The sporty preppy style is having a moment, combining the timeless elegance of classic preppy fashion with the relaxed vibe of athletic wear. This versatile trend offers endless outfit possibilities, perfect for those who love to mix and match their wardrobe staples.
In the realm of sporty preppy style, the key is blending athletic wear with traditional preppy elements, resulting in distinctive outfits. This fusion often entails pairing items like a polo or rugby shirt with chino pants. Another quintessential sporty preppy ensemble might involve combining a tennis skirt with a striped shirt.
Ready to master the sporty preppy look in 2023? Let’s dive into the essentials, outfit inspiration, and top brands to help you create your sporty preppy outfits.
Defining Sporty Preppy Style
Sporty preppy style is the perfect blend of classic preppy elements and athletic influences, resulting in a casual yet refined look that is both timeless and on-trend. This combination of athletic and classic preppy clothes also results in mostly casual outfits that are optimally suited for being in school, university, or attending sports.
With timeless and sophisticated but also functional pieces, the sporty preppy style offers a variety of ways to mix and match and create unique outfits. Essential components of this classic style include:
- Heavyweight cotton rugby shirts
- Sweater vests
- Sweaters
- Loafers
- Sneakers
- Polo shirts
- Oxford shirts
- Tennis skirts
- Blazers
- Peter Pan collars
- Chinos
- Shorts
Outerwear also plays a significant role in the preppy wardrobe. With quilted jackets, varsity jackets, and wax jackets, three staples are mentioned in the official preppy handbook.
Athletic vs classic preppy Influences
The sporty preppy style draws inspiration from various sports such as tennis, golf, and rowing. They add a relaxed and active vibe to traditional preppy looks. Also, you will find the sporty preppy outfits on those occasions more often. Bringing staples like varsity jackets, tennis skirts, sneakers, and rugby shirts to the table, the sports side of this style has a pretty huge impact on its overall appearance.
To get to know more about preppy sports and activities, check out my recent article here.
While sporty preppy style incorporates athletic influences, it maintains key elements of classic preppy fashion such as clean lines, tailored fits, and timeless patterns. Polo shirts, blazers, and oxford shirts, for instance, are iconic preppy staples that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
These elements of the classic preppy style often add a touch of sophistication and timelessness to the otherwise more playful and trendy aesthetic of the sporty preppy style.
To get to know more about the classic preppy style, check out my recent article here.
3 Sporty Preppy Outfits for a timeless style
With all those inspirations on which clothes to combine to get the optimal sporty preppy style, let’s now take a look at some actual outfits matching this aesthetic.
Rugby shirt combination
A timeless combination of a rugby shirt with some chinos or shorts is a timeless and versatile look for men and women. Often worn as a cover-up, the rugby shirt also makes up a pretty fashionable appearance and suits the sporty preppy style perfectly.
Layered Oxford Shirt
The combination of an Oxford shirt layered with a timeless cable knit or V-Neck sweater makes up a classic preppy outfit. By adding some chino shorts or a tennis skirt, this outfit quickly transforms into a sporty preppy blend that looks just stunning.
Vintage polo combination
A combination of a classic polo shirt or blouse with some chino shorts or a tennis skirt will look great on any man or woman. By creating a blend of those classic and sporty garments, this outfit not only suits casual and sporty occasions but can also make up a great formal outfit.
How to accessorize Sporty Preppy Outfits for men and women
Accessories can make or break an outfit, and the sporty preppy style is no exception. By choosing the right bags, hats, and jewelry, you can elevate your sporty preppy outfits and create a polished and cohesive look that is uniquely your own.
Bags and Backpacks
Bags and backpacks are not only functional but also add a stylish touch to sporty preppy outfits. When selecting a bag or backpack, consider the occasion, your outfit, and the type of bag that will best complement your ensemble. For a casual look, opt for a canvas tote bag or a leather messenger bag, while a structured leather bag or a sleek backpack would be suitable for a more formal occasion.
For a full-on guide on which backpack to pick to represent the preppy aesthetic perfectly, check out my article about the best preppy backpacks.
Hats and Headbands
Hats and headbands are perfect accessories for adding a sporty touch to preppy outfits, especially for outdoor activities or casual outings. Some great options to incorporate into your sporty preppy wardrobe are:
- Baseball caps
- Beanies
- Fedoras
- Visors
- Headbands
Jewelry and Watches
Understated jewelry and watches can complete sporty preppy outfits while maintaining a polished appearance. When selecting jewelry and watches, consider your overall outfit and choose pieces that complement rather than overpower your ensemble. Opt for classic and timeless designs, such as pearl earrings or a leather-strapped watch, to ensure your accessories are in line with the sporty preppy aesthetic.
To get a better understanding of the most important preppy accessories, check out my article here.
Brands and Retailers for Sporty Preppy Clothes
Discover popular brands and retailers offering stylish and high-quality sporty preppy clothing options to complete your wardrobe. Some options include:
- Ralph Lauren
- Tommy Hilfiger
- Thom Browne
- Gucci
- Prada
- Paul Smith
- Stella McCartney
These designers are renowned for their preppy styles and also offer sporty preppy style clothing-inspired pieces, catering to a variety of style personality preferences. Investing in fashionable and well-crafted sporty preppy clothes from reputable brands will guarantee a timeless and stylish wardrobe that remains relevant for years.
Final thoughts on the sporty preppy style
Sporty preppy style is the perfect blend of classic elegance and athletic influences, offering a versatile and stylish wardrobe that adapts seamlessly to any season and occasion.
By focusing on essential clothing items, a cohesive color palette, and carefully selected accessories, you’ll create a sporty preppy capsule wardrobe that is both fashionable and functional. Embrace the sporty preppy trend in 2024, and showcase your unique style with confidence and flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a preppy sport?
Preppy sport refers to active pursuits such as tennis, sailing and golf which are still popular today among those who embrace the preppy style.
Is preppy still in style 2023?
The 2023 preppy style is given an update with bold colors and unexpected accessories. Think oversized blazers, crewneck pullovers and varsity sweatshirts combined with plaid skirts, combat boots, and headbands. This look is perfect for the modern fashionista who wants to stand out from the crowd. With the right pieces, you can create a look that is both classic and modern
What are the preppy styles?
The preppy style is often associated with classic and natural styles. It features cozy knits, checks and stripes, flat shoes, leather and wool materials, Brooks Brothers button-downs, knit sweaters, loafers, tweed blazers, boat shoes, argyle sweater vests, navy blazers, seersucker, polo shirts, rugby shirts, cable knit sweaters, chinos and Nantucket red pants, and classic accessories like repp stripes.
How do you dress sporty but classy?
For a sporty yet chic look, add a black blazer and trousers to a white tee and white athletic shoes. A structured leather backpack or varsity-style jacket with jeans, a T-shirt and sneakers can also make a stylish statement. For added drama, finish the ensemble with a cap, gym bag and red lip.
What is preppy casual?
Preppy casual dressing encompasses classic items such as navy blazers, seersucker suits, button-down shirts, polo shirts, rugby shirts, sweaters, chinos and Nantucket red pants, and classic accessories with repp stripes. These items are timeless and can be worn for any occasion, from a casual day out to a formal event. They are also versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Preppy casual dressing is all about looking polished and put together without being overly formal.
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