The preppy look originated in the early 1900s with collegiate and prep-school menswear (thus, the moniker).
Signature items included blazers, polos, chinos, oxford shirts, tennis sweaters, loafers.
Todays sporty, slightly rumpled preppy aesthetic is a bit more androgynous, sexy and playful.
Think moreDiane KeatoninAnnie Hallvs.
(In other words, skip the grosgrain headbands, cashmere twinsets and pearls.
Were not taking about the pink-and-green Lilly Pulitzer kind of preppy here.)
Or pair your fisherman sweater and croppedjeanswith a kitten heel.
One feminine detail goes a long way.
A textured knit adds visual interest to your look when worn with casual pants.
Push up the sleeves for extra panache.
A crisp button-down in a menswear stripe spells polish.
Pop the collar to up the preppy factor.
Today, it still hints of prestige and can add some fun color to your weekend neutrals.
Final word
Make no apologies for dressing like a prepster even if you arent.
Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition
Already a Member?Login
