How to Dress in a Preppy Aesthetic for Men ??
Whether you love fashion or are just looking for a new aesthetic, preppy style is the perfect combination of elegance, comfort and timelessness.
Coming from the Ivy League and prestigious prep schools of the United States East Coast, preppy fashion was once a uniform for young men of privilege making ready to pursue top-level careers.
But, throughout the years, It became far bigger than that to become a more versatile and constantly accepted look yearly giving you a timeless appeal for anyone if done properly.
Preppy fashion is polished but relaxed, walking the line between confidence and comfortable menswear.
Featuring polished shirts, well-fitted pants and thoughtful accessories, this style is for those who want a neat appearance without too much effort.
In this guide, you will find out all you need to know before adding a preppy touch to your wardrobe.
I will go over every detail, from staple pieces to grooming so you can nail the preppy aesthetic with ease.
Therefore be it casual, office going, or a party you will find preppy attire for all.
Now, let us get right into it and learn to make a preppy wardrobe for yourself effortlessly!
Table of Contents
Essential Pieces of Preppy Style
Straight Lines and Custom Fits
The whole appeal of preppy clothing is that these are items that, even if casual, tend to be well-fitted and structured enough to create an air of polish around you.
Preppy fits land somewhere between too tight and too loose, following the lines of your body without restricting movement.
This focus on sharp lines and tailoring is what allows preppy aesthetic to be tasteful, most stylish items that appear to have been carefully chosen.
With just the right-fit chinos, and perfectly shaped button-down shirts, preppy clothing is all about looking clean-cut, polished and surprisingly easy.
Classic Patterns
To enjoy patterns which are a signature aspect of preppy style, and give visual appeal without doing too much.
Patterns such as plaids, stripes, checks get an ever-so-gentle dose of preppy in aesthetic wardrobes – breaking up basics but not being too overbearing.
They usually have old-fashioned prints and play it simple, adding a touch of what seems to be eternal into the outfit.
For instance, a plaid shirt, striped sweater or checkered blazer can make your outfit sophisticated while also immediately adding size to your look.
So just stick to classic feeling silhouettes and comfortable, Go for subtle not-too-bold designs.
Pastel and soft colors
Next comes the unique pastel colors, which tend to be very easily versatile – preppy.
We’re talking navy, beige, gray, and whites with a few pastels (think pale pink, mint green, light blue and lavender).
These colors not only have an approachable yet calming effect; but also blend in with other classic shades so you can easily mix and match.
These colors create a relaxed yet elegant look, be it a pastel polo shirt or a navy blazer.
Wardrobe Essentials
Few staples should almost be considered the foundation of preppy style.
They combine the simple cuts, traditional prints, understated colors and premium materials that characterize the style.
Classic Shirts
Classic Oxford button-down
The Oxford button down cloth is as preppy as it gets.
A cotton fabric is a thicker, more durable cotton that sits somewhere between casual and crisp.
Stick with colors like white, light blue and pastels, these work easily with most other preppy garments such as chinos and blazers.
Slightly tailored around the chest and waist but comfortable all over, with just a bit of tuck at the waist.
Polos
Polos are an absolute classic staple of preppy fashion that will never go out of style — and you can dress them up or down.
They are perfect for when the temps rise, pair well with chinos (and shorts) and even under a blazer.
Being conservative, navy is preferable while white can be complemented with pastel tints: there should not be loud patterns, maybe stripes.
Casual Shirts
Lightweight button up shirts made from plaid or striped fabric are also more appropriate for other relaxed versions of preppy style aesthetic.
Sneakers should best be worn with chinos or shorts in order to create a smart casual look.
While selecting patterns avoid those looks which are loud and flashy but select exclusive patterns which are subtle yet the main focus.
Polos & Sweaters
Polos and sweaters are both essentials in a preppy wardrobe and using both is classic.
Polos
Polos are the heart of preppy apparel because there are slimming possibilities with these clothes.
It can be worn separately with chinos or tailored shorts for a smarter than smart casual appearance.
