Imagine walking into a room that feels instantly welcoming, effortlessly chic, and entirely your own. You might picture a space that blends classic decor with trendy touches, creating a cheerful atmosphere that's both stylish and personal. This image is at the heart of the preppy aesthetic, a decor style making a comeback, and has the power to transform your home. One of the best parts about creating a preppy space is that you can customize it to reflect your unique tastes and interests. 

No two preppy rooms are alike, and you can quickly achieve this look by incorporating your favorite colors, patterns, and textures. Preppy room colors are inarguably one of the most critical elements of this design style, as they set the tone for the entire space. In this blog, we'll introduce you to the best colors for a preppy room through WhatColors’ AI personal color analysis app and explore how to use them to create a charming, personalized space that blends classic and contemporary styles.

Table of Contents

• What Colors Are Preppy Colors?

• How Can I Make My Room Look Preppy?

• 30+ Preppy Room Colors & Interior Decor Inspirations

• 11 Preppy Bedroom Ideas to Create a Spaces That’s Energetic Yet Elevated

• 8 Preppy Room Secrets With a Modern Twist

• Dorm Room Decor Ideas For The Fall Semester

• Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today

What Colors Are Preppy Colors?

The classic preppy aesthetic is a visual construct that embodies British-inspired patterns like tartan, argyle, gingham, and glen check in muted colors and high-quality natural materials such as cotton, wool, and leather. The preppy aesthetic elements, patterns, colors, visuals, textiles, form the foundation of the preppy style.

Classic Trifecta

The holy trinity of preppy hues includes navy, white, and crimson, Tommy Hilfiger’s signature color combo. Think of classic rich tones like:

• Burgundy

• Emerald green

• Mocha brown

Warm shades like coral and sunny yellow, paired with crisp whites or soft grays, create a striking visual impact while maintaining balance and harmony.

Color Pairings Evoke Timeless Preppy Vibes

The preppy aesthetic and specific preppy dressing styles are present across the entire preppy fashion movement. This style is rooted in:

• British

• Scottish

• Irish cultures

Preppy aesthetic elements are standard parts of students’ uniforms at the country’s elite educational institutions, like:

• Oxford

• Eton

• Cambridge

New England Roots

In the 1800s, the British-inspired aesthetic was adopted by American private preparatory schools and colleges like:

• Harvard

• Yale

• Princeton. 

With its roots steeped in tradition and inspired by classic New England charm, the preppy aesthetic combines lavish elements with a modern glow and a touch of old-world glamour.

Aesthetic Inspirations

This vast aesthetic has plenty of inspiration; think of Ivy League campuses, elegant country clubs, seaside retreats, and homes that give off old-money solid vibes.

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How Can I Make My Room Look Preppy?

Set the Stage with Preppy Paint Palettes

Your selected color palette will set the stage for your preppy room decor. Narrow down two or three colors that you like. This foundation color will set the stage for all the other decorating elements in the room. The right wall color is key. 

White and shades of white, cream, and neutrals are a great place to start. The last thing you want is for colors to clash. If you prefer a preppy color, consider light pastels like:

• Pink

• Blue

• Green

• Yellow

Preppy Window Treatments and Coordinating Area Rugs

Now that you have your colors selected, two other foundational elements in preppy room decor are the window treatments and throw rugs. If you are fortunate enough to have beautiful windows to let the natural light flow in, that’s great. 

Instead of heavy fabric drapes that are more classic and traditional, select a lighter, flowing sheer fabric in a neutral shade that complements the wall color. Window treatments like shutters that can open and close or a simple fabric topper above the window add a nice touch without weighing the room down.

Colorful Rugs

Select one colorful area rug or multiple rugs to coordinate with the window treatments. Think about how the rug feels when you walk across it barefoot. Go for petal soft and fluffy. If your room is large enough, add multiple area rugs. 

Display a welcome-style rug at the entrance, a larger, colorful, and fluffy one in the middle of the room, and a smaller, smiley face patterned area rug at the bottom of the bed.

