Preppy colors play an essential role in nailing the preppy aesthetic. Without them, you might end up with a look that’s too muted or overly traditional. Imagine you've curated a beautiful preppy outfit of a classic collared shirt and a cable knit sweater. But when you pull out a pair of chinos or shorts to complete the look, they're a dull khaki color. While there's nothing wrong with this color, it likely won't help your outfit achieve that youthful, colorful vibe characteristic of the style. Instead, reach for a pair of bright colored chinos, or better yet, a pair with a fun plaid or other print featuring some of the colors from your top. 

Achieving the right balance of color and prints will help you create an eye-catching look that exudes timeless elegance and effortless style. This blog will help you confidently wear preppy colors and patterns easily, achieving a stylish and polished look that reflects timeless elegance without the fear of clashing or overdoing it. WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app is a valuable tool that can help you achieve your goals by helping you identify the preppy colors that work best for your unique coloring.

Table of Contents

• What Are the Preppy Colors?

• 4 Preppy Color Combos That Ensure You Always Look Elegant

• What Colors Are Popular For Preppy Tops?

• How to Mix and Match Preppy Colors

• The Dos and Don’ts of Pattern Mixing

• A Preppy Man's Guide to Matching Clothes

• Using Preppy Colors in Modern Decor

• Dressing Preppy On A Budget

• Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

What Are the Preppy Colors?

The preppy style draws from the classic looks of Ivy League college students and features crisp, clean, and tailored clothing that reflects a lifestyle of privilege and leisure. The aesthetic is associated with:

• Timeless

• Classic fashion

• Blending formal 

• Casual dressing elements 

Color is an important aspect of the preppy style, and certain hues evoke the aesthetic’s origins and values.

Staple Preppy Colors

According to the preppy subculture’s origins and evolution, some colors are quintessential to the Preppy aesthetic. Over the years, trends have come and gone, but these preppy colors have remained constants in the preppy aesthetic and subculture. 

Each Preppy color has ties to Preppy origins, values, and activities, such as an appreciation for the:

• Outdoors

• Sports

• Academic endeavors

• Balance of formality and casualness

Navy Blue

Navy blue is a staple preppy color, a dominant color in school uniforms, formal wear, and naval attire.

Crimson

Deep red is another key preppy color associated with some Ivy League institutions, notably Harvard.

Khaki

Predominantly found in chinos, khaki reflects the influence of military attire and is a staple color of the preppy style.

Forest Green

Deep greens are associated with outdoor leisure activities like golfing and hunting, which are popular among the upper class. The green color also ties to the environmental colors of the Ivy League campuses.

Nantucket Red

Salmon pink is a hallmark preppy color, originating from the trousers sold in Nantucket’s Murray’s Toggery Shop. The trousers fade with wear to a distinctive washed-out pink, symbolic of leisurely summers on the New England coast.

Yellow

As a color reflecting the vibrancy and positivity of the preppy style, yellow is often found in polo shirts and preppy summer dresses. Yellow has an always sunny, optimistic connotation, which aligns with the preppy subculture’s association with:

• Leisure

• Positivity

• Happiness

Gold

Inspired by the brass buttons on traditional navy blazers, gold is the color of choice for preppy accessories (gold cufflinks, rings, earrings, watches) and signifies:

• Tradition

• Luxury

• Sophistication

Pastels

Light pink, sky blue, and mint green pastels became popular in the 1980s during the peak preppy period and continue to be associated with the preppy aesthetic.

Black

While not as prevalent as the other Preppy colors, black is used in evening wear for formal events, reflecting the influence of traditional tuxedos.

White

From tennis outfits to Oxford shirts, white is a crucial preppy color that confers stylistic versatility and timeless appeal.

