What do a polo shirt, a striped shirt and lace-up shoes have in common? Could one piece transform an everyday look into a perfect classic? This fall brings a stylish return to preppy style, which is at once simple, timeless and accessible.
Preppy Style is like that ex-boyfriend you never forget – he always reappears in your life, looking better than ever and reeking of nostalgia mixed with irresistible charm. It is the fashion language of the privileged, the sophisticated and the chosen, which, despite its elitist beginnings, has become the most democratized style of contemporary fashion.
And while it may sound like something only wealthy heirs and golfers with Yale degrees wear, preppy is no longer just a style, it's a cultural phenomenon. It's mixing street fashion, high fashion, and TikTok generation, creating fashion icons and redefining what it means to be elegantly rebellious.
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From campus to catwalk: The history of preppy style
The origins of the preppy aesthetic date back to the early 1950s, when wealthy American students at prestigious universities like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton wore clothing that was synonymous with status, discipline, and the understated charm of the privileged. Think polo shirts, V-neck knit sweaters, loafers, and button-down shirts.
“Preppy” comes from the term “preparatory school,” which refers to an elite private high school where young American aristocrats honed their manners, rhetoric, and taste in fashion.
In the 1980s, preppy also exploded in popular culture, especially with the publication of the cult book The Official Preppy Handbook (1980), which satirically glorified the style as something between irony and social status. The style then spread into the mainstream and became iconic.
Who still wears preppy today? Timeless classics with the signature of major fashion houses
Preppy never really went away, but its renaissance is happening right now. Fashion houses like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and Tory Burch, are its main ambassadors, reinterpreting this look with each new year.
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Ralph Lauren is almost synonymous with preppy style – its campaign with riders, sailing motifs and country classicism is preppy at its most prestigious.
Thom Browne but turns preppy on its head and gives it an artistic, almost conceptual twist: dresses that are like something out of an Ivy League dream, with sharp edges and theatrical precision.
Let's not forget either Miu Miu, which adds a rebellious, French-cocky charm to the preppy girl, with mini skirts, retro jackets, and a soft, sharp-edged girlishness.
Key pieces for preppy style: A uniform with character
Although the preppy style originated in elite American universities, it has long since transcended the confines of prestigious campuses and has also become a household name on the streets of Europe. It focuses on clean lines, neatness and understated elegance – without unnecessary exaggeration.
In the fall of 2025, preppy is making a comeback in response to trend oversaturation and the desire for timeless, wearable fashion.
1. Polo shirt – the basic element of the new season
The polo shirt is a piece that elegantly combines sportiness and sophistication. A symbol of informal luxury. It goes great with a pleated skirt, classic jeans or high-waisted trousers. Choose from neutral tones such as navy, grey or beige, which are easy to combine. Wear it tucked into trousers or a skirt, with the collar up (for those who dare).
2. A lightweight V-neck sweater or knit vest – a transitional piece that stays with you all year round
A sweater is a must-have fall piece. You can throw it over your shoulders for a “weekend in the Hamptons” look or wear it over a shirt in a fitted combination for a more traditional look. The key is in the details: ideally in pastel colors or with diamonds.
3. Loafers and Oxford shoes
Shoes that scream: “My grandma has a yacht in Connecticut.” Leather loafers, preferably with studs, or classic Oxford shoes add an intellectual charm to the look. Preppy shoes are known for their functionality and impeccable design. Moccasins with a slightly pointed sole or updated boat shoes are great for everyday wear.
Made of faux leather or fabric with a memory foam insert, they offer comfort even when worn for long periods of time. The rule of preppy style is: less is more – neutral colors and minimalist accessories do more than flashy fashion details.
4. Pleated mini skirt
A must-have piece for every preppy girl. It can be checked, solid or buttoned. Inspired by school uniforms, but always with that touch of rebellious playfulness. With the combination of knee-high socks and loafers, you're instantly in a Miu Miu ad.
5. Mary Janes and ballerinas: retro shoes with new energy
Although often associated with girly dresses, Mary Jane shoes have undergone a modern makeover. Paired with flared pants or midi skirts, they create the perfect balance between classic femininity and urban elegance. Elastic-strap ballerinas add a touch of playfulness while maintaining elegance.
6. Oxford shirt with collar
A classic white or light blue button-down shirt is the foundation of a preppy look. Perfect for layering under sweaters or blazers, yet sturdy enough to stand on its own. Ironed, clean, and slightly oversized, it's pure "prep."
7. Jacket or blazer with gold buttons
Inspired by private school uniforms. Keep it navy, structured and slightly oversized. Gold buttons add a touch of prestige, while the blazer carries a story of academic rigor with a fashionable twist.
8. Lines: a detail that creates style
Striped cap-sleeved shirts or rugby shirts are back in fashion. Perfect for layering or wearing alone, they create a relaxed yet polished look. Paired with a pleated skirt or straight-leg jeans, they achieve a real preppy effect.
9. Briefcase-style bag
Structured, serious, even if you fill it with lipgloss and Starbucks. Ideally in brown, burgundy or dark blue, made of real leather or its good imitation.
10. Accessories: hair band, beads and socks
A headband (as Blair Waldorf as possible), a discreet pearl necklace, and white knee-high socks add that final touch of a sophisticated schoolgirl who knows Cicero but has TikTok.
Preppy Today: No Longer Just for the Privileged
Nowadays, preppy is no longer just the uniform of rich white men from the Ivy League. It's becoming a symbol of style confidence, a hybrid of conservative and rebellious, worn by girls, boys, fashion influencers, and even TikTok stars.
On the street, preppy is more daring, mixing street fashion, Y2K references and genderless silhouettes. And that's the beauty of it - you can be elitist if you want to, or just elegantly rebellious, with an Oxford shirt and punk energy.
