What Is Preppy Style?

Plunging necklines don't go with preppy style. Find out what else you should avoid and, above all, what you should add.

Pastels, loafers, skirts and plaid pants are back! It’s preppy style. This classic, yet daring look is gaining a lot of likes (and dislikes) and is becoming a new trend in today’s fashion. Although it comes from American high schools, its return is marked by the influence of Japanese culture.

Do you like to try new styles? Don’t miss this opportunity!

Preppy style is characterized by being sporty, casual, and sexy at the same time, typical of the student elite of the 70s and 80s. But be careful, you have to be clear about some general notions at the time of combining.

How to look “preppy” without dying in the attempt?

We know that the preppy style allows some impossible combinations. But without a doubt, there are key pieces of clothing you must have, and then there are other garments you should leave in the closet because they don’t go.

Tips to create a preppy style for women

When creating a preppy outfit you should mix and match a variety of garments, but following a few clear guidelines. For example, necklines are out of place.

• Stripes are the order of the day and you can include them in blouses, tights, dresses, shorts, polo shirts, and sweaters.
• Do you like prints? Try shades of red, blue, and white.
• Square-heeled loafers are the key footwear in this look. However, striped and esparto sandals are acceptable.
• Skirts are a resounding yes. If preppy style is characterized by something, it’s for its beautiful, colorful pleated skirts – striped, plaid, monochromatic, or in combinations. Try to make them long, but don’t go below the knees.
• Wear lace shirts or blouses. They’re feminine and elegant.
• Looking to add a layer to your preppy outfit? Try a matching pullover, and add a beautiful blazer with gold buttons. Don’t forget to incorporate plaid or trench coat styles with geometric cuffs and lapels.

Tips to get the best preppy style for men

The preppy trend gives men a great look. If you want to achieve it, these fashion tips will help you.

• A great touch is to wear a shirt with long stripes and a distinctive, simulating a college coat of arms.
• It’s time for v-neck sweaters, preferably in pastel colors, which you can combine with a beautiful tie and a light-colored shirt. A typical American college uniform.
• Shorts are back and boy, do they stand out. Choose one with a checkered pattern, preferably in beige. Can you imagine yourself in it already?
• Wait for it! Shoes. We can’t forget this important garment. A monkstrap shoe will give you the style you are looking for. You can also try brogues or, if you prefer a less formal style, nautical shoes.

Beware! Don’t confuse “preppy” style with other styles

Preppy style gives a youthful, contemporary feel. There are many garments that can simulate it, but that doesn’t mean they belong to this trend.

If you want to keep originality, you should keep in mind the following:

• Avoid wearing risky necklines.
• Being feminine is perfect, but don’t overdo it.
• Dressing entirely in dark tones is not preppy. Use light colors and pastels. Combine with a striking color.

Get inspired by celebrities

This style is among the favorites of many celebrities and even characters on the big and small screen. New York actress and model Olivia Palermo is known as the queen of preppy, so it’s a good idea to look for inspiration among her latest looks.

Taylor Swift is also another representative of the genre. And how can we forget the iconic Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl (in the cover photo) and Charlotte York from Sex and the City?