The Preppy look has long been associated with clean cut, crisp tailoring and offers a nod to timeless tradition of days gone by, but what defines it? From origins in elite American universities to its current place on high streets and in contemporary menswear collections, the preppy aesthetic continues to evolve—balancing refinement with everyday versatility.
The History of Preppy Style
Preppy style found its roots in the Ivy League universities of early 20th-century America, where students dressed in a smart yet effortless way that reflected both privilege and trends at the time. Oxford Shirts, chinos, blazers and loafers were all characteristic of the movement as they moved easily from lecture halls to social clubs. Prominent figures within this movement include the late John F Kennedy, who brought much of his scholastic style into his presidency, expressing a more youthful and modern approach to dressing for the time. To read more about JFK’s unique aesthetic, read our previous post here.
Spring Summer 2025 and 2026 collections have marked a strong revival of preppy style, blending classic pieces with a modern, relaxed edge. Light layering, chinos, polos and collegiate-inspired outerwear define this refreshed aesthetic, maintaining its signature suave that makes it so revered. At Pritchards, this evolution is reflected in brands like Hackett, which combines British tailoring with sporty influences; Gant, known for clean, versatile American classics; and Fred Perry, which adds a sharper, subcultural twist.
Must-Haves to Capture the Look
Polo Shirts
Polo shirts are a go-to when emulating prep style- they’re easy to wear and offer a put-together look for almost any occasion. Their sporty roots and clean, structured design make them perfect for layering or wearing solo, offering a polished yet relaxed look that defines modern prep style. With availability in a range of fabrics such as pique cotton, jersey and wool, a Polo Shirt provides a clean method to effortlessly elevate everyday outfits.
At Pritchards, we offer a diverse collection of Polo Shirts from a variety of brands. For example, the iconic M3600 from Fred Perry gives the polo shirt a sharper, more distinctive edge, with classic twin tipping on the collar. While less traditional than block colours, the brand’s heritage and attention to detail keep it polished—making it a confident, stylish choice for those after a more individual take on preppy menswear.
Oxford Shirts and Button Downs
Oxford shirts and button-downs are staples of preppy menswear thanks to their crisp, tailored look and timeless appeal. Made popular in the mid-20th Century, they strike the perfect balance between polished and relaxed offering an easy option to dress up with a blazer or down with chinos. The soft yet durable fabric, often in classic colours like white, blue, or striped patterns, makes them a versatile choice for everyday wear. Their ability to layer effortlessly and maintain a refined appearance has firmed their place at the heart of preppy style, presenting a reliable foundation for any well-dressed, modern wardrobe.
Lightweight Blazers and Jackets
Often in menswear, outfits can be left appearing two-dimensional and somewhat lacklustre in structure and this is where a quality blazer or jacket can be effective in creating a well-rounded preppy ensemble. Ideal for layering, they work well across seasons and can elevate minimal outfits without appearing too formal. Whether it’s a tailored blazer or a smart Harrington jacket, these pieces offer versatility and a classic, refined finish. Brands such as Hackett, Paul Smith, and Sunspel are ideal for preppy dressing thanks to their focus on timeless design, with a smart-casual balance that captures the essence of modern, refined style.
Knitwear Layers
Knitwear layers are often overlooked when referring to preppy styling. Mainly used in the Winter and colder months, knitted pieces can provide an extra layer of warmth whilst also contributing to the texture and visual quality of an outfit. Even in warmer conditions, a lightweight, merino fabric can offer a lifeline for eveningwear and breezier climates.
Footwear
Choice of footwear is often pivotal in creating preppy outfits; there are certain ‘rules’ of commitment to dressing this way which will dictate how it comes off and sadly, your old running trainers will have to remain at home for this one. For a preppy outfit, shoes such as loafers, moccasins, and classic boat shoes offer a timeless, polished look that pairs well with chinos or tailored shorts. For a more modern aesthetic, white leather trainers can be opted for, as they bring a clean, modern edge, without being too formal.
How to Style the Preppy Look
Layer with Purpose
Layering is essential to the preppy aesthetic, as combining ageless pieces like Oxford shirts, knitwear, and blazers can create a refined yet approachable look. Begin with an Oxford shirt—a classic staple with a structured feel—then layer on a fine-gauge sweater, vest, or cardigan to add warmth and subtle contrast. Top it off with a well-fitted blazer in tweed, herringbone, or wool to add sophistication and texture. Stick to classic tones—navy, grey, camel—and keep silhouettes clean and tailored. Adding small details like a knit tie, loafers, or a belt enhances the preppy charm and contributes to a well-rounded ensemble. By layering thoughtfully, a man can build outfits that are smart, versatile, and effortlessly stylish, channelling the true spirit of Ivy League fashion with a modern touch.
Extra Details: Accessories
Accessories like belts, sunglasses, and watches play a key role in refining the preppy look, adding polish and unique personality without overpowering the outfit. A classic leather belt—typically in black or brown—helps to create a clean and structured appearance, especially when paired with chinos or tailored trousers. It ties the outfit together and subtly signals attention to detail.
Sunglasses add both style and function. Preppy fashion favours timeless styles like wayfarers or aviators in tortoiseshell or black. These frames lend a sophisticated, collegiate edge while also offering practical sun protection. Avoid overly flashy or modern designs—this look thrives on understated tradition.
