Preppy Fashion
Sporty, varsity styles are taking over the runways and the streets. Prudence Wade finds out how to get the look.
Few style icons are as enduring as celebs such as Reese Witherspoon or Julia Roberts, whose off-duty fashion was all about elegant preppiness.
It’s the perfect look for a spring refresh – which is probably why these stylish celebrities pop up on so many mood boards during this time of year – when we start digging out our shirts and letterman jackets to get in on the varsity trend.
Preppy trends have been around for a while – traditionally, they’re seen as quite elitist, as many of the trends originated in exclusive schools and colleges in America. However, varsity fashion has had a 2022 update – it’s now much more inclusive, proving it’s for all body types, gender identities and races.
Whether you’ve already got preppy pieces in your closet and want to know how to wear them, or are looking to invest in the classics – these are the best ways to get the sporty, varsity look this season…
Statement collars
Collars are a big part of the preppy trend, but they definitely don’t have to be stuffy. Instead, you can get the collared look with rainbow colours – think pale pinks or lavenders – or combine with another big varsity trend: knitwear.
Collared styles are incredibly versatile – they can be dressed up or down, and either be hidden underneath jumpers with just the collar on show, or worn as the main event.
1 Oliver Bonas Floral Collar Button Ivory Knitted Cardigan €66, visit oliverbonas.com
2 & Other Stories Collared Puff Sleeve Blouse €59, visit stories.com
Letterman jackets
The pinnacle of preppiness, a varsity jacket is a classic addition to any wardrobe. It’s the perfect weight for spring, ready to be slung on when warm days turn into cooler nights.
Once the hallmark of American youth, letterman jackets now have a more widespread appeal. They’re best worn to top off a full preppy outfit of fashion classics – light-washed jeans with a shirt tucked in, and comfortable trainers or brogues. Our advice is to size up in whatever jacket you buy, to really give off a relaxed vibe.
Like many aspects of the preppy look, varsity jackets are unisex and can be worn by anyone. Recently A$AP Rocky attended a Fenty Beauty event wearing a purple Louis Vuitton letterman jacket and distressed jeans.
3 PrettyLittleThing Blue Faux Leather Raglan Sleeve Cropped Varsity Bomber Jacket €68, visit prettylittlething.ie
4 New Look Off White Stripe Varsity Bomber Jacket €33.99, visit newlook.com
Sporty jumpers
Princess Diana’s gym looks have become the stuff of fashion legend, with her bike shorts and oversized jumpers constantly copied.
Slogans and logos are key to nailing preppy jumpers – anything with a vaguely collegiate air (regardless of whether you actually went to Harvard or not). Take a leaf out of Diana’s book and pair with miniature bike shorts, long socks and trainers, or dress up with straight-cut jeans and a crisp shirt peeping out from underneath.
5 George Orange Kindness Slogan Print Sweatshirt €20, visit global.direct.asda.com
6 Cos Relaxed Fit Terry Sweatshirt €49, visit cosstores.com
Pleated skirts
Gear up for Wimbledon with Instagram’s warm weather obsession: pleated skirts. These are best worn in whites and neutral tones, and don’t worry – they’re not just for the tennis court.
Kicky pleated skirts bring a bit of luxe athleisure to any outfit. Pair with a shirt or knitted jumper tucked in, and the obligatory long white socks to top off the look.
The runways have proved ultra miniskirts are well and truly back – while you don’t have to wear a dangerously short hemline if you don’t want to, tennis-inspired skirts are a great way to get in on the trend.
7 French Connection Blue Ella Pleated Chiffon Skirt €95, visit next.ie
8 Karen Millen Buckle Detail Pleated Mini Skirt in Cream €165, visit karenmillen.com
9 Premium Pleat Front Mini Skirt €80, visit oasisfashion.com
Natty knitwear
Grandpa fashion is having a moment, bringing with it a new obsession with knitted vests. The louder and ‘uglier’ the patterns on these, the better – it all adds to the fun of it.
Wear with a plain shirt or polo neck underneath, to really let your statement vest shine.
10 Zara Check Crochet Top €25.99, visit zara.com
11 New Look Pink Crochet Sleeveless Vest €49.99, visit newlook.com
12 H&M Rib-Knit Sweater Vest €19.99, visit hm.com
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