Fabulous Preppy Furniture

Glamour and gorgeous are on the list for preppy room decor and furniture. Practical and pretty are two elements that will fill your room with style. Similar to wall color, go for lighter, cheerful:

• pink

• turquoise

• Blue

• Yellow

• White

Furniture Focus

Mix and match colors for an eclectic look or select bed frames, chairs, dressers, desks, and other fabulous monochromatic furniture in one color. 

This is visually easier on the eyes and looks more sophisticated, especially with the addition of different colored preppy accents. Create a focal point with a colorful oversized bean bag chair or hanging chair.

Preppy Bedding Pillows and Throws

A combination of bedding, pillows, and throws adds a preppy personality to your preppy decor. This is especially the case if your walls are a set color and you can’t paint them. Go for a fresh, pastel color palette and comfortable, luxurious fabrics. 

Layer large accent pillows with medium and smaller accent pillows. Accent pillows of different shapes add a delightful dimension. Casually display warm and cozy throws at the end of your bed and over chairs. Think:

• Soft

• Feel-good-to-touch materials

• Whimsical prints

• Floral patterns

• Hearts

• Other feel-good designs

Mix and match fabrics for cheerful and eye-catching comfort. Consider combining and mixing patterns with stripes.

Preppy Lamps, Mirrors, and String Lights

Lighting can instantly change the look and feel of a room. Lamps and string lights not only add a special touch to your preppy room decor but also enhance the space with:

• Beauty 

• Style

Hang whimsical and romantic string lights above your desk or throughout the room. Select a light-up mirror with big bulbs inspired by old Hollywood vanities and display a colorful lamp on your nightstand, maybe in the shape of a pelican or seashell. A dramatic neon light adds an unexpected touch to your preppy-style atmosphere.

Preppy Accessories with Personality

The final touches on your preppy room decor are totally up to you. 

• Start with a framed inspirational message on your dresser and a colorful flower by the window.

• Hang cheerful wall art above the bed and display a motivational mug for a catch-all on your desk. 

• Set fragrant candles in fresh and bright dishes on your bookshelf. 

• Create a collection or collage of selfies with friends and family and post them on a bulletin board. 

Surrounding your room with things you love and memories of people you love to reflect your individuality. As time passes, you will settle into your new preppy room decor and add more accessories to show your personality.

Preppy Patterns and Signs

As mentioned earlier, the preppy decor trend is about making you happy when you spend time in your room. It is also:

• Summery

• Whimsical

• Cheerful

If you like your room filled with preppy patterns and signs, make it work. If you prefer the less is more approach, go for one or two patterns and shapes, which is just as effective. Make your preppy style work for you.

Pattern Inspiration

Popular Preppy Patterns include:

• Animal prints: Butterflies, bees

• Cowboy and cowgirl themes

• Emojis and peace signs

• Fish and parachutes

• Flowers and floral prints

• Palm trees and owls

• Stars and parrots

• Tie-dye and lightning bolts

Do It Yourself Preppy Add Ons

If you are creative and have a crafty talent, make your own originals. DIY projects put your swing on preppy room decor. A project can be as simple as covering an ordinary bulletin board with colorful, whimsical fabric for to-do lists and photo collages. 

DIY Crafts

Decoupage, paint a flower pot, or cover a poster board made into your initial with stickers. Create and frame your very own painting or inspiration board. Try something new like making something old new again. 

Paint an old piece of furniture, transform forgotten crates into a stellar bookshelf, or spruce up an antique. Create a headboard with multiple vintage canvas artwork. The sky is the limit to what you can create for your preppy decor.

Color 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. 

Using our WhatColors nail color generator, you can find the perfect nail color based on your skin, eye, and hair color. 

AI Color Analysis

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.

30+ Preppy Room Colors & Interior Decor Inspirations

1. Color Palette: Pink, Sky Blue, Navy, and Turquoise

The color palette characterizes preppy room interior design, as it establishes a cheerful tone for the entire space. A harmonious blend of bold hues and soft pastels creates an inviting ambiance for any preppy room. 

