A preppy bedroom strikes a balance between classic and casual decor. This style is fresh and inviting yet steeped in tradition, making it perfect for those who appreciate the past but want to live in the present. Do you need help pulling off the preppy aesthetic in your bedroom? 

This blog will provide tips and tricks for elevating your home decor and personal style with a preppy bedroom. The WhatColors AI personal color analysis app can help you nail the preppy aesthetic with personalized color suggestions to match your unique preferences.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Preppy Bedroom?

• 6 Characteristics of a Preppy Bedroom

• 5 Key Products to Help You Create Your Preppy-Style Bedroom

• 6 Preppy Bedroom Decor Must Haves

• The Preppiest Bedroom Accessories

• 20 Modern Preppy Bedroom Decor Ideas

• How Do I Make My Preppy Bedroom Look More Cozy & Unique

• How to Create a Preppy Bedroom on a Budget

• Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

What Is a Preppy Bedroom?

Classic, elegant, and timeless design elements define a preppy bedroom. The look incorporates soft color palettes, rich textures, and various patterns, such as stripes and plaids. Preppy rooms are appealing because they balance comfort with a tailored appearance. These rooms are perfect for creating a stylish retreat to:

• Relax

• Study

• Indulge your hobbies

6 Characteristics of a Preppy Bedroom

1. Color Schemes That Pop

Color is the most important element of any preppy aesthetic. A preppy bedroom is typically bright and cheerful, featuring bold color combinations that create a lively atmosphere. You might find a mix of pastel colors, jewel tones, and rich hues like:

• Navy

• Forest green

• Burgundy

2. Fun Patterns  

Patterns add to the playful nature of preppy decor. Look for classic prints like stripes, plaid, and gingham, as well as quirky motifs like:

• Animal prints 

• Nautical imagery

3. Traditional Furniture  

The preppy style leans toward traditional design, so classic furniture pieces with a refined appearance are a must. Think of a well-appointed beach house or a cozy cottage in New England.

4. Textiles Galore 

A preppy bedroom is full of textiles, from bedding to curtains to throw pillows. These soft furnishings are often patterned or textured and can be layered for extra visual interest. 

5. Personal Touches 

A preppy bedroom reflects the personality of its owner, so don’t be afraid to incorporate personal items that speak to you. Display photos from your latest vacation, showcase your trophy collection or hang artwork that inspires you.

6. Muted Accent Colors

While preppy bedrooms are often bold and bright, they can also feature muted tones for balance. Incorporating soft neutrals or pastel colors will help create a more sophisticated look.

Skin Tone Analysis

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Thanks to our patented color match technology, you can get your season based on your skin tone. Get the perfect colors based on your season. Avoid colors that are a definite no. Based on your skin, eye, and hair color, find the perfect nail colors with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

Get your color analysis done within 60 seconds with WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.

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5 Key Products to Help You Create Your Preppy-Style Bedroom

1. The Preppy Bed Frame: A Simple Design to Let Your Bedding Shine

The bed frame for a preppy aesthetic can be pretty simple to make the colors in the room pop and the decorations the main focus. There is no particular style of bed for it to be preppy – it's all about the styling of the bed. If you want to keep your bedroom contemporary, the bed frame can do that for you.

2. Funky Bedding for a Preppy Bedroom

Every preppy room needs preppy bedding. We suggest finding one with funky patterns like stripes or gingham (in bright colors, obviously). Look for ones that have a fun, repetitive design or spark your interest. As we picked a simple frame, we wanted the bedding to be more exciting.

3. Choosing Soft Furnishings for a Preppy Aesthetic

Choosing curtains and cushions can change the preppy aesthetic, so choose wisely. This is your chance to have fun with the colors and designs to give you a style to work with. We've picked out a few that can be used as inspiration or the real deal – we think they should make the final makeover.

4. Furniture to Capture the Preppy Vibe

For the preppy furniture, you want a funky nightstand and a curved desk to keep to the joyous yet sophisticated vibe. Aside from those, there aren't any must-have pieces for your preppy bedroom. 

You can decide if you'd like to/have the space for any other furniture in your bedroom. Elegantly designed canopy beds create a focal point in the room while evoking a sense of:

• Luxury 

• Elegance

5. Wall Art to Bring Your Preppy Bedroom to Life

The most obvious way to fill the walls is to put wallpaper up to create a feature wall. If this isn't for you, you can make a collage of prints and posters as your wall decor. Of course, there is always the choice to paint the walls, but it is optional. 