The Patterns and Materials of Preppy Style

The preppy Aesthetic comprises characteristic patterns such as:

• Plaids

• Gingham

• Madras

• Plaids

• Argyle

Materials like:

• Cotton

• Wool

• Cashmere

• Representative colors

Preppy Patterns

Some of the most iconic patterns representing the Preppy aesthetic are:

Plaid

Originating from Scottish tartans and used in British school uniforms, plaid became a popular Preppy aesthetic element thanks to its association with heritage and tradition. Plaid is most often used in:

• Skirts

• Trousers

• Scarves

Stripes

In navy blue and white, stripes reflect the nautical influence and can be seen on:

• Boat neck tees

• Repp ties

• Rugby shirt stripes 

They are a cornerstone preppy pattern.

Gingham

The checkered pattern, which has roots in British countryside fashions, was adopted by the American preppies for use on shirts and dresses.

Argyle

The Scotland diamond-shaped pattern is critical to preppy culture and is used in golfing sweaters, socks, and hats. It reflects the community’s continental heritage and connection to sports.

Polka Dots

Polka dots are a classic pattern in many fashion styles. Preppy women use them to add a touch of femininity to women’s clothing and accessories. 

Madras

Originating from Madras (now Chennai), India, the colorful checked pattern became famous in mid-20th-century preppy summer wear.

Paisley

Paisley is an intricate Persian pattern that became popular in the West after the importation of Indian textiles. In preppy fashion, paisley is used in ties and scarves for a touch of:

• Elegance 

• Exoticism

Nautical Motifs

Thematic patterns like anchors, sailboats, and ropes, used particularly in preppy aesthetic room decors, reflect the preppy style’s ties to coastal leisure activities and are also used in casual summer wear and accessories.

Florals

While less common than the other patterns mentioned above, floral patterns are found in Preppy women’s and spring and summer clothing.

Seersucker

It is not a pattern per se but a fabric. Suits from Seersucker are a staple Southern Preppy, thanks to the material’s lightness and breathability.

Preppy Textiles and Materials

Common materials used in preppy aesthetics include high-quality natural materials like:

• Wool

• Cashmere

• Cotton

• Classic Oxford cloth

Tweed, flannel, and seersucker are also used for extra texture and visual interest. 

Color Match Technology using Whatcolors

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, thanks to our patented color-match technology, you can 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 color 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.

Related Reading

• Preppy Bedroom
• Preppy Nails
• Preppy Clothes
• Preppy Outfits
• Preppy Style
• Preppy Girl
• Preppy Photos
• Preppy
• Preppy Pictures
• Preppy Room
• Preppy Stuff

4 Preppy Color Combos That Ensure You Always Look Elegant

1. Classic and Timeless: Red, White, and Navy Blue

Color combinations set the tone for preppy fashion, and no pairing is as classic as red, white, and navy blue. This trifecta of colors evokes images of summer sailing trips and American heritage. 

The combination looks especially significant in the summertime, but it works all year for polished preppy outfits. I’ve been loving vintage Ralph Lauren ads lately, and it seems like the models are always styled in:

• Red

• White

• Navy

Outfit Ideas

A simple way to incorporate this color combination into your wardrobe is with a Ralph Lauren American flag sweater. It’s an iconic piece and looks great with white shorts and sneakers for an easy, casual, yet put-together summer outfit. If it’s a bit cooler, I’ll add a bright red windbreaker to the look. 

For a more elevated approach to this color combination, I have a button-down jacket in this color scheme that I wear as a dress with navy loafers. It’s incredible how sophisticated this preppy color combination can look! And don’t worry, your outfits won’t scream “July 4th.” Instead, they’ll exude timeless elegance.

2. A Fun Pairing: Green and Pink

Green and pink give off 80s preppy vibes, and this color combination is controversial. You either love it or hate it. I love it. This cheerful duo feels fun and flashy, giving me summer vacation vibes, think Beverly Hills Hotel. 

A preppy aesthetic with this color scheme can look elegant, too. For a recent event, I paired a pink blouse with some green culottes and heels in a very light pink. The ensemble has some Palm Beach vibe, but it’s still elevated. 

3. A Glamorous Trio: Hot Pink, White, and Gold

Another great preppy color combination is hot pink, white, and gold. This looks especially great for summer. I have a bright pink top and always like to style it with my high-waisted white broderie anglaise shorts. 

You can wear gold accessories with hot pink and white, and feature them that way. The result is a glamorous beach-ready outfit.

