Preppy Wardrobe Essentials
10 Pieces You Need to Stay True to Preppy Style
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One of the best parts about being a self-described "preppy" dresser is that the bulk of one's wardrobe never goes out of style. I rolled up to the first day of high school in tailored khakis, loafers, and a button-down. Today, I might not be setting trends in that look — the normcore moment has passed, after all — but the outfit wouldn't quite look out of date, either.
Another secret perk of preppy dressing is that it makes having a uniform, a go-to daily ensemble, almost criminally easy. Preppy style looks refined and luxurious, but many insiders turn to the look because it cuts down on the time necessary to get ready. The style has a high-fashion connection, too; so many designers who have a signature look turn to staples of the preppy wardrobe.
The Internet's top preppy fashion bloggers agree with my contention that preppy wardrobe staples make the best investments — these 10 essentials will stand the test of time.
1 The Striped Shirt
When in doubt, preps reach for a striped shirt. The grand-mère of striped shirts comes from the French brand Saint James, which is known for blue-and-white- or blue-and-red-striped bateau tops. The shirts are easy to find thanks to a collaboration with J.Crew, which includes its Saint James for J.Crew Colorblock Stripe T-Shirt ($128).
2 The Navy Blazer
Nothing adds crispness to an outfit like a well-pressed navy-blue blazer. A classic shape with lapels, like the Ralph Lauren Collection Yvette Blazer ($1,790), will last forever.
3 Dark Denim
Jeans are a staple in any wardrobe, regardless of style. But preps turn to dark denim again and again. The hue — found on pieces like Loft's Petite Curvy High Waist Skinny Jeans ($70) — adds polish to even casual outfits.
4 Ballet Flats
Keeping with the simple theme, no straightforward shoe ties an outfit together like the ballet flat. E. Porselli's Ballet Flats ($220) are iconic. The ballet flat comes in a variety of colors, heel heights, and with laces.
5 The Barbour Jacket
The Barbour jacket is a wardrobe staple thanks to its versatility. It's great in the rain, is surprisingly good at keeping out the cold, and adds a bit of intrigue to a monochrome outfit. The Barbour Classic Beadnell Jacket ($399) is a classic.
6 The Simple Earring
When it comes to jewelry, true preps are minimalists, hence the enthusiasm for simple stud earrings, whether gold, silver, diamond, or pearl as in the case of Tiffany's Ziegfeld Collection Pearl Earrings ($225).
7 The Button-Down Shirt
No one item is more essential to the preppy wardrobe than the button-down shirt. Ideal colors for the piece are white, blue, or baby pink — bonus points for gingham, madras, or seersucker. Stripes are fabulous too, as found in J.Crew's Tuxedo Shirt ($138). Layering your button-downs is next-level prep.
8 A Chic Loafer
Loafers are both pretty and practical, two qualities of top importance to a prep. Whether brown, black, navy, or mahogany leather, loafers are always in style. Palm Beach-based Stubbs & Wootton is known for its whimsical designs, including the Grey Flannel Slipper ($495). Tassels are a great feature for added effect.
9 The Camel Coat
The camel coat, a versatile and flattering staple, is a perfect Winter investment piece for any serious prep. MaxMara's Pure Cashmere Coat ($3,021, originally $3,356) is one such item, but more affordable options abound.
10 The Tote Bag
Whether trudging to work or heading away for the weekend, a prep's go-to carryall is the tote bag. Totes, whether leather or canvas, are good for any situation and seem to bypass any and all handbag trends. We love L.L.Bean's Hunter's Tote Bag for its fun, fresh spin on the classic. A monogram adds an extrapreppy touch.
