What is Preppy Style?

Recently, I had a conversation with a teenager about different style asthetics with clothing. She was researching Preppy Style and was looking on Pinterest for inspo like so many women, no matter our age, do. What surprised me? What was popping up.

She was talking about sweatpants with polo shirts and clogs. She was discussing huge sweatshirts and shorts with sneakers. I was so confused and quickly explained that was not preppy style.

Afterwards, I had a few conversations with other teenagers who were under the same impression. These conversations inspired me to write a blog post about Preppy Style. It is such a classic style, rooted in American Ivy League history, that I am not thinking there will be a change to this style just because a younger generation says so. HA! We shall see. The stylist side of me couldn't help but write a blog post about what Preppy Style really is. Hopefully this helps anyone who may be confused or was wanting to hone in on the style themselves.

There are key elements to Preppy Style. If these elements aren't included at some combination, it's not part of the Preppy aesthetic.

1. Blazers. Blazers are a cornerstone of the style. The more structured the blazer, the better. The blazer we are featuring in the store this Fall has a floral twist, but it's the lines that make it preppy.

2. Button Ups. Button ups and collared shirts are preppy to the core. Wearing these tops with a little casual flare is what makes it even preppier and separates an office look from this Ivy League inspired style.

3. Polos. Polos, especially inspired by the designer Ralph Lauren and LaCoste are as preppy as this style gets. 

4. Chinos/Trousers. A great pair of pants can be hard to find and a preppy style chino can be even more difficult. This pair of trousers we have in the store is an excellent example of Preppy Style.

5. Sweaters, usually cable knit or argyle. They can be vest or stand alone styles. The look is to be a little fussy if it is going to be characterized as Preppy.

6. Paid or Tweed. Think classic looks, but with a school girl flare. These fabric features can make or break a preppy look. We love a great tweed, especially this time of year.

7. Loafers, ballet slippers, boat shoes. The shoes will make or break the outfit if it is to be considered preppy. Thankfully, Mary Jane styles are hot this season. 

8. Tailored denim. Which means denim with a tapered leg and a slimmer line in the body. Denim comes in so many different styles, but if it is to be Preppy, it really needs to have a taper at the ankle. The Sienna jeans in the store are a perfect style for Preppy and bonus, they're comfy!

9. Belts. Belts and other items that finish an outfit are a necessity for preppy style. The more simple the belt, the more preppy the look.

10. Layered looks. Preppy style often has layered looks that some might call fussy. Button down shirts under sweaters and jackets are some easy ways to make a look turn preppy.

Hopefully this easy 10 point list helps you understand the style better as you as determining what look you love the most. Notice sweatpants, wide leg jeans and clogs are not mentioned anywhere in this aesthetic. Just pointing that out for ya!