Prep style is classic, timeless, and never goes out of fashion. From tailored blazers and Oxford shirts to boat shoes and cable-knit sweaters, the preppy look is all about appearing polished and put-together.
This also means that quality is key in preppy style. It's the complete opposite of fast fashion. And most true fashion enthusiasts aren't afraid to spend a significant amount on a single garment.
Whether you're a fan of the classic preppy look or just want to add some preppy pieces to your wardrobe, there are plenty of preppy fashion brands to choose from. In this article, we'll share some of the top preppy fashion brands and why they are so popular among fashion lovers.
What is Preppy Style?
Preppy style is characterized by being classic, timeless, and often associated with traditional American style. Preppy fashion is known for its clean lines, simple silhouettes, and focus on quality materials.
Lifestyle: Preppy fashion is often linked to a certain lifestyle that values education, tradition, and refinement. This style is often considered conservative, but it has evolved over time to include more modern and trend-driven pieces.
Colors: Preppy fashion is typically associated with a specific color palette, including navy, white, and pastels, and often incorporates patterns like stripes, plaids, and polka dots.
Origins: Preppy fashion is a style that originated with students at Ivy League universities and colleges in the northeastern United States. While the style originated at Ivy League schools, it has since become more accessible to a wider audience. Today, preppy fashion is a popular choice for those who want to look polished, put-together, and classic, while also embracing modern trends and styles.
Classic Preppy Wardrobe Staples to Own:
Some classic preppy fashion items include:
Blazer: A blazer is a must-have for the preppy look. It's often paired with a collared shirt and khaki pants for a classic, sophisticated look.
Oxford Shirt: The Oxford shirt is a classic preppy staple that can be dressed up or down. It's typically tucked into pants or shorts and worn with a belt.
Polo Shirt: The polo shirt is another classic preppy item that can be dressed up or down. It's often paired with khaki pants or shorts.
Khaki Pants: Khaki pants are a preppy essential. They are often paired with a collared shirt and a belt.
Chinos: Chinos are similar to khakis but are usually made from a lighter fabric. They are a great choice for warmer weather.
Loafers: Loafers are classic preppy shoes. They are often worn without socks and can be dressed up or down.
Boat Shoes: Boat shoes are another classic preppy footwear choice. They are also typically worn without socks and are a great option for summer.
Nautical-Inspired Accessories: Preppy fashion often incorporates nautical-inspired accessories like belts, watches, and bracelets. These accessories often feature stripes or anchor motifs.
Of course, you can also incorporate other preppy items like beachwear, tennis attire, sundresses, and more. If you browse the brands below, you'll see even more options!
Preppy Brands Worth Collecting:
Here are my personal favorite preppy fashion brands covering various budgets. I've also listed the best item categories to buy from each store and the price range.
If you're on a budget, J. Crew Factory is by far the best high-quality preppy fashion brand.
All my personal wool coats, raincoats, and jackets are from J. Crew Factory, usually priced at $100 or less. I also love buying shirts and polo shirts (usually under $40) and basic sweaters from J. Crew Factory.
Price Range: I typically spend between $30-$100 per item, depending on what I buy. The quality is really good for the low price, especially compared to typical preppy brands.
When I want to add preppy clothes to my wardrobe, Cartolina Nantucket is my go-to. The brand favors classic New England style, effortlessly capturing the essence of timeless style while keeping my budget intact.
While I particularly love Cartolina Nantucket's summer dresses and shirts, they also have great resort wear when winter comes. I think this store is like a higher-end Lilly Pulitzer for classic preppy style.
Price Range: Usually around $100 per item, and each piece can be worn for a long time.
If you like preppy fashion, you know Vineyard Vines is one of the OGs. Start here when you want to put together a preppy outfit.
Whether you're looking for preppy dresses, button-down shirts, cozy pullovers, swimwear, fabric shorts, white pants, bags, or other items, Vineyard Vines has you covered. Investing in a few pieces you'll wear often is definitely worth it!
Price Range: Sometimes you can find items around $50, but you need to wait for sales. Most quality items are priced between $80 and $200.
I prefer buying spring and summer preppy style items from Tuckernut. If you're looking for a Lilly Pulitzer look that's more understated and a bit more classic, Tuckernut is definitely your preppy fashion brand.
I personally love their tops and patterned shirts, fabric shorts, shoes, and accessories. The sun hats with bows are especially cute.
Price Range: Expect to spend between $75 and $250 per item.
If you're looking for preppy luggage and/or bags, Mark and Graham is the preppy fashion brand for you.
These are the most classic preppy luggage items that can be used again and again!
I buy luggage, as well as totes and bags, from Mark and Graham. Their products can be monogrammed or used simply.
Price Range: Mark and Graham is surprisingly affordable. You can buy a large piece of luggage for around $200; totes are sometimes under $100.
Tommy Hilfiger is another classic brand that's more affordable.
You can buy the most classic Tommy items like sweaters, jackets, and button-down shirts, but you can also find some very cute seasonal pieces at this preppy fashion brand.
Price Range: Most items are over $100. However, Tommy has high sales volume throughout the year and is well-known.
Almost everyone has heard of Sperry. However, this preppy fashion brand sells more than just classic boat shoes.
I personally love my Sperry shoes! They are the perfect combination of style and comfort. The leather is soft and durable, and the cushioned insole provides support for my feet. Plus, they have non-slip soles, perfect for walking on wet surfaces. I wear them all the time, whether running errands or going out with friends. They are versatile and can be paired with jeans or nice khakis.
There's a reason Sperry shoes are a preppy essential. Secondly, Sperry also has a variety of super cute shoes for men and women, including canvas sneakers, various boat shoes, and sandals.
Price Range: Some cheaper shoes are only $50, while more expensive ones range from $100 to $200. However, the quality is truly incredible. Knockoffs just can't capture the charm of these shoes. My boyfriend has had a pair of Sperry boat shoes for over 3 years, and they still hold their shape perfectly!
I'm obsessed with KJP products! Their items are very seasonal, classic, and high quality.
I particularly love their women's dresses, chunky knit sweaters, and delicate gold and pearl jewelry.
Price Range: Compared to some other preppy brands, KJP is very affordable. Individual pieces range from $75 to $150. It's a great brand for buying a full preppy outfit.
No brand does it better than Lilly Pulitzer!
Every summer, I add at least one Lilly Pulitzer item to my wardrobe. I love wearing Lilly dresses to weddings, out to dinner, or even for a summer brunch by the sea.
While I really love everything from Lilly Pulitzer, I tend to buy dresses for formal and casual wear, floral shirts (they pair perfectly with white jeans), patterned swimsuits, and jumpsuits.
Price Range: Most items are priced between $100 and $250. Lilly Pulitzer is one of the best-selling preppy fashion brands, so be sure to check the clearance section.
Old Navy is a super affordable preppy brand for seasonal basics.
At Old Navy, I mainly buy women's preppy shirts, simple sweaters, basic jeans (especially white jeans), and linen/fabric shorts.
Price Range: Most items at Old Navy are under $30. The prices are incredible, but not every item fits perfectly. So it's best to check the size guide beforehand so you know what type of preppy items to buy.
Gap is an excellent mid-range brand offering affordable but