I’ve never considered my style to be preppy—I have a penchant for neutral colors and haven’t worn a pleated skirt since my high school cheer squad. I’ve always admired preppy style from a distance, though, living vicariously through Gossip Girl school uniforms, but recently I’ve found myself saving countless Instagram outfit photos full of preppy elements. It seems like everywhere I look I’m seeing fashion influencers across the globe sporting the preppiest trends you can think of, but styling them in ways that feel current as ever.
From exposed collars to sweater vests to polo shirts, preppy elements can be found all over the fashion crowd in the coolest ways. The outfits I’ve found myself saving are those that pair preppy details with modern pieces, like chunky gold chains or loose jeans, to balance things out. Keep scrolling to see what I mean, as I’ve outlined the 5 preppy trends fashion people can’t get enough of right now.
Sweater vests have made a bold comeback in the past few months, going from virtually extinct to one of the biggest trends on Instagram. Fashion people tend to be gravitating towards oversize sweater vests, pairing them with mini skirts or jeans, or more fitted versions worn atop an oversize button down.
This color scheme is perfect for spring.
I love the oversize look of this one.
Go full prep with this print.
The fashion crowd has been all about the draped sweater for a while now, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. The beauty of it is the simplicity—throw a sweater over your shoulders with virtually any outfit and you look instantly more polished and directional.
This texture!
The easiest way to add a pop of color.
Talk about a color that goes with everything.
Once reserved for prep schools, the exposed collar is taking over the fashion world right now. You can find collars poking out of everything from collegiate sweatshirts to chunky cardigans to bold coats. It’s one of those trends that’s beyond easy to try out, and you most likely already have the pieces you need.
You can never have too many white button-downs.
This collar detail will look so pretty peaking out of a sweater.
Collar goals.
Once reserved for tennis pros, the pleated skirt is having a moment right now. The mini length is perfect for springtime, and I’m loving the look of it paired with something more oversize on top for a nice balance.
So chic.
You’ll wear this far beyond spring.
A black version feels like the easiest way to dip your toe in the pleated skirt trend.
A polo shirt makes any outfit feel polished, whether it’s jeans, trousers, or even sweats (hello, quarantine). This spring the fashion crowd is opting for short sleeve versions in brighter colors, and I can honestly say I’ll be doing the same.