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6 Preppy Bedroom Decor Must Haves

1. Collegiate Wallpaper for Preppy Bedrooms

Wallpaper makes a statement in your preppy bedroom. Pick a wallpaper that features a preppy pattern like:

• Stripes

• Plaid

• Gingham

• Floral

Animal Wallpaper

You can also opt for a wallpaper with an animal motif like:

• Elephants

• Zebras

• Butterflies

Wallpaper can cover all four walls for a dramatic effect or accent one wall for a subtle touch.

2. Preppy Lighting to Brighten Your Room

Choose a lighting fixture with a preppy vibe, like a crystal chandelier or a sleek contemporary lamp. Lighting can dramatically alter the mood of a room, so choose wisely! 

3. Classy Furniture with Traditional Style

Furniture can add more function and comfort to your preppy bedroom. Choose pieces that feature classic preppy materials like:

• Wood

• Leather

• Cane

Elegant Furniture

You can also select furniture with elegant details, such as:

• Studded headboards

• Scalloped edges

• Tufted upholstery

Consider adding distinctive elements like a monogrammed headboard or a stylish vanity table. These pieces can serve as focal points, adding character to the room and providing functional benefits.

4. Traditional Bedding for Preppy Bedrooms 

You can choose bedding that matches or complements your wallpaper or wall color. You can also mix and match different patterns on your bedding, such as:

• Stripes with floral 

• Plaid with animal prints

Bedding can include details, such as monograms, embroidery, buttons, or bows, that add more prettiness to your space.

5. Sloan Ranger Rugs for Cozy Comfort 

Rugs MAKE a room! You can layer different rugs on each other for a cozy and eclectic look. Rugs can also introduce different textures like wool, cotton, or faux fur, adding warmth and comfort to your space. 

Choose rugs with patterns or stripes that complement your color scheme. These will add texture and warmth to your preppy bedroom.

6. Posh Pillows for a Preppy Vibe 

Pillows are another great way to incorporate your favorite styles. Pillows can include cute details like tassels, sequins, or pom-poms that add fun and whimsy to your space.

The Preppiest Bedroom Accessories

Wall decor adds interest and charm to any space, including preppy bedrooms. A gallery wall can help you achieve that preppy aesthetic while allowing you to showcase your unique personality. 

Start with a few preppy art pieces, then layer in personal photographs and memorabilia to add a distinctive personal touch to your space.

Preppy Accents Bring a Room to Life

Accents are the items that bring a room to life. You’ll find accents with bright colors, playful motifs, and classic patterns in a preppy bedroom. You can also choose accents with quintessential preppy motifs, such as:

• Monograms

• Anchors

• Flags

• Crests

Nowadays, many people choose accents that feature playful, preppy motifs such as:

• Pineapples

• Flamingos

• Palm trees

Stylish Storage Organizes a Preppy Bedroom

Preppy bedrooms are always organized. Invest in stylish storage options like wicker baskets, vintage trunks, or chic storage boxes to keep your room clutter-free while maintaining that preppy aesthetic.

20 Modern Preppy Bedroom Decor Ideas

1. Add A Bold Touch With Oversized Stripes

Stripes are a classic preppy pattern, and you can add a bold touch to your bedroom design by opting for oversized versions in your decor. Wallpaper with extra-large stripes can create an eye-catching focal point and add a fun, modern twist to your preppy aesthetic. You can also take your wall stripes to new levels by placing them on the fifth wall.

2. Embrace Pattern With Your Bedding

If you haven’t caught on, patterns are an intrinsic part of the preppy aesthetic. It’s simple to make traditional patterns feel modern. One of the best ways to achieve this fun and spirited style is through bedding. 

Choose simple patterns like stripes, checks, or gingham in bright colors for a traditional preppy vibe, but pair them with more muted tones on your walls for a more contemporary and sophisticated edge.