They also apply well beneath sweaters or blazers for that little extra of formality.
Ensure you select polos in standard colors such as navy blue, black or gray depending on the nature of the occasion.
Use light shades of colors if any, and ensure they fit you in a well-fitted fashion but should not be too tight.
Sweaters
Sweaters create warmth and a proper trendy look while keeping up a neat style.
Wool or cashmere is perfect; however, you can also wear crew neck sweaters or cardigans.
When wearing a polo or an Oxford shirt below the sweater, pick out different colors that will relate well but not be too similar in tone (a dark colored sweater over a lighter colored polo).
Pants & Shorts
The right pants and shorts are necessary for the preppy outfit because this style calls for a structured, clean aesthetic.
Chinos
Chinos might be the most adaptable preppy clothing piece…
Chinos are formal casual wear that offers a loose but not baggy look to those who prefer trousers to jeans.
These may include khaki, navy blue and beige but you can also try such other colors as pastels or low vibrations of earthy color.
Chinos can be worn with polos, buttoned shirts or knitted wear and completed with loafers or boat shoes to complete the preppy look.
Khakis
Second to chinos, khakis are another preppy wardrobe staple that tends to blur the line between the two styles.
These provide a little more definition and look best when worn on the slightly looser appropriate size.
Khakis are very flexible kinds of pants that are suitable to be worn with everything ranging from shirts up to blazers, making your outfits timeless.
Tailored Shorts
Preppy shorts are always knee-length or slightly above, giving him a neater, tider, more polished look.
Buy the shorts in neutral colors; black, navy, white, or light blue colors.
Tight shorts like plaid or striped shorts can also have some personalization in the particular outfit.
Team them with polos or casual button-downs for a summer style look as shown above.
Jackets & Blazers
The jacket and blazer pieces are important for this more formal preppy look.
They make an outfit sophisticated and add definition to the whole attire.
Blazers
One can not discuss preppy style and not mention a navy blazer.
Choose a slim cut for ease of movement but tight at waist and thigh, with tapered pants coming down to blazers with padded shoulders.
The color navy is particularly useful as it complements chinos, both blue and beige trousers, and tailored shorts.
Classic clean tailored single-breasted blazers with brass buttons are about as preppy as it gets.
Sport Jackets
Adding a sports jacket of tweed gives you the traditional classic and smart appearance.
These jackets are just great if worn with neutral chinos or trousers and are perfect for the cooler weather.
Preppy Accessories
I finally conclude that accessories are those final pieces that complete the whole preppy look.
That’s why jewelry is so important – just one or two pieces can instantly spice up any plain outfit and make it look more stylish and individual.
Ties & Bow Ties
Not only that, ties and bowties complete the formal look of a preppy clothing and set an individual’s personality whether formal or semi-formal occasions.
Slim Ties
Game ties are lean either solid colors or small patterns, both in check.
Stick to darker neutrals such as navy, burgundy, or forest green and always remember that absolute classics of the patterned wardrobe are stripes, polka dots and tiny checks.
A slim tie worn with a blazer and button down shirt is sharp and preppy and versatile enough for both the workplace as well as the formal occasion.
Bowties
Bowties are a very useful formal fashion accessory that adds a little bit of classic vintage preppy to many clothing outfits.
Its perfect pairing is button-down shirts and blazers since they introduce a wiser level of fun.
In choosing a bowtie, ensure that it is made of satin, polyester, silk or cotton and depends on the feeling of the outfit.
Belts
Belts are practical items of the footwear.
They serve the needs of the clothing as well as contribute to the general look of the footwear while putting an enchanting feel on the entire outlook.
Leather Belts
A high-quality leather belt is a flexible piece of preppy clothing.
Plain colors of brown and black are versatile to match a chino, khaki, and even jeans ensemble for a formal look.
Avoid belts with large or uniquely shaped buckles, as such a detail has to be more elegant.
Woven Belts
They’re great for any wardrobe type or occasions when smart/ casual dressing is appropriate and particularly during the summer.
