Girl Next Door / July 2011 / Wardrobe Essentials for a Classic Preppy Look

Jul 28, 201105:48 AMGirl Next Door

British fashionista Charlotte Crowley tells you what to wear—and what NOT to wear.

Wardrobe Essentials for a Classic Preppy Look

As much as we try to avoid the topic, the recession of the last few years has really affected how we view fashion and the pieces we've chosen to buy. A few seasons about, the catwalks were all about mournful dark colours, classic pieces and a rejection of throwaway fashion. Then fashion went the other way, with bright, ostentatious pieces, an injection of punk and the ideology that fashion should be an escape from reality, not a reflection. But for many people, these punky seasons were a little too much, a little unwearable. The kind of thing that looks great on 7 feet tall models and teenagers, but doesn't have the same effect on the modern woman. Enter the reinvented preppy trend. Many would argue that the preppy trend never really went away. The preppy trend of the 80s has been immortalized by John Hughes films such as The Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink, but the basic ideas are still classic, and popular today.

Traditionally, preppy style came from the dress of young people attending northeastern preparatory schools and has been known to be related with certain connotations of lifestyle and mannnerisms, but you don't have to spend the weekends playing tennis at your country house to rock the preppy trend.

The preppy uniform is nothing new. In fact, you'll probably find you have most of the items in your wardrobe already. The look is very casual, very laid back and very country club. It is incredibly wearable and simple to recreate and always looks timeless and classic. It is a great way to freshen up your look mid-season, and perfect for late-summer cooling tempteratures. Here are your key staples for a classic preppy look...

1. Polos, oxford shirts, shorts and khakis
These form the foundations of a perfectly preppy uniform. Polos can be worn in numerous different colours and are popular in blues, reds, yellows and pinks. Bright coloured shirts give the look a fun element, but you can keep it traditional in a uniform of red, white and blue. Shorts should be tailored and classic. For a modern twist, pair a polo shirt with well-cut jeans.

2. Layers- blazers, cardigans and trench coats
Perfectly constructed layering is a great way to get the preppy look. Try a buttoned cardigan over an oxford shirt or a creamy blazer over a pleated skirt. The look should be neat and jackets should be perfectly tailored.

3. Stripes and plaid
Pleated plaid skirts and plaid dresses are essential to a school-uniform inspired prep look. Bright, bold stripes are also a great choice for both men and women. Pair with equally bright shorts or khakis, or tone the look down by pairing with neutrals. Plaid skirts look effortless paired with a crisp white shirt and cardigan. For a modern twist, pair stripes with florals but keep the rest of the outfit clean and neutral.

4. Boat shoes and riding boots
Casual boat shoes and tennis-white plimsolls are perfect for Summer, and riding boots with tights are the perfect winter alternative. Ballet flats are a pretty, modern alternative and keep the look pretty and polished.

5. Expensive-looking accessories
These days, you can get pearls from any cheap clothing store or thrift store, but they add an affluent edge to the look. Head bands are also a popular choice. Keep hair and make-up polished but not over-done. Think shiny high ponytails and a pale pink lip for prep perfection.