3. Don’t Compromise On Style For Functionality

When trying to achieve a preppy style in the bedroom - or any interior scheme, for that matter - it’s best to incorporate every room detail into your design. Furniture items like our bed, headboard, or desk chairs don’t have to be:

• Plain 

• Simple

'The preppy look sees traditionally styled furnishings paired with fun fabrics and accessories.' Invest in a bespoke, upholstered chair customized in a print of your choice, or opt for a bright and decorative chest of drawers to embrace a vibrant, preppy vibe.

4. Go Eclectic With A Gallery Wall

Nothing pairs classic and fun like a gallery wall. While uniform framed art has a traditional feel, a mix-match of frames, photos, and wall art hung asymmetrically on a wall can help introduce a playful preppiness to your bedroom while adding personality.

5. Navy And White

A quintessential preppy color combination, navy and white exudes timeless elegance. Navy is the anchor color, while white adds brightness and a fresh feel to the room. 

This color scheme complements traditional and modern preppy aesthetics, making it a versatile choice for any preppy bedroom.

6. Pastel Palette

Opt for a pastel color palette for a softer, whimsical preppy look. Choose light blue, pale pink, mint green, and lavender to create a dreamy and feminine atmosphere. 

Pastel hues can be incorporated through bedding, curtains, and accessories, lending a charming and delicate touch to the overall design.

7. Bold Patterns

Preppy design is synonymous with bold patterns that make a statement. Incorporate patterns like stripes, chevrons, gingham, or polka dots into your color scheme to add:

• Dimension 

• Visual interest

Mix and match different patterns, but keep the color palette cohesive to avoid overwhelming the space.

8. Sleek And Minimalist Furniture Designs

Choose furniture with clean lines and minimalist designs to achieve a modern preppy aesthetic. Look for sleek bed frames, dressers, and nightstands made of wood or metal. Remember to keep the scale of the furniture in proportion to the size of your bedroom for a balanced and cohesive look.

9. Layer Textures For Depth And Visual Interest

Add depth and visual interest to your modern preppy bedroom by layering different textures. Incorporate plush rugs, soft throw blankets, and velvet or linen accent pillows for a cozy and luxurious feel. Mixing textures adds dimension to your space and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

10. Sophisticated Accents And Artwork

Choose sophisticated accents and artwork that complement your modern preppy bedroom decor. Opt for abstract or minimalist art pieces in muted colors or black and white to add a contemporary touch. 

Select elegant decorative accessories like metallic candle holders or geometric vases to enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.

11. Hand-Painted Accent Walls

Paint an accent wall to add a pop of color and pattern to your preppy bedroom. Choose a bold color, such as coral or navy, and use painter’s tape to create geometric designs or stripes. This DIY project will add a playful yet sophisticated touch to your space.

12. Personalized Monogrammed Bedding

Choose fabric letters or create stencils of your initials. Place the letters or stencils on your bedding and trace them with fabric paint or a marker. 

Allow the paint to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Enjoy your personalized and preppy monogrammed bedding!

13. Create Beautiful Vignettes

Add a touch of charm to your preppy bedroom by creating beautiful vignettes on dressers, nightstands, and shelves. Select a few carefully curated items, such as a stack of fashion books, a vintage alarm clock, and a vase of fresh flowers, to create visually appealing vignettes that reflect your style.

14. Choose A Focal Point

Highlight a focal point in your preppy bedroom to draw attention and create a sense of balance. It could be an eye-catching headboard, a statement chandelier, or a piece of artwork. 

Arrange the rest of your furniture and accessories around this focal point to create a cohesive and visually pleasing arrangement.

15. Use Color To Create Depth

Experiment with color to create depth and dimension in your preppy bedroom. Choose a primary color scheme, such as navy and white or pink and green, and incorporate accents in complementary hues. Use lighter shades for a fresh, airy feel and deeper tones for a cozy, sophisticated ambiance.

16. Nautical Theme

A nautical-themed room is a classic preppy choice. It often incorporates navy blues, crisp whites, and stripes to create a nautical atmosphere. Decor elements like anchor motifs, ship wheels, or sailboat models can complete the maritime aesthetic.

17. Plaid Patterns

Plaids and checks, particularly in shades of red, green, or blue, are staples in preppy decor. When used in upholstery, curtains, or bedding, they can create a warm, inviting look that evokes a sense of comfort and tradition.

18. Chinoiserie Accents

Chinoiserie elements like bamboo chair, porcelain vases, or silkscreens can add an exotic touch to a preppy room. These elements can create an interesting visual contrast and inject a sense of global style into your space.

