When I used to think of "preppy style," what usually came to mind was Vineyard Vines polos, Vera Bradley printed bags, and stuffy uniforms from my local private school in the suburbs. While the common themes of preppy fashion are still relevant today, the style aesthetic has undergone a transformation to fit with today's priority fashion customer. I've never considered my style remotely close to preppy (I was all about the grunge-girl vibe in high school), but I've found myself tapping into the popular preppy trends that have been all over the fashion scene lately. Think exposed collars, cable knits, vests, and tailored pieces. Not only have I been looking into preppy trends, but many brands that champion the style have caught my eye recently.
While there are a number of classic brands like Ralph Lauren or Lacoste that have always been skilled in the "preppy" look, you can thank new brands like Recreational Habits and Aimé Leon Dore for taking the classic touches of the aesthetic and changing it fit the mind of the fashion set today. Keep scrolling to find 10 brands that will help you add a preppy update to your 2022 wardrobe.
1. Tory Sport
While a majority of the preppy pieces from Tory Sporty are geared toward Tennis, you don't have to play the sport to wear the pieces below.
2. Mango
Mango is the ultimate destination for elevated pieces that meet the balance between classic and trendy. You can find high-quality knits and separates at an under-$100 price point.
3. Rowing Blazers
You may recognize Rowing Blazers for the brand's collaborations that bring back Princess Diana's iconic collection of sweaters into production, but the offering is so much more than that.
4. Ralph Lauren
Does it get any more classic than Ralph Lauren? The brand is the perfect destination for timeless staples like trench coats, poplin tops, and cable knits.
5. Sporty Rich
One of the first brands I noticed to take a leap into the preppy trend and make it fit for the modern consumer was Sporty Rich.
6. H&M
If you're looking to channel the preppy aesthetic on a budget, H&M has you covered. I recently purchased a few collared sweaters and button-downs, and they did not dissapoint.
7. Reformation
8. Aritzia
Aritzia isn't a new brand by all means, but it has taken over social media in the past few years. While it's great for basics, its preppy and sporty items are worth your time as well. Look at its new pieces from Babaton and TNA to channel the vibe.
9. Recreational Habits
While the preppy aesthetic used to always be designed for the "exclusive elite," Recreational Habit's mission is to bring that world to a wider audience, regardless of their color or social standing.
10. Aimé Leon Dore
If you're in the know of anything fashion, you've heard the name Aimé Leon Dore recently. Whether it's the brands sought-after collaboration with New Balance or its coffee shop in NYC that almost always has a line, it's one to keep track of.