4. A Drama-Filled Color Combination: Military Red, Black, and Camel

The last preppy color combination I’ll discuss is military red, black, and camel. This color combo is very “get the London look” to me. It’s also straightforward to achieve. I wore a white Oxford shirt, high-waisted black shorts, black flats, and a trusty trench coat. 

To bring the red into the outfit, I’ve popped on my red Baker Boy hat. I think this color combination looks good with that little pop of red in an accessory, maybe your shoes or something. I’ve also seen it done with a full red sweater, camel trench coat, and black jeans, and that also looks really nice.

What Colors Are Popular For Preppy Tops?

The Classy Staple: Navy Blue

Navy blue is the cornerstone of preppy fashion. This versatile color exudes sophistication and pairs well with almost any other color. Whether it's a navy polo shirt, a classic blazer, or a casual sweater, navy blue is a must-have in any preppy wardrobe.

Clean and Crisp: White 

White tops are synonymous with clean, crisp, and sharp aesthetics. From button-down shirts to chic blouses, white is a neutral color that complements any outfit. It’s an essential color that offers endless styling possibilities.

Make a Statement With Kelly Green

Kelly green is a vibrant, fresh color that screams preppy. It's perfect for adding color to your ensemble while maintaining that polished look. Whether it's a polo, a sweater, or cardigan, kelly green is a fantastic choice for those looking to make a statement.

The Bold Touch: Ruby Red

Red is another classic color that exudes confidence and style. A ruby red top can add a touch of boldness to your preppy outfit without overwhelming the look. Pair it with neutral shades like navy or white for a balanced ensemble.

A Touch of Femininity: Soft Pink

Soft pink is a quintessential preppy color that adds a touch of femininity and elegance to your wardrobe. It’s ideal for spring and summer but can be incorporated year-round. Think:

• Pink oxford shirts

• Cable-knit sweaters

• Light cardigans

The Newcomers: Modern Preppy Colors

While classic colors remain evergreen, modern preppy fashion has seen the inclusion of some 

new hues that add a contemporary twist to the timeless style.

Adding Pastels to the Mix

Pastel colors like lavender, mint green, and baby blue have become increasingly popular in modern preppy fashion. These soft, muted tones are perfect for adding a touch of subtle color to your outfit, especially in warmer months.

Earth Tones for Autumn and Beyond

Earth tones like olive green, camel, and sienna have found their way into the preppy color palette. These colors offer a more grounded, sophisticated look that’s perfect for fall and winter. Earth tones can be easily integrated into your preppy wardrobe through sweaters, blazers, and tops.

The Chic Alternative: Charcoal Gray

Charcoal gray is a modern alternative to the classic black. It’s less harsh and provides a more versatile option that can be dressed up or down. Whether it’s a turtleneck, a fitted top, or a sleek cardigan, charcoal gray is a chic addition to your preppy collection.

How to Mix and Match Preppy Colors

Every great wardrobe starts with some quality basics. These are your go-to pieces that never go out of style. Think white button-down shirts, neutral tops, and classic dark-wash jeans. Don’t forget a denim jacket and a trench coat for those chilly days.

Pro tip: Invest in these timeless pieces. They’ll last longer and save you money in the long run.

Color is Key

Now, let’s talk color. Understanding the color wheel is a great way to create harmonious looks. Start with a color palette that complements your skin tone. Mix neutral colors like black, white, and beige with pops of vibrant color for that preppy punch.

The three-color rule in fashion is a simple guideline for creating harmonious and balanced outfits. It suggests limiting your outfit to three primary colors:

• Base color

• Primary color

• Accent color

Rule of Three

This rule helps create a cohesive look while adding visual interest.

Start with your basic pieces and get creative. A white shirt can be worn with a black blazer and heels for a special event or casually with denim shorts for a summer day. 

• Cool combo: Try a striped shirt with black jeans and ankle boots for a chic, everyday look.

• Try this: Pair navy pants with a white top and add a bright statement necklace for a pop of color.

