Jeans have always been a staple in any wardrobe, but did you know that they can play a starring role in your preppy style as well? The timeless look of preppy fashion can be easily achieved by incorporating denim into your outfits.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the essence of preppy jeans, perfect pairings, essential accessories, outfit inspirations, and denim brands to explore. Get ready to dive into the world of preppy jeans and elevate your wardrobe!
Short Summary
- Preppy jeans are timeless & stylish with simple cuts, solid colors and minimal fading.
- Classic denim styles like straight-leg or wide-leg plus white button downs, striped shirts & cozy knits complete the look.
- Explore classic American brands and niche preppy labels for unique wardrobe options!
The Essence of Preppy Jeans
The preppy style is an all-American look, often associated with upper-class students of Ivy League universities. It’s a classic and timeless aesthetic that can be easily integrated into your wardrobe by mixing jeans with other preppy pieces, creating a fashion statement.
But what defines jeans as preppy? What makes them stand out from other types of jeans? Simplicity, solid colors, and minimal fading are the key elements to look for when selecting preppy jeans. Classic cuts like skinny or straight for women, and classic washes such as white, black, and medium or dark blue are ideal choices. Make sure to avoid tears, holes, rips, and fray to maintain that preppy vibe.
7 Preppy jeans outfits for 2024
Before we discuss in detail how to achieve that preppy aesthetic by incorporating some denim, let’s first look at 7 different ways to style jeans for a preppy look.
Simple top combination
Let’s start off with a pretty basic combination of some straight-leg or skinny jeans and a simple top. Optimally, you should go for blue jeans and a white or black top for this look. Alternatively, you can also start implementing some colorful blends. This outfit works perfectly fine with sneakers and a little bracelet. Additionally, try to add another layer to it to spice things up.
This combination works with all kinds of tops from simple spaghetti strap top to some off-shoulder variations or other tops.
Combination with a Polo shirt
Now, let’s look at a more formal combination for your preppy jeans style. This one works for men and women because of it’s most versatile piece: The polo shirt. For this combination, you will again want to choose neutral colors in terms of jeans. For the polo shirt, you can opt for more colorful blends to achieve a classy but casual look. On formal occasions, try switching to a modest color like white, navy, or grey.
This outfit works great with straight-leg and skinny jeans. For men, a normal fit will be great. Not too loose! Pair this outfit with some loafers and sneakers and you are good to go!
Elegant Oxford shirts
This outfit combination is the upgrade to the polo shirt in terms of formality. In my opinion, this is the only real formal preppy jeans outfit on this list, maybe also in combination with a sweater or blazer. Here, you will want to go for white, blue, or black jeans and a neutral-colored Oxford shirt. Also, you may add that blazer as an additional layer.
In terms of shoes, everything from sneakers to loafers or boat shoes will work depending on the occasion. Also, pumps or flats can be a good call here. For accessories, a simple watch and necklace will do the deal as well as a belt.
Timeless sweater combination
It can provide an additional layer to the Oxford shirt combination or stand out as its own: A sweater is the perfect top for a preppy jeans outfit in the colder months. Here, everything from a cable knit sweater to a cardigan or turtleneck will work. This outfit can, depending on the styling, work for formal occasions as well as for casual ones.
Optimally, you will want to pair it with either some boots, elegant sneakers or loafers. For a business meeting, women may also wear some pumps or flats. In terms of accessories, a watch, necklace, and bracelet will work great.
For more inspiration on preppy shoes, check out my recent article here.
VSCO preppy jeans outfit
This very colorful look works best with some straight-leg or skinny jeans and offers plenty of freedom in terms of tops and colors. Only, try to incorporate 1 neutral-colored item to match the overall preppy aesthetic.
For more infos on the vsco preppy aesthetic, check out my article here.
Jean shorts look
Especially on those hot summer days, a pair of shorts can be a real game changer when it comes to preppy outfits. Whilst still maintaining a neat and tidy appearance, these shorts can provide the neccessary freedom for a casual preppy summer outfit. You may pair them with a linen shirt, a top, a polo shirts, or simple T-shirt for a preppy look. Additionally, some sndals or loafers will work great with such an outfit.
Timeless jeans skirt outfits
As a little bonus, we can also adapt the jeans skirt into a preppy outfit. This timeless skirt can be worn with any of the above featured tops. Besides casual combinations, try to pair it with a button-down and a blazer to achieve a look that’s suited well for the office.
To get to know more about preppy business outfits, check out my recent article here.
Best brands for preppy jeans
Now, let’s take a closer look on some brands to shop preppy jeans at.
Classic American Brands
Classic American brands like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Brooks Brothers have long been known for their great offerings. These brands are synonymous with timeless style and quality, making them a great choice for those looking to incorporate preppy jeans into their wardrobe.
Niche Preppy Labels
Niche preppy labels offer a unique perspective on preppy jeans, focusing on classic styles, natural fibers, and flat shoes. Some cool niche labels to consider include:
- Lily Pulitzer
- Draper James
- Tory Burch
- Vineyard Vines
- J.Crew
- johnnie-O
- Luca Faloni
- Form & Thread
- Percival
- A.P.C.
- Pendleton
- Levis
By exploring these niche preppy labels, you can discover denim styles that align with your preppy aesthetic and create a truly unique and stylish wardrobe.
Final thoughts on preppy jeans outfits
Incorporating preppy jeans into your wardrobe is a timeless and stylish way to showcase your preppy aesthetic. By exploring classic denim styles, perfect pairings, essential accessories, outfit inspirations, and denim brands, you can create a variety of preppy ensembles that are both versatile and fashionable. Embrace the allure of preppy jeans and elevate your wardrobe to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I look preppy in jeans?
Tuck a white or striped button down shirt into straight leg jeans for an effortlessly preppy look. Finish it off with an oversized shirt for an extra stylish touch!
What is considered preppy clothing?
Preppy clothing typically includes items such as navy blazers, seersucker suits, tweed suits, button-down shirts, polo shirts, rugby shirts, cable knit and tennis sweaters, chinos and Nantucket red pants, and classic accessories.
These items are often associated with a preppy lifestyle, which is characterized by a focus on education, tradition, and an appreciation for the outdoors. You may see preppy fashion often as a timeless style, with classic pieces that never go out of fashion. Preppy clothing is also known for its quality and attention to detail, with items often made from high-quality fabrics and materials.
Is the preppy look still in style?
It’s clear: preppy style is back and here to stay! Trends may come and go, but the classic cable knit sweater and popped collar will always remain in fashion.
What is classic preppy style?
Preppy style takes inspiration from the traditional east coast prep school uniform, combining chinos, button-ups, blazers, canvas belts, argyle sweaters, crewneck sweaters and loafers for a timeless look.
What are the key elements of preppy jeans?
Preppy jeans feature simplistic designs with solid colors and minimal fading, giving them a classic yet modern look.
They are a great choice for those who want to look stylish without being too flashy. They are also incredibly versatile, as they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.