
If you’re into preppy fashion, you likely appreciate designers like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Thom Browne, Paul Smith, and Stella McCartney. These designers blend clean-cut, classic styles with a hint of “geek” chic.
Preppy Clothing and Accessories
Let’s dive into some key clothing, shoe, and accessory styles that define preppy fashion. Also included is a capsule wardrobe for a preppy look this summer.
Tops for a Preppy Look
Your tops range from casual polo necks and Breton-striped tops to more dressy blouses with Peter Pan collars or pussy bow details.
Preppy Sweaters
Essential for preppy style are classic sweaters and cardigans. Look for v-necks, cable knits, and varsity or cricket-style stripes. Sleeveless sweaters to layer over shirts are also great.
Outerwear for Preppy Style
For cooler weather, a fitted, padded vest over shirts and v-neck sweaters is ideal. Classic blazers, quilted coats, and plaid patterns are also staples. For winter, consider a warm duffle coat with a toggle fastening.
Jeans and Pants for Preppy Style
Your jeans and pants should be clean-cut and timeless. Classic styles without distressing and options with checks or defined creases are perfect. Sailor styles might also appeal to you.
Dresses and Skirts for Preppy Style
Your wardrobe likely includes an equal mix of pants and skirts. Look for pleated skirts and dresses with collars, full skirts, stripes, or pleats. Shorter skirts with opaque tights can also fit this style.
Shoes for Preppy Style
Preppy shoes are classic and mostly flat. You might prefer loafers with bows or tassels, brogues, Oxfords, and flat knee-high boots. For summer, sneakers or boat shoes are great, and for formal occasions, Mary Janes work well.
Accessories for Preppy Style
Keep accessories understated. Classic satchels, well-made leather gloves, long wool scarves, and headbands are key. Jewelry is minimal, like diamond or pearl stud earrings and a tasteful watch.
Favorite Preppy Clothing Brands
Some go-to brands for preppy style include Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade New York, J.Crew, Boden, Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Marks & Spencer, Longchamp, Ted Baker London, Mulberry, and Tory Burch.
Preppy Outfit Ideas
Below are several preppy outfits you can mix and match to create a versatile summer wardrobe.
This style is timeless, and previous season preppy items remain fashionable.
Discover Your Style Personality and Learn More
For further exploration, consider taking a style personality quiz or delve into capsule wardrobe creation and various fashion styles.