Preppy Style - Don't be conservative, that's how college chic works!
Preppy style - the "brave" school uniform look is anything but conservative! Whether it's a pleated skirt, a houndstooth pattern or a sweater vest, this style always works. For many, the preppy look may seem too good at first glance, but we will prove you the opposite.
Read on and find out what the college look is all about and which clothes you can use to recreate the preppy style in no time at all.
The preppy style - from upper class to streetwear
Does the term “preppy style” mean anything to you? Then pay attention!
"Preppy" or abbreviated "Prep" stands for the English term "Preparatory School". The college look refers to the traditional school uniforms of elite American private schools or boarding schools.
Most of the time, children from more privileged families - the upper class - attend these elite schools. Due to their family background, the "Preppies" often have a luxurious lifestyle. This cultivated lifestyle is also reflected in her formal college look. Therefore, in German, the word "preppy" is still mostly translated as "snooty" or "dapper". Now more than ever, the preppy style is experiencing a revival with popular Netflix series such as “Élite” or “Baby”. The series show how modern the college look can be.
It doesn't matter if you're a real preppy fan or just love the trend. Read on now to discover the pieces of clothing to master the preppy style women's look.
Preppy aesthetic – know how!
A bit conservative, but not a bit boring - that's how the Preppy aesthetic can be described. Those of you who want to try out the preppy style and don't want to look too well-behaved should definitely opt for style breaks. How do you manage that? It is best to decide on one or two typical preppy style pieces and combine them with trendy streetwear pieces. This breaks up the look a bit and at the same time makes it appear much more suitable for everyday use.
Let's get to the preppy style women's essentials for your preppy outfits:
#Sweater
The sleeveless sweater with a V-neck has blossomed into an absolute preppy style piece and should therefore not be missing in any wardrobe. The sweater vest might have a bit of a nerdy flavor to it, but it's a prepster must-have and quite stylish when it comes to modern outfits. A patterned version in argyle or check immediately looks edgy when combined with leather, for example. You can also wear them over blouses for a more subtle look. Another modern option is to wear a sweater vest solo and complete it with elegant jewelry.
#polo shirts
Another basic of the preppy outfit is the polo shirt. You can't go wrong, especially in the classic preppy colors of white, beige, blue and pink or with subtle stripes. Today you have the choice - whether with a classic collar, short button placket or in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The polo shirts come into their own most casually when they are combined with trousers or jeans.
#Button down blouses
Is there anything more iconic than a white button-down blouse? We don't think so! Especially not when it comes to preppy fashion. This top instantly puts the finishing touches on jeans, high-waisted trousers and skirts. Minimalist models with strict collars always look classically elegant. While versions with puffed sleeves, exaggerated cuffs, hidden buttons and delicate chain details appear more modern.
#Blazer
Blazers are another hallmark of Prepster style. Especially those with traditional checks and rich fabrics like tweed, flannel and wool.
Dressed over knitwear or Breton stripes, even the most formal blazer gets a chic edge. Checks are a great blazer option for those of you wanting to embrace this trend in its purest form, but color block work great too.
#chinos
Jeans may be the trend of the moment, and the followers of the preppy style wear them too. But if you're looking for a dressy look, chinos are the ultimate. Khaki pants are among the most universal models, whether with pleats, narrow or high cut. But they are not the only option. Checked and wide trouser legs made of wool are just as chic, whether they are worn loosely or with a tailored fit.
#pleated skirts
Mini skirts with pleats dominated preppy outfits back then. The mini is suitable for everyday wear when worn with thick tights and a sweater. Preppy lovers should opt for pleated versions.
Colors and patterns in preppy style
We now know which clothes make up the elite look. But what do we have to look out for when it comes to colors and patterns? Muted colors such as brown, dark blue, white or beige in particular are typical of the preppy style. Colors such as mustard yellow, red or orange are also common. It is important to skillfully combine colors in a simple way. An outfit in preppy style should not be colorful. The quality of the pieces is particularly important for an elite look. High-quality materials are therefore among the favorites of the preppies.
#Checks & Plaids
Plaids like tartan, gingham, and glen plaid are an easy way to add a touch of preppy to your wardrobe. Used both subtly and boldly, you're sure to make a fashion statement.
#Tweed
Tweed is an absolute favorite of the Preppies. Whether plain, herringbone or tartan - the wool fabric stands for rural glamour. For the ultimate preppy look, we recommend a bold printed tweed jacket worn with a matching skirt or trousers. Combined with jeans, tweed looks casual.
#Argyle
No pattern defines preppy style quite like Argyle. But the diamond-shaped, checkered motif can also be incredibly bold, adding three-dimensionality and movement to a look. It doesn't matter whether you choose a traditional sweater or a slightly modern interpretation in the form of a dress or skirt, this outfit is always elegant.
Our conclusion: the preppy style
Fashion is still a matter of taste! Our styling suggestions are therefore intended as a source of inspiration for you - what you make of them is entirely up to you! Because fashion should be fun. The Preppy aesthetic has a lot to offer our closets. Above all, it appeals to those of us who value both durability and versatility in clothing.
You want more preppy style women inspirations?
- Then please follow us Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.
- Or browse our website Shop and discover more preppy style women's essentials for your preppy outfits.
