Preppy fashion is a timeless style that originated in the Ivy League schools of the United States, characterized by its clean lines, classic pieces, and sophisticated yet approachable look. Although it’s often seen as a traditional and conservative style, the modern preppy aesthetic has evolved and adapted to the current fashion landscape. Here’s how to add a fresh twist to this iconic look while still honoring its roots.
1. Embrace Bold Colors and Patterns
Traditionally, preppy fashion relied on muted tones like navy, white, and khaki. While these are still key colors in a preppy wardrobe, modern preppy fashion embraces bolder hues and patterns. Incorporate bright, cheerful colors like pastel pinks, greens, or yellows into your outfits. Stripes, plaids, and gingham patterns are still staples, but don’t hesitate to mix and match these patterns in new ways. A striped blazer paired with gingham trousers or a plaid skirt with a pastel sweater can give your look a playful, modern vibe.
2. Incorporate Contemporary Silhouettes
While the traditional preppy look features a lot of structured, tailored pieces, modern preppy fashion embraces more relaxed and oversized fits. Opt for oversized blazers, slouchy trousers, or loose-fitting sweaters to add a contemporary edge. This doesn’t mean sacrificing the classic, polished look tailoring is still essential but it’s about creating a balance between structure and comfort. A well-fitted polo shirt with oversized khakis or a crisp button-up with a slightly relaxed skirt can update the style while keeping its preppy roots.
3. Upgrade Footwear Choices
When it comes to footwear, the traditional preppy style has long been dominated by loafers, boat shoes, and oxford shoes. To give your look a modern twist, try incorporating more contemporary footwear like chunky sneakers, platform sandals, or even ankle boots. These additions maintain the polished vibe of preppy style but add a bit of edge and practicality. White sneakers, for example, can balance out a more sophisticated preppy outfit while adding a trendy and youthful flair.
4. Accessorize with a Modern Touch
Accessories play a crucial role in completing any preppy look. For a modern preppy outfit, experiment with accessories that update the style without overwhelming it. Opt for sleek, minimalist bags in neutral or bold tones, such as a crossbody or a structured tote. Adding modern jewelry, like delicate gold chains or statement earrings, can also elevate the preppy aesthetic. Instead of the traditional headbands or pearls, try a trendy scarf, a smart watch, or a pair of sunglasses with a contemporary frame.
5. Mix in Street Style Elements
Incorporating street style into a preppy look is a great way to update the aesthetic without losing its essence. Think of pairing a preppy button-down shirt with trendy cargo pants or adding a sporty jacket like a bomber or windbreaker over a classic collared shirt. Mixing high and low fashion such as pairing a tailored blazer with a graphic tee creates an effortlessly cool preppy look that is relevant for today’s fashion landscape.
6. Sustainability in Preppy Fashion
As sustainability continues to gain importance in fashion, incorporating eco-friendly pieces into a preppy wardrobe is an excellent way to modernize the style. Choose brands that focus on ethical production, use sustainable fabrics, or promote slow fashion. Vintage stores are another great resource for finding timeless preppy pieces, such as blazers, skirts, and wool sweaters. This not only updates the look with a unique and personalized touch but also aligns with the modern preppy mindset of conscious living.
7. Create a Balanced Wardrobe
At its core, preppy fashion is about balance classic pieces combined with a polished, relaxed attitude. To keep your modern preppy wardrobe fresh, focus on the foundation of key pieces like polos, blazers, and cardigans, and then build around them with updated fits, colors, and accessories. The trick is to ensure that every item maintains the sophistication and simplicity of preppy style, but with a contemporary, fresh twist.
Modern preppy fashion allows for creativity and personal expression while staying rooted in timeless pieces. By incorporating bolder colors, modern silhouettes, trendy footwear, and accessories, anyone can make the preppy aesthetic their own, creating a look that feels both classic and fresh.
