Prep: Living the Lifestyle, Knowing the History, Wearing The Fashions

Hey Preps!

Today, I want to go in depth on a subject in which I have apparent passion for; being a prep.  The typical definition of "preppy" is one who attended a fancy private prep school prior to college.  Perhaps we may throw in the thought that the come from "old money".  When looking at the term from a fashion standpoint, it defines a person who dresses classically conservatively. This person has fewer, yet more expensive pieces in their wardrobe, usually of neutral colors that can be worn in many different ways.  However, the coined term "preppy" is used to describe this type of person for lack of better vocabulary.

The idea of dressing preppy, is to look as if you are well-off.  However, not dressing in a gaudy way that showcases wealth.  The styles considered preppy are timeless.  For example, the clothes you wore in college should be the same clothes you wear at age 60 (I have all my mummy's old Polo cable sweaters...and have had them since high school).

So with "preppiness" suddenly increasing in popularity within the realms of the fashion world, I found it important to explain the key components for each gender on what it is like to truly be a "prep".

A quote from author of True Prep, Lisa Birnbach (on being a prep) states: "It's about ease and confidence.  It's about fitting in when you do and even when you don't.  It's about your endless supply of clothes that always look the same, no matter what the era or fashion dictates.  It's about being the fourth for tennis or for bridge, or somehow come to the rescue of a social situation.  Because you can.  Because your parents taught you by example."  


So let's begin shall we?  Ladies first of course.

As a young preppy lady, one is always put together.  Her hair is always in place combined with natural looking make-up.  She is polite (does not swear) to everyone she meets.  She may dislike a person, but will never show it.  She is considerate of others, and truly listens to what they have to say.  She smiles often, and is quite a socialite.  She is always gracious, and never speaks too much or too highly of herself.  Perhaps she played sports such as field hockey and lacrosse growing up, or went to a private prep school.  Maybe she was raised in the South where being a lady is a perfected art.  Either way, people like her because of her humility, classic styles that make her approachable, and her positive attitude and appearance.

Here are examples of what her wardrobe should look like:

And now the preppy gentlemen...they are bold, sociable, and cunning.  Tend to be the life of the party, and have a wide-ranged social network.  They are usually very well educated, and great businessmen.  Ladies will flock to them because of their polite qualities that allow them to know "how to treat a lady" which results in blindsiding most because of their initial charm.  Tending to wear bold colors such as Nantucket Reds, and in general can get away with a flashier style than the average preppy lady. Brought up in good families, they are a reflection of so.  Lacrosse, rugby, tennis, and golf tend to be the sports of choice.  These men are well-rounded and well-dressed.  

Here are examples of the preppy gentleman's wardrobe:

(all photo credits go to Unabashedly Prep)

Being preppy, isn't just about wardrobe, but about the lifestyle you live.  It withstands all trends, and keeps to it's traditions....which are more than likely traditions that are quite worthy of upholding.  Some preps may be elite, some may come from money...but this no longer defines "prep".  In some ways preps live simply, they are not flashy in their wardrobe or in their mannerisms.  They treat others with their deserved respect, and are very socially adaptable.  Preps tend to be hard-working, and take pride in their country and where they came from.  Active, family oriented, and fun loving...they do have a good time.  They stand strong in their faith and beliefs, but do not bash opposers. Oh...and do they throw great events!  This is the preppy lifestyle.  

How do you define "preppy"?

Hope you are all having a great Wednesday (Westy Wednesday later tonight)!  Thank you for your continued support!