Don’t Forget the Accessories

The right accessories can transform an outfit. A classic watch, a wide-brimmed hat, or a bold statement necklace can add extra oomph to your look.

Sometimes, less is more. Choose one or two statement pieces to avoid overwhelming your outfit.

Outfit Occasions

Preppy outfit ideas can work for every occasion. 

• School Day: A peplum top with navy pants and ballet flats is comfy and cute. 

• Weekend Casual: Pair a polo shirt with jean shorts and boat shoes for a classic preppy vibe. 

• Special Events: A little black dress with a statement necklace and heels always wins. 

• Summer Fun: Rock a tank top with a flowy skirt and sandals for those warmer months.

• Travel-Ready: Pack light with mix-and-match pieces like a white button-down, black pants, and versatile accessories.

Seasonal Styles

As the seasons change, so can your preppy style. In spring and summer, lightweight pants and bright colors are your friends. For fall and winter, layer up with sweaters and add rich, dark colors to your palette. 

Seasonal swap: Trade your jean shorts for dark-wash jeans when the temperature drops.

Patterns Are Bold and Playful

Ready to level up? Try mixing patterns! Stripes and polka dots can be besties if you do it right. The key is to keep the colors in the same family and vary the size of the patterns. 

Bold move: Pair polka dot pants with a striped shirt in complementary colors for a fun, preppy look.

Find Your Preppy Style

While preppy style has some classic elements, it’s all about making it your own. Maybe you love bold prints, or perhaps you’re all about minimalist chic. Play around and find what makes you feel confident and fabulous!

You don’t need a million pieces to create a stylish wardrobe. Focus on versatile items that can be mixed and matched in different ways. And don’t forget to check out thrift stores – you can find some amazing preppy pieces at great prices!

Smart shopper tip: Think of at least three outfits you can create with that piece before buying.

The Dos and Don’ts of Pattern Mixing

Start Small to Ease Into Pattern Pairing

If you’re new to pattern mixing, I recommend starting small. Choose your favorite patterned top and pair it with a printed accessory like a:

• Purse

• Shoes

• Sunglasses

Accessories are subtle enough that you can test whether the print combo works without feeling overly dressed.

Don’t Go Overboard, Less Is More

While it can be done stylishly, mixing more than two patterns can quickly make your outfit look too busy. When just starting, combine two main patterns to keep your look stylish instead of over-the-top.

Pick Patterns in a Similar Color Scheme

Choose patterns in the same color palette. This is my number one tip for pattern mixing because choosing similarly colored prints removes the question of whether or not the colors go together. 

You can still successfully mix prints that aren’t in the same color scheme, but choosing ones that match is almost a guarantee the pieces will create a stylish look.

Don’t Overdo It with Accessories

It's one thing to have a printed piece of clothing and a printed accessory. But usually, when I have several printed garments in an outfit, I try to keep my jewelry and other accessories to a minimum. 

Pattern mixing is about balance; too many accessories can tip the scales to the ‘over-the-top’ side.

Use Neutral Pieces to Tone Down Patterns

Layering a denim jacket over a heavily printed outfit is one of my go-to tricks for distracting or tone down the boldness of a pattern-heavy outfit. 

Other neutralizing pieces could include:

• A solid-colored cardigan

• A military jacket

• Other neutral-toned layers

Don’t Choose Patterns of the Same Size or Scale

Pattern mixing can go wrong easily by picking two really big patterns to pair together or two really small patterns. The most successful print mixing is done by juxtaposing a small-scale pattern with a big-scale pattern.

Color Match Technology with WhatColors

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, thanks to our patented color-match technology, you can 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 color 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.

A Preppy Man's Guide to Matching Clothes

Preppy style is built on timeless and sophisticated fabrics, prints and textures. We’re talking:

• Cotton.

• Wool and cashmere

• Gingham

• Seersucker and madras

• Tweed

• Corduroy 

• Cable knit

It’s familiar; it’s comfortable and incredibly versatile. Pair any of these with chinos and loafers, and you’re ready to make an entrance.

Classic Staples

To look put together and not thrown together, make sure these evergreen closet staples fit appropriately and are cut or tailored for current-day wear. Some shapes will never go out of style, while others shift over time. 