Shades of pink, sky blue, navy, and turquoise evoke coastal charm and effortless sophistication for a refreshing and uplifting aesthetic. Incorporate these tones through:

• Decorative accessories

• Upholstery fabrics

• Accent walls to breathe new life into your interiors

2. Classical Preppy Style Patterns

Another essential element of preppy decor is classic patterns. Timeless designs such as stripes, houndstooth, and gingham checks add depth and character to interiors while capturing the essence of preppy style.

Classic Patterns

Stripes evoke nautical charm, making them ideal for upholstery or accent pieces. Houndstooth offers traditional elegance, lending a refined aesthetic to upholstery fabrics or throw pillows. 

Meanwhile, gingham checks infuse spaces with a casual yet polished vibe, perfect for curtains or table linens. Incorporating these patterns adds personality and charm to any preppy room decor.

3. Botanical Prints

Botanical prints surprisingly complement preppy spaces beautifully. Adorn your walls with floral wallpapers, lay a tablecloth with a botanical print, or seek out botanical posters and engravings framed to charm your interiors. 

Whether you opt for bold botanical patterns or subtle floral accents, incorporating botanical prints adds a vibrant and captivating element to your cute preppy room, effortlessly enhancing its:

• Overall appeal 

• Sophistication

4. Exotic Tropical and Animal Prints 

Yes, it prints again. These prints are popular in one aspect of the preppy style, featuring motifs such as:

• Palm fronds

• Zebra

• Giraffe patterns

Boldly incorporate them as accents within your decor scheme, whether through wallpaper on a feature wall or in accessories and artwork. These prints add a playful yet sophisticated element to your space, evoking the spirit of exploration and adding visual interest to a preppy living room.

5. Mixing Patterns and Textures 

Achieve the quintessential aesthetic preppy bedroom by masterfully mixing patterns and textures to create a collected-over-time aesthetic. Layer tartans with stripes, paisleys with florals, and checks with geometrics to add depth and visual interest to your flat. 

Incorporate a variety of textures such as linen, velvet, linen, and wool to evoke a sense of warmth and coziness. You can balance patterns with the following:

• Neutral backgrounds 

• Cohesive color schemes

6. Striped Wallpaper

Elevate your preppy room with the timeless elegance of striped wallpaper. Stripes are a hallmark of this classic style, evoking a sense of:

• Sophistication 

• Refinement

Whether you opt for bold, contrasting stripes or subtle tonal variations, striped wallpaper adds:

• Visual interest 

• Depth to any room

Accent Wall

Use it to create a focal point on an accent wall or to enhance the sense of space in smaller rooms. Pair with complementary decor elements such as:

• Solid-colored furnishings 

• Nautical-inspired accents to complete the preppy look

7. Crisp White Wainscoting and Crown Molding

Preppy room decor is characterized by timeless elegance. They often feature crisp white wainscoting and crown molding, architectural elements that bring:

• A sense of refinement 

• Sophistication to any space

Wainscoting adds texture and depth to walls while exuding a heritage charm. Paired with classic crown molding, it creates a cohesive, polished look that enhances the room's overall aesthetic.

8. Library-Inspired Preppy Living Room

Step into the refined world of a library-inspired preppy living room, where sophistication meets comfort in a harmonious blend. Create a focal point with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves adorned with:

• Bound volumes 

• Decorative accents

For a timeless aesthetic, incorporate classic elements such as:

• Wooden tables

• Chairs

• Brass accents

Timeless Elements

Complete the look with warm lighting, soft area rugs, and cozy throws, inviting you to relax with a good book in hand amidst an atmosphere of refined charm.

9. Monogrammed Linens and Towels 

Indulge in the classic elegance of monogrammed linens and towels to elevate your preppy house inside. Personalized with initials or family crests, these bespoke accents add a touch of refinement to your home. 

Whether adorning your guest bathroom or gracing your main suite, monogrammed linens exude a sense of tailored luxury. Choose from high-quality fabrics and embroidery styles to suit your:

• Taste 

• Decor scheme

10. Navy Blue and White Color Scheme 

The Navy blue and white color scheme for a nautical-inspired room is a quintessential element of the East Coast Prep aesthetic. Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of a nautical-inspired room with this classic palette, integral to the preppy room decor. 

Evoking the essence of coastal living, this