Preppy dressing has always been a classic, sophisticated style. This trend captures the hearts of fashion enthusiasts as we shift further away from pandemic pantslessness.
Whether you’ve been preppy since you were, or pretended to be, in prep school or still trying to rehabilitate yourself from your pajama days it’s a relatively accessible style to step into.
Keys to Prep
To achieve the perfect preppy look, there are a few key elements to incorporate into what is essentially a capsule wardrobe. These include polo shirts, Oxford shoes, skirts (including tennis skirts if you’re feeling a little flirty) and blouses.
Solid-color T-shirts, cardigans, blazers and khakis also are essential. These classic pieces form the foundation of preppy style and are easy to mix and match so you can reinvent yourself with a new ensemble every day.
Casual is Still Chic
Our new embrace of preppiness is the antidote to the sloppy excess of working from home, but we can still be less than uptight for a weekend or afternoon get-together.
You can start with a crisp polo shirt paired with a pleated skirt or pair of slacks. Complete the outfit with a pair of loafers or classic white sneakers. Don’t be afraid to add some pops
of color with accessories like a vibrant scarf or a statement belt.
This combination of staples will ensure you look chic and put-together.
Working in Everything
Incorporating preppy elements into your work attire can add a touch of sophistication to your professional look. Opt for a tailored blouse with a high-waisted pencil skirt or slacks for a polished ensemble. Complete the outfit with a pair of Oxford shoes or kitten heels for a clean yet refined appearance.
Don’t forget to accessorize with minimalistic jewelry and a structured handbag or briefcase to elevate your workwear.
Accessorize with Precision
Accessories will play a vital role in completing your look. Opt for timeless pieces like a pearl necklace, a silk scarf or a classic leather belt. These will add a touch of elegance and enhance your outfit.
Additionally, you’ll want to style your hair in a neat and polished manner, such as a sleek ponytail or a refined updo. A headband, ball cap or beret puts a stylish lid on your outfit.
The Guy Side
Preppy style is rooted in the elite boys’ boarding schools that funneled their alums onto Ivy League campuses. It grew to incorporate vibrant colors and patterns within the template, such as salmon-pink trousers and sweaters, argyle-patterned sweaters and socks or striped shirts and tam-o-shanter hats with tassels.
Take advantage of this latitude to express your individuality in every way you see fit.
Button Down and Tuck In
As a whole, the preppy trend is made up of pieces that never really went away but are gaining new currency in a world that’s trying to get back on track after the massive disruptions of the pandemic.
Regardless of whether you’re returning to the office at least part of the time or punching in from the comfort of your home, choosing a more structured style of dress will help you direct your focus on your work and personal activities and set yourself up for effectiveness and results in all areas of your life.