Your body type and personal style will dictate what silhouette is best for you. Follow your gut or call us, and we’ll gladly offer advice. Generally, if you feel like you’re staring back at your middle-school self, make sure it’s due to nostalgia and not your teenage wardrobe.

Coordinate Your Colors

Bright whites and handsome blues, mainly sky tones and navy, are the foundation of the preppy gentleman’s year-round style. Color and pattern are easily layered over this all-purpose palette.

Cool-weather looks tend to be on the conservative side, featuring masculine and mature tones that include:

• Burgundy

• Terracotta

• Emerald

• Mustard 

• Mocha

Autumn Patterns

Patterns prominent at this time of year are:

• Collegiate stripes

• Argyle

• Herringbone 

• Tartan

Ensembles feel:

• Warm

• Approachable 

• Refined

Spring & Summer

Spring and Summer usher in more youthful and lively colors. Pastel as well as vibrant blues, greens, pinks and yellows are famous, as are playful patterns like:

• Florals

• Polka dots

• Gingham 

• Paisleys

Warm-weather preppy looks tend to be polished yet casual and fun.

When In Rome (or Want To Be)

Preppy looks draw inspiration from various gentlemanly sporting events and social circles. Grounded in tradition, themes are often centered around Ivy League pastimes like:

• Polo and horse racing

• Cricket and rugby

• Rowing and sailing

Locale also serves as an influence, such as:

• The English countryside

• The Hamptons

• Martha’s Vineyard

• The South of France
  
  
  

With so many colors, patterns, textures, and themes, it can be easy to go overboard.

Single Theme

For maximal charm and sophistication, be it dressy or casual, build your ensemble around a single theme. Opt for a central focal point, i.e., color or pattern on top with neutral on bottom, or vice versa.

Follow the Preppy Style Trends

Prep has been a mainstay in menswear since the early 1900s - which means it’s been subject to numerous trends and shifts over the decades. What once was considered elegant or relaxed might be dated today.

Modern Trends

Popping your collar used to be the ultimate finishing touch, but nowadays, it’s a pretty significant fashion faux pas. As another example, it was customary to tie your sweater around your shoulders or waist years ago, but that’s a no-no for the modern preppy gentleman.

Some current trends you might consider trying include: 

• Rolling and cuffing your pants and wearing no (or no-show) socks with boat shoes

• Loafers 

• Oxfords

Classic Trousers

Jeans, chinos and khakis are all safe styling bets, and other trousers may also work.    

Take classic oxford shoes to a new level by opting for neon laces, bright-colored soles, or an unexpected twist on two-tone leather or even a mix of materials. Donning a pair of GTH (Go To Hell) or critter pants.

GTH Pants

These loud and proud trousers have been getting the party started since the 50s, but have been stepped up a few notches in recent years.

Polish with Preppy Accessories

As is always the case, the thoughtful incorporation of fine accessories adds polish to your ensemble and infuses it with your personality. If wearing a statement color or print, plan on one to three complementary (but not matching) or muted accessories. 

When keeping your look simpler, dare to play with several accessories, one or a few of which can be a bit bolder.

Some of our favorite ways to spiff things up at R. Hanauer include adding interesting neckwear, such as a novelty bow tie or a necktie in a stunning Liberty London print and featuring a unique:

• Pocket square

• Embroidered or reversible belt

• Standout watch

• Noteworthy eyewear

Choosing an unexpected element, like a:

• Dashing ascot

• Handsome suspenders

• Funky socks.

Related Reading

• How to Be Preppy
• Preppy Outfit Ideas
• Preppy Things
• Preppy Hairstyles
• Preppy Pics
• Preppy Shoes
• Preppy Girls
• Preppy Room Decor
• Preppy Shirts
• Preppy Profile Pictures
• Preppy Brands
• Preppy Makeup
• Preppy Images
• Preppy Sweatshirts
• Preppy Dresses

Using Preppy Colors in Modern Decor

Navy blue and gold form a classic preppy pair. Deep blue creates a striking look on cabinetry or furniture, while gold adds glamour as hardware or fixtures. This scheme works beautifully in traditional homes and helps create a sophisticated, elegant feel.

