Class is in session.
In partnership with our friends at Ralph Lauren.
Preppy style is all about tailored, timeless pieces—smart knitwear, tweed jackets, and crisp button-downs included. The light dims on the aesthetic every few years, but in recent seasons, it's finding new life all over again. Alongside the boom of Y2K fashion and the resurgence of Gossip Girl, the masses are yearning for sophisticated pieces that transcend a specific trend cycle. Think: oversized blazers cinched atop stirrup leggings, crewneck pullovers layered over button-downs, and varsity sweatshirts paired with loafers and plaid coats.
Whether you’re an innate prepster or just a fan of the trend, continue reading for the essential Ralph Lauren pieces that embody modern preppy style. From shearling separates to prim, polished pieces and smart, scholarly styles, we’re confident you’ll uncover tons of whip-smart pieces worth investing in this season.
Preppy Style Staple #1: Crisp Button-Down Shirts
Is there anything more iconic than a white button-down shirt? We think not, especially as it pertains to preppy style. Just picture Blair Waldorf getting ready in the morning. Crisp and clean, this tailored top adds instant polish to denim, high-rise trousers, and a full skirt (or a pleated mini!). Minimal styles with pointed collars are forever staple, while versions with puffed sleeves, exaggerated cuffs, and oversized silhouettes add a modern touch.
Preppy Style Staple #2: Timeless Knitwear
If ever there was a preppy piece to invest in, it’s a knit. Whether you’re a diehard advocate of the style, or prefer to stay warm and chic during the winter, it’s a must. Cashmere crewnecks, a versatile mid-weight cardigan, and a chunky V-neck can be paired with anything—from flared midi skirts to high-rise denim. This is another category that relies on styling to dial the prep factor up or down.
Preppy Style Staple #3: Sophisticated Footwear
A sensible heel—from a low-to-the-ground slingback to T-bar pumps and prim heeled loafers—is often the crux of every great flirty, preppy ensemble. Leather and suede designs are especially timeless in neutral shades. For a more luxurious effect, steer your selections in a textured direction. (Think: a croc-embossed leather loafer, a soft ballet flat, or velvet pointed-toe Mary Janes.) The best part about these footwear options is that they complement virtually any ensemble put together.
Preppy Style Staple #4: Staple Blazers
Blazers are a hallmark of prepster style, especially those in heritage checks and rich fabrics like tweed, flannel, and wool. But they’ve transcended prep at this point—the blazer has become a mainstay in every fashion-forward wardrobe, whether you’re more into sporty styles or Scandi aesthetics. Take a look at Ralph Lauren’s two-button blazer crafted from Italian wool. Or the Preston Jacket, complete with herringbone tweed and suede patches.
Preppy Style Staple #5: Plaid & Polka-Dot Patterns
A simple way to inject preppy style into your wardrobe is with traditional patterns such as tartan, gingham, glen plaid and polka dots. For tailored attire and cold-weather accessories alike, you can go subtle or bold with those motifs depending on how you wear them (head-to-toe versus a single piece, for example). When building your collection, start with a plaid coat, polka-dotted knitwear, or a flirty cocktail dress to maximize versatility.
Preppy Style Staple #6:- Touches of Shearling
Beside the obvious car coats and wrap coats that reappear every winter, shearling has made its way onto the scene and is taking the industry by storm. Shearling first showcased itself within the prep arena with lined loafers and hats—now, it’s become a texture and detail across winter collections that we can’t live without. You’ll find it on cropped jackets, vests and furry bucket bags for the new season. To keep it preppy, pair it with classics like a tartan dress or a longline blazer.
Posted on 01/01/2023 at 10:00 AM
