If there's one thing for certain, it's that preppy fashion is always in vogue. From the crisp button-downs and bright-colored polos to tailored chinos and sweaters (casually draped over the shoulders), a peppy outfit is always put-together and polished, whether you're headed to work or out with friends.
Ahead, you'll find some of our favorite pieces to prep up your wardrobe. With layerable shirts and sweaters, timeless accessories, and spring- and summer-ready pants, you'll have everything you need to achieve that aspirational All-American style.
Banana Republic Riley Tailored-Fit Shirt
Perhaps the most-worn item of any prepster's wardrobe is a crisp, white button-down [1] ($70). Tuck it into a pair of chinos, slip on a pair of loafers, and suddenly you're a stylish professional ready to go about their day. We love the tailored fit of this particular button-down. It's the ideal layer for under a cozy crewneck sweater. Collar popped, of course.
Banana Republic Cotton Cableknit Sweater
A cable-knit sweater [2] ($160) is a preppy-wardrobe essential, great for chilly spring evenings over a polo or a late summer day with a pair of bermuda shorts. Made from 100 percent cotton, this chunky knit is luxuriously soft and breathable — making it a perfect layer for your new button-down.
Banana Republic Straw Headband
For when you want a preppy accent, this straw headband [3] ($20) in Coral Glow is just the thing. We love the instant pop of color if the rest of your outfit is feeling a bit too neutral. Plus, it's extremely useful if you're having a bad hair day. It happens to the best of us!
Banana Republic Linen Bermuda Short
As the weather warms, bermuda shorts [4] ($100) make for a preppy solution to work-appropriate bottoms. While most shorts err on the too-short side, these shorts come just down to the knee with a high-rise waist and a relaxed fit. Made from ultrabreathable linen, they'll keep you looking polished and feeling comfortable even on the warmest days.
Banana Republic Sloan Cargo Chino
Pink, green, salmon, navy — these are the colors that define prep. That's why we love these cargo chino [5] ($65) pants in Passion Punch. They'll stand out in a crowd of beiges and whites and fit like a dream with a high rise and cropped bottom. Made with a touch of spandex, they have just the right amount of give to get you through your day, no matter what you have planned.
Banana Republic Italian Twill Riding Jacket
A riding jacket just sounds preppy, doesn't it? This stunning three-button blazer [6] ($230) will work overtime in your all-American wardrobe. With a notch lapel and sculpting and princess seams, its equestrian style is as chic as it is flattering. Pop it on over a polo, accessorize with a silk scarf and some pearls, and you'll be ready to head off to the races.
Banana Republic Cashmere Sweater Polo
Polos are notoriously preppy, but make yours cashmere, and they'll turn into your most cherished wardrobe pieces. We love them on their own or layered with a button-down underneath, johnny collars open. This sweater [7] ($200) has slightly wide shoulders and tapers into your hips, making it flattering, cozy, and supremely luxurious.
Banana Republic Classic Fit Linen Shirt
For a preppy spin on a classic button-down, pick up this light linen number [8] ($90) (with stripes, please). Because of its relaxed fit, it's easy to do a half tuck into some chinos or bermuda shorts. Open the collar, then put a light sweater over your shoulders, and you'll exude that effortlessly cool preppy vibe.
Banana Republic Double-Drop Pearl Earrings
When it comes to accessories, nothing is more preppy than pearl earrings. But these Aureus + Argent drops [9] ($65, originally $99) are so much more eye-catching than your basic studs. Made with a pair of funky sculptural baroque pearls, these earrings will be the sophisticated, elegant cherry on top of your preppy wardrobe.