They come in leather or fabric materials and through colors such as navy, beige or multi weaves, they enhance plain outfits.
Watches
A classic watch is a must have accessory in the preppy wardrobe and gives a sophisticated and grown-up look to guys.
Leather-Strap Watches
Leather strap watches are recommended for preppy because they give the wrist a classy look without being obvious.
Brown or black leather straps are comfortable and appropriate for almost any occasion and add professionalism to the piece.
NATO Straps
If you’re going for more everyday, but still want a sporty appeal to the preppy aesthetic, NATO strap watches are a good choice.
Derived from military aesthetics, these straps give a military-like experience and come in different shades of colors and patterns (navy, green, and red).
Shoes
One of the most important things in preppy style is footwear.
“The right pair of shoes completes the look and adds a certain element of class to your outfit.”
Loafers
Men’s preppy loafers are especially famous for their simplicity and versatility, they can be worn at both formal and casual settings.
Try to find simple shades such as brown, black or burgundy.
Traditional or penny or tassel loafers are ideal for wear with chinos, shorts or business formal trousers.
Boat Shoes
As with any nautical clothing, boat shoes originated with sailors, and have become a staple of preppy fashion.
They’re practical yet sophisticated, most often leather or canvas, in navy blue, tan or gray.
I recommend these’ best for summer, can be paired with shorts, chinos or even jeans.
White Sneakers
Plain white shoes are a new trendy symbol in preppy fashion.
They give a relaxed touch without making it look too uninspiring while ensuring innocence is well embraced.
For a smarter look, durable leather or canvas sneakers with small logos should be the staple of the wardrobe since they can easily be worn with shorts, jeans, chinos, slacks and even dress shirts.
Preppy Outfits
Casual Looks
Preppy fashion is casual but still manages to keep one looking smartly dressed & well groomed
It is one of the perfect casual wear clothing styles consistent for wearing during weekend, brunch or other relaxed occasions.
Outfit
The first layer should be your beloved polo or any casual form of a buttoned shirt in a very pastel or neutral color.
Wear it with chinos or tailored shorts in color shades of navy, khaki or beige.
Shoes
Casual classic outfit is excellent, perfect for wearing boat shoes or loafers.
Accessories
Tuck in a brown leather belt, a plain black leather strap watch and lastly, if you were going to be most of the time outside, some types of rimless glasses like the aviator or wayfarer eyeglasses.
For cooler weather one needs to layer it up with a light cardigan or casual sweater to make it through the day.
Smart-Casual
Smart-casual preppy is suitable for formal occasions which are suitable for a nice dinner, for a date or for an informal official event.
It’s comfortable but has a hint of classy feel to it.
Outfit
An Oxford shirt over a V-neck or round neck sweater is also an excellent blend of style and class.
You could also not use the sweater in warmer weather, if there was any.
The above combination is best suitable if worn with chino or other slim-fit trousers in neutral colors.
Shoes
A pair of loafers is just right for this look, but if you prefer more of a structured shoe with detail then go for brogues.
Accessories
Avoid any body jewelry as well as any necklace and try to just use a leather strap and a small wrist watch instead.
Business Casual
Preppy style is perfectly fine converted to business outfits, never losing that professional demeanor as well as still retaining that polished preppy look.
Outfit
Start with a plain dress shirt or Oxford shirt with crisp tailoring covered across the upper body.
Introduce a structured blazer on top in a non distracting color such as navy blue or gray for work.
Coordinate it with chinos or other matching pants: wear khaki with a navy blazer on.
Shoes
loafers or brogues are perfect for such clothes, or working environment shoes per se.
Leather in browns or burgundy should, therefore, be used since it brings the sophisticated look that goes well with the preppy style.
Accessories
It should be slim and looks professional when worn for meetings or presentations.
Timepieces should be simple, wear a leather strap watch and a belt that matches your shoes.
Formal Preppy Outfits
Preppy fashion adds a more formal vibe in the same area as more structured silhouettes, higher-quality fabrics, and elegant accessories.
