HOW TO DO PREPPY THE RIGHT WAY

 

Dressing preppy is one of those things that are always in fashion, even if it’s not actually on trend. If you know what I mean, I feel we could go get a coffee some time. If not, keep reading. Think about it – navy sports blazers, white shirts, the odd ruffle and classic brogues and loafers – it suits almost everyone. Back to how to dress preppy right, these are the three things everyone needs and the three to avoid at all costs – 0r else you’ll look like the fan of the Dubai polo team that scored a place at LSE and frequents West End clubs every week. And before this starts to get way too judgemental… let’s begin:

1 . Keep it edgy

You’re going to look like you want to be in Brideshead Revisited if you don’t bring your own flavour to the preppy style. I found this incredible leather Nike x Parra varsity bomber in a ‘charity’ shop – except it had tags on and everything and it went for £100, nearly 5x less than it’s listed on eBay! I also scored these Gucci Chelsea boots for £180, which believe it or not was the full retail price. Preppy doesn’t always mean expensive, it usually involves good quality, timeless pieces.

Haute tip: Keep accessories simple and to a minimum. The preppy look is constantly associated with pearl stud earrings but it doesn’t need to be so boring. Here I’ve gone for a simple bow tie and left the entire look to speak for itself because layering is everything.

2. Colour blocking

Yup, it’s not just for the street style fashionistas. Go for a one-colour look with a contrast piece or trimming and there’s no going wrong.

Haute tip: Textures are key here, I went for lace, cable knit and tweed. A lot of the time, people think doing preppy means polo shirts and Oxfords (just, no) – if you can truly pull of this style, you’ll be unafraid to experiment and sometimes get it wrong. Just avoid bright colours or anything that looks like it would’ve been in the costume wardrobe of White Chicks.

3. Be inspired by old movies

So as long as you don’t have an A1 print of her in your bedroom, you can safely admit to loving Audrey Hepburn without being accused of being basic. Taking cues from that classic LBD and oversized glasses from Breakfast At Tiffany’s, a great evening look is a simple dress with some serious statement pieces because the party don’t start ’til you walk in .

Haute tip: Yes, I did die a little writing that last sentence but also, I’m hoping that in a year or two I might find it funny. My tip for a preppy evening look is to keep hair and makeup simple and elbow length gloves may be too bold for you but I’m also unafraid of spiders so, whatever.

First look:

Third look:

Zara dress

Ferragamo sunglasses

Jimmy Choo shoes

Prada gloves

Louis Vuitton bag