How to Look Preppy

When thinking about different periods in the history of style and fashion starting from the mid 20th century until today, the one thing that really stands out is that preppy looks have always been considered fashionable and praised for their class and elegance, regardless of what the trends were at the specific time.

Preppy looks have become accepted in fashion in the 1950s and they have been gaining in popularity ever since. Even if “being preppy” is not your choice, “looking preppy” is definitely something you should consider.

Some of the world famous designers and clothing lines that are often associated with preppy fashion are Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Vineyard Vines, Gant, Paul Smith and many more.

New York City is traditionally perceived as the preppy style capital. Preppy is not only a term widely accepted in the fashion industry it also represents a subculture associated with upper-middle-class youth in the United States’ Northeastern States.

The subculture itself had often been subject to mockery and it had been associated with arrogance and snobbery before it turned into a worldwide trend. Nowadays, the term preppy is more commonly linked to looking elegant and stylish rather than to high-society lifestyle.

Now that you learned about the history of this unique fashion style, it’s time to try out some of these great outfits and prepify your wardrobe:

1. Looking Preppy Has Never Been Easier

This look is standard preppy. Find a nice blazer and some cigarette or Capri trouser and you will look smart and elegant for every occasion. This combination is great to wear to work because you will feel comfortable, confident and stylish at the same time.

The inevitable colors are beige, ocher, light brown, navy blue and other neutral and soothing colors. However, it’s good to break up a subtle outfit by adding some noticeable accessory in red, pink, blue or yellow.

Preppy Outfit Combination

  • Outwear: Structured Blazer
  • Pants: Alexander McQueen White Crepe Capri Pants
  • Top: Republic Lace West Top
  • Shoes: Fringe Lace Up Shoes
  • Bag: Madewell Tassel Flat Bag
  • Accessories: Gold Vintage Chain Bracelet and Celine New Audry Sunglasse

2. The Very Girly Preppy Look

This is the perfect vintage feminine look. Regardless of the type of girl you are, there’s always a time in your life when you feel like being a true lady. Choose a pretty skater skirt and a romantic blouse and combine the outfit with some accessories in bold colors. For those chilly summer nights put on a nice knitted sweater and reminisce the late 1950s in style.

Very Girly Preppy Look

  • Top: Silk Georgette Blouse
  • Skirt: Navy Skater Skirt (Riverisland)
  • Accessories: Reiss Xena Stackable Rings
  • Bag: Dooney&Bourke Happy Bag
  • Shoes: Al Wear Kara Pointed Leather Toe Cap Flat

3. The Unconventional Prep

Menswear inspired style! Do not hesitate to meet your new best friend. Feel free to venture into the world of boyfriend looks and express the true femininity you possess. By adding some typical preppy garments to a boyfriend outfit you will bring out that necessary feminine flare. Instead of slim-fit put on some saggy boyfriend jeans and choose a classy rolled sleeve blazer or a knitted sweater.

Oxford shoes or loafers will make this combination even more unconventional. Spice it up with some accessories you don’t usually wear and you are bound to fall madly deeply in love with this unique prepified boyish look.

Unconventional Preppy Style

  • Jeans: Light Denim Cassie Boyfriend Jeans
  • Top: Vero Moda Crochet Top
  • Outwear: Ponte Rolled Sleeve Blazer
  • Accessories: Lenon Round Frame Glasses and Guess Thin Mint Watch
  • Shoes: Steven Alan Oxford Lace Up

Cover photo: http://weheartit.com

About the author

Lisa

Lisa is a young lawyer with various interests and hobbies to keep her mind off her work at times. She is a true fan of contemporary American literature, European movies, Asian food, African Wildlife and all those little things in life that make us genuinely happy.

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