Outfit
Begin with a well-fitted structured blazer, which could be in navy blue, charcoal or even with a touch of the retro fabric – if not a full tweed jacket then at least a blazer in that fabric.
In this way, try it on over a dress shirt in stark white or a light, soft color and accessorize with a necktie or bow tie. Select the trousers of your chosen color to complete the outfit.
Shoes
Designer oxford shoes or brogues are compulsory at this place.
Formality and polish are created by those black or dark brown leather shoes.
Accessories
Perhaps invest in a skinny leather belt in the color of your shoes and possibly a pocket square of a more subtle pattern or even color.
A dress watch and simple cufflinks can also do wonders to the outfit.
Grooming Tips
This clothing style is all about being neat to the teeth, or preppy, and this is not just when it comes to dressing.
Hairstyles
Preppy hairstyles quietly reflect preppy aesthetic; preppy hairstyles are classy, tidy, and sculpted.
Side-Part
The side part, a sharp with a cleaned line is better defined as a typical preppy hairstyle.
Still, it is slippery, does not require frequent washing out and would be appropriate for most hair types.
Comb it back neatly and for the more polished look, use a little pomade or gel for that purpose.
Classic Fade
Layering is another subtlety in making hair look fresher and modern while remaining neat and clean at the same time.
A classic fade is a great example of that.
It is also very easy to wear and accessorize and also goes well with any type of face shape.
Crew Cut
A crew cut guarantees a plain, but practical look, which is perfect for backing preppy style.
It’s short and neat, exactly the style that every low-maintenance man requires while desiring the best look at the office.
Beard Care
Preppy styles can be created with clean-shaven, well-trimmed, stylish, and well-groomed facial hair.
Keep it Neat
If you have a beard, make sure to cut it, even if you don’t have a mustache, keep it quite short.
When going for the preppy look, the best kind of beard should be neat and trimmed to the face.
Clean Shave or Light Stubble
A day or two of beard or a shadowy appearance is most the appropriate beard for guys.
Both give you the look of a renewed image without taking away from the clothes you wear.
Skincare Routine
First, let it be mentioned that skin is the largest organ of our body and skin care is vital for a clear complexion….
Use a mild face wash to wash your face and thus remove any dirt on the face leaving your skin clean & clear.
Finding the suitable moisturizer that can be applied on your face every morning is important for skin health.
Choose one that has an SPF for UV defense because it’s crucial to maintaining fresh, glowing skin.
Fragrance Choices
Wearing perfume completes your outfit and creates individual style & freshness.
Classic Fragrances
This scent takes well to fresh fragrances with underlying tones of classic or very light wood.
Consider citrusy notes like bergamot, woody scents such as cedarwood, or anything that might remind one of the ocean’s airiness – or nothing in particular, but trendy, classic chic.
Light and Fresh for Daytime
Sillage fragrances for daily use are light with citrus aqua and they just feel right and do not overpower.
They also relate well with the energetic attitudes of preppy fashion.
Warm and Woody for Evening
For business dinners or other occasions where the evening requires more sophisticated and closed air use perfumes such as sandal or amber, musk.
These give it a more mature male feel & smells good all day long without getting fussy.
Therefore, if you follow the above tips on grooming, your dressing code will be well begun with a clean, neat appearance.
Conclusion
Preppy style explores the relation between personality, class, and order.
Originally based on the American clothing tradition of preppy clothing, this style can now be worn for an ordinary weekend or a formal event.
Using ‘clean lines’, ‘quality fabric’ and considering ‘accessories’, “you’d be surprised how you can look sharp and comfortable at the same time.”
Thus, when you gel your hair into a neat side part for the next time or decide the perfect endings to your style or a great pair of shoes or choose a simple watch from a collection for your style, don’t forget, confidence is the best accessory.
Preppy style is about dressing nice and looking friendly, walking with the air of comfort and confidence.
Thus people should step into the world of preppy fashion and take advantage of all the benefits that this kind of dress code offers.
Purchasing quality and the essentials will help you get ahead of the trend and discover a style that suits you.
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