White and pink offer a fresh take on the preppy aesthetic. Baby pink and gray warm up cool surfaces like marble countertops and bright white cabinetry in a traditional setting. Use this color combo in a kid's bathroom or a guest suite for a cheery, inviting look.

Color Combos

Teal blue with white and gray creates a fresh, inviting space. Use teal blue as the main color, accented by white and gray marble and gold accents for a luxe, preppy feel.

Emerald green and gold work well together to create a bold look. Use this color combo to stand out against a white background for a luxe, preppy feel.

Room Colors

Powder blue and cream make a room feel cozy yet fresh. This color scheme is popular in cottagecore and Nancy Meyers aesthetics.

Coral and white are perfect for small rooms. Coral on a wallpapered ceiling draws eyes upward. The bright hue adds a cheerful pop of color that complements any coastal decor. 

Furniture Choices & Layout

Color schemes and furniture choices are vital to creating a preppy room. Opt for classic combinations like:

• Navy blue and gold

• White and pink

Incorporate traditional furniture pieces such as English roll arm sofas and rattan accents, and add preppy touches with monogrammed pillows and gingham patterns.

Dressing Preppy On A Budget

Build Your Preppy Wardrobe With Versatile Clothes

When you’re on a budget, every dollar must count. The easiest way to accomplish this is to buy versatile clothes. Aim for items that fit the preppy style but can also work with the rest of your wardrobe. A pair of stretch twill pants like these sunny stretch compact twill pants in dusty silver can match with anything preppy:

• Boat shoes

• Button-downs

• Polo shirts

Classic Twill

Think of a good pair of twill pants as the foundation to build the rest of a classic preppy outfit. And with a durable twill construction, you can wear these pants repeatedly. If you want to lean more toward a vintage preppy look, classic vintage twill is your choice. 

Charleston Brick Vintage Twill pants fit nicely into any preppy wardrobe and offer a stylish alternative to ordinary denim. Once again, the key here is purchasing a great pair of pants you can use any day of the week.

Mix and Match Your Layers for a Classic Preppy Look

Dressing preppy is often associated with carefully applying layers, such as a sweater over a button-down or a navy blazer over two distinct layers in cooler weather. You can get more out of your clothes by mixing and matching your layers with regular purchases. 

How can you accomplish that? Here are some tips: Use versatile colors. It’s not hard to mix and match when you’ve got colors like:

• Navy

• White

• Khaki

• Salmon

Budget Tips

Stick to versatile colors with your limited budget. Try pops of contrast. A colorful dress shirt under a monochromatic sweater can offer an outfit a nice pop of color. Don’t limit these pops to just colors. Consider contrasting textures (smooth cotton vs. wool-knit) to make your outfits more interesting.

Skip the Over-Priced Brands for Affordable Preppy Fashion

There’s a stigma out there that anything preppy must also be expensive. But this isn’t necessarily the case. Dressing preppy is simply a style, it doesn’t require a dollar amount, and there’s no barrier to entry.

Seasonal Sales

Don’t fret about buying an item that might be on sale because of seasonal considerations. An item of clothing is still high-quality even if the price of it goes down. It doesn’t make you un-preppy to seek it out. It only makes you discerning and frugal. 

Go with a brand that offers prep-worthy clothes at the correct prices. For a head start, browse the Vintage 1946 collections.

Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

WhatColors helps you find what colors to wear based on your skin tone. Finally, thanks to our patented color-match technology, you can 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 color 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.

Related Reading

• Preppy Girl Aesthetic
• Preppy Skin Care
• Pink Preppy
• Aesthetic Preppy
• Preppy Definition
• Preppy Nail Colors
• Preppy Braces Colors
• Preppy Hair Colors
• What Colors Are Preppy
• Preppy Room Colors
• Pink Preppy Wallpaper
• Preppy Meaning
• Preppy Wallpaper Laptop
• Hailey Bieber Hair
• Cute Nail Inspo