Summers on the cape, plaid school uniforms, cashmere cardigans, and monograms on everything— all these images evoke that classic aesthetic of East Coast prep. While you may not be able to afford a beach house in Nantucket, you definitely can achieve a preppy style at home.
Although we’re seeing a huge resurgence of this style—both in fashion and interior design—preppy is a term that’s been around for decades, and its popularity never completely wanes. The word “preppy” is a shortening of preparatory: the kind of schools students attend before paving their road to the Ivy League, and therefore, many of the trend’s motifs trace back to that.
While the beginning of the trend might have some high society undertones, it’s become a form of elevated Americana that’s deeply ingrained in the culture.
“Preppy style is more than just a ‘look’—it’s an entire vibe,” says Cape Cod-based lifestyle expert Marc Sievers. “Think Ralph Lauren, The Kennedys, Cape Cod, Newport, lobster rolls, and sailing. It isn’t about what’s new and trendy, it is about layering classic and timeless silhouettes, patterns, colors, and even textures—layerism, really.”
If you want to put a little prep in your step, Sievers gave us some helpful hints on how to accurately achieve the look. From subtle accessories to the colors that convey this charming style, here’s how to turn your home into a space worthy of Manhattan’s elite (xoxo, Gossip Girl).
What Is the Preppy Aesthtic?
“Growing up in New England, the home of preppy style, there are certain hallmarks you to add into your closet,” Sievers says. “Vintage fisherman’s sweaters, anything ‘Nantucket Red,’ classic polos with sweaters loosely tied around your shoulders, khakis—or ‘car keys’ if you live in Boston—and anything coastal.
“Preppy style isn’t necessarily about everything being new with tags,” he continues. “Slightly worn and comfortable hand-me-downs that evoke ‘lived in for decades’—but still in fabulous condition are inherent to true preppy style.”
But as any devotee to the style knows, “preppy” isn’t just a trend—it’s a way of life that’s always timeless. Sievers compares it to the LBD (aka little black dress), except it can be cross over into fashion, food, and home.
How to Get the Preppy Look at Home, No Matter Your Style
Since prep is forever a classic style, you don’t have to worry about it fading out in a few months. A lived-in, old money look is part of the aesthetic, so you can focus on sustainability and savvy second-hand shopping—stray from big box stores.
“Instead, mix and match from estate sales, flea markets, and even your grandparents’ or parents’ basements,” Sievers says. “Layer simple madras pillows and denim throws over a sofa—bonus points if the sofa has some ‘wear’ to it—a collection of seashells on a silver tray, a cane-wrapped vase with white hydrangeas, rope napkin rings, and always a yacht ensign flag on your garden gate.”
Prep finds itself in the trend cycle year after year also because it offers a lot of flexibility in how to channel it. For example, you can tackle it through a more masculine or feminine lens, depending on your personality.
If your style leans more toward grandpa chic, take a cue from brands like Ralph Lauren and choose color palettes that feature deep burgundies, hunter greens, and navy blues. With this spin on preppy, you can lean into heritage hallmarks like equestrian styles and nautical themes to give your home a cohesive look.
For those who favor a more ladylike take on prep, incorporate pastels: Pinks and greens are perennially popular. If you go for this version, play with Lily Pulitzer-like floral prints and one of the season’s hottest fashion accessories: the bow.
And if you’re drawn to the aesthetic but not sure it resonates with your personality (maybe it’s a bit too sweet or old fashioned), put a moody spin on it. Think punk plaids in bright colors, and take inspiration from designers like Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, who mixed prep school styles with edgy elements like skulls and safety pins.