A quality watch is another staple. Think minimal, elegant timepieces with leather straps or simple metal bracelets. These suggest maturity and purpose, rounding out the outfit with a touch of luxury.
Together, these accessories enhance the overall look by reinforcing the preppy style’s core values: classic taste, clean lines, and refined simplicity.
Colour Palettes
Soft, neutral colours are highly beneficial for anyone looking to implement preppy style because they offer a sense of elegance and effortless coordination. Tones such as beige, navy, cream, and light grey evoke a refined aesthetic that aligns perfectly with the polished, collegiate roots of preppy fashion. These tones are versatile and understated, making it easy to mix and match pieces while maintaining a cohesive look. Neutral colours also allow key elements of the preppy wardrobe—like tailored blazers, button-down shirts, and chinos—to stand out without appearing flashy. Overall, a soft, neutral palette reinforces the classic, put-together image that defines preppy style.
Brands We Recommend
Pritchards offers a great mix of brands that make it easy to achieve classic preppy style. Whether you’re after a smart shirt or a timeless knit, you’ll find quality pieces that feel polished but effortless.
Old School Classics
Hackett
Hackett is a quintessentially British brand that perfectly captures the essence of preppy style. Known for its refined tailoring and smart-casual staples, Hackett offers everything from crisp Oxford shirts to sophisticated blazers and knitwear, making it ideal for building a polished and versatile wardrobe. The brand blends traditional British elegance with a modern edge, making it a go-to for those who appreciate timeless fashion with a collegiate touch. For an elegant, yet minimal piece, we advise opting for the Hackett Optic White Garment Dyed Linen Shirt. Featuring a tailored fit, with a 100% linen composition, the Optic White Linen Shirt offers a relaxed and comfortable method to dressing preppy this summer.
Paul Smith
Paul Smith adds a playful twist to preppy dressing, combining classic silhouettes with unexpected colour accents and subtle patterns. While the brand is rooted in tailoring and heritage styles, it brings a creative flair that helps inject personality into a preppy look. A Paul Smith piece can elevate an outfit while keeping it sharp and sophisticated—perfect for those who want to stand out while staying true to a classic aesthetic. The Paul Smith Light Blue Short Sleeved Polo Shirt is a perfect companion for preppy styling as it blends minimalism with eye catching contrast, making it a favourite for the warmer months.
Fred Perry
Fred Perry brings a sportier, subculture influence to preppy fashion, inspired by British heritage tennis wear. Best known for its iconic twin tipped polo shirts and clean, minimalist designs, Fred Perry offers versatile pieces that easily slot into a preppy wardrobe. The brand’s focus on progressive designs, quality materials, and subtle branding makes it ideal for achieving a neat, casual look with a touch of retro charm. If you’re looking to delve into Fred Perry, the defining Black Twin Tipped M3600 Polo Shirt is an easy place to start. Featuring the brand’s infamous laurel wreath on the chest, the M3600 provides a less formal option for those looking to dress preppy.
New Kids on the Block
Gant
Gant is a brand closely associated with the origins of preppy style, making it a strong choice for anyone looking to dip their toe into this aesthetic. Founded in the U.S. with deep roots in Ivy League fashion, Gant played a key role in popularising staples such as the Oxford shirt, a fundamental of preppy dressing. To this day, the brand consistently delivers timeless pieces—like chinos, knitwear, and shirts—that combine smart tailoring with a relaxed, collegiate feel. Gant’s ability to blend American traditions with European refinement ensures a versatile wardrobe that captures the clean, classic, and effortlessly put-together look that defines preppy style.
Belstaff
While Belstaff is traditionally known for its rugged, motorcycle-inspired outerwear, it can still be of value to a preppy wardrobe thanks to its emphasis on high-quality materials, sophisticated silhouettes, and British heritage styling. Preppy fashion often incorporates classic, functional pieces and Belstaff’s tailored jackets and structured coats provide exactly that—adding a layer of sophistication and contrast to softer staples like knitwear, chinos, and button-down shirts. The brand’s defining designs, particularly in waxed and quilted jackets, compliment the balance between smart and casual that defines preppy style, making Belstaff a fitting choice for those looking to elevate their look with durable yet elegant outerwear.
Colorful Standard
Colorful Standard is a strong choice for those aiming to build a preppy wardrobe due to its focus on high-quality, minimalist essentials. The brand specializes in well-crafted basics like crewneck sweatshirts, Oxford Shirts, and T-shirts in a wide range of colors that can bring individuality to prep style’s traditional and understated aesthetic. While Colorful Standard leans contemporary, its classic fits and versatile colour palette make it easy to pair with classic preppy staples such as chinos and loafers. The result is a modern yet effortless look that embodies the heart of preppy fashion.
Wrapping Up
We believe that preppy style is a timeless and versatile approach to menswear that allows for a fusion of classic polish with modern flair. Clean, sharp silhouettes and an emphasis on smart-casual balance make it an easy addition for today’s wardrobe. By experimenting with colour, layering, and texture, men can create a personalised take on this iconic look. Whether for work or weekend wear, preppy fashion offers a refined yet individual method to dressing that suits a variety of occasions.