19. Classic Book Collection

A collection of classic literature neatly arranged in a beautiful bookcase can be a great addition to a preppy room. Not only does it reflect a love of reading and learning, but it also adds a sophisticated touch to your decor.

20. Layered Bedding

Layered bedding with sheets, quilts, duvets and a pile of throw pillows can make a bedroom feel cozy, comfortable, and preppy. This is a great way to incorporate patterns, colors, and textures into your room, creating a bed that is as visually appealing as it is comfortable.

How Do I Make My Preppy Bedroom Look More Cozy & Unique?

If you want to make your preppy bedroom look more cozy, you can follow these tips:

Choose a Warmer Color Scheme

Select a warmer color scheme to warm up the space and make it cozier, such as:

• Red and white

• Yellow and blue

• Orange and green

This will help your preppy bedroom feel more inviting and comfortable.

Choose a Soft, Warm Pattern

Picking a soft, warm pattern will also help make your preppy bedroom more inviting. For instance, floral, polka dot, and paisley designs can add a touch of charm and create a more relaxing atmosphere.

Choose Textured Wallpaper or Paint

You can further enhance the cozy feel of your preppy bedroom by selecting textured wallpaper or painting your walls a lighter color. Textured walls look more organic and can make a space feel more inviting.

Choose Fluffy Bedding

Remember to select the right bedding when it comes to cozying up your preppy bedroom. Fluffy bedding such as faux fur, velvet, or fleece can help create:

• A warm 

• Inviting atmosphere

Choose Comfy Furniture

Swap out any modern metal furniture for comfy, more traditional pieces to create a cozy, preppy bedroom. Wood, wicker, and rattan furniture can create a relaxing atmosphere that invites you to sit down and stay a while.

Choose Cozy Accessories

You can also cozy up your preppy bedroom with accessories like candles and lanterns for warm lighting and soft pillows for extra comfort.

Personalize Your Preppy Bedroom for a Unique Style 

If you want to make your preppy bedroom look more unique, you can follow these tips:

Choose an Unexpected Color Scheme

Selecting an unexpected color scheme is a great way to add personality to your preppy bedroom. Try purple and white, turquoise and pink, or black and gold for a fresh take on the preppy look.

Choose an Unusual Pattern

You can also personalize your preppy bedroom by selecting an unusual pattern for your decor. Instead of classic florals, try a cow print, zebra stripe, or leopard spot for a quirky twist.

Choose Creative Wallpaper or Wall Decor

Another way to add uniqueness to your preppy bedroom is to select creative wallpaper or wall decor. I love large floral prints for a preppy look with personality. You could also paint your walls with a mural or stencil for an artsy vibe.

Choose Quirky Bedding

Bedding offers a big opportunity to express your style, so choose a quirky bedding set that:

• Suits your tastes 

• Makes you smile

How to Create a Preppy Bedroom on a Budget

Exploring thrift stores is one of the best ways to find affordable preppy decor. These hidden gems often offer unique and vintage pieces that add character and charm to your bedroom. Look for classic furniture items like dressers, side tables, and chairs with clean lines and elegant details. Don’t hesitate to give these items a fresh coat of paint or reupholster them to fit your desired color scheme.

Get Crafty with DIY Projects

Another budget-friendly option is to embrace the world of DIY projects. Get creative and make custom decor pieces that reflect your style. Consider painting an accent wall with bold stripes or creating your artwork using preppy motifs like nautical symbols or monograms. DIY projects allow you to showcase your creativity while keeping costs low.

Shop Smart Online

When it comes to finding affordable preppy decor, online shopping can be a game-changer. Browse through various e-commerce platforms and websites that offer budget-friendly options. Look for sales, discounts, and clearance sections to snag great deals on:

• Preppy bedding

• Pillows

• Rugs

• Other accessories

Consider joining online communities or following social media accounts that curate affordable home decor to stay up-to-date with the latest bargains.

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Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, our patented color match technology lets you get your season based on your skin tone. Get the perfect colors based on your season. Avoid colors that are a definite no. Based on your skin, eye, and hair color, find the ideal nail colors with our WhatColors nail color generator. 

Get your color analysis done within 60 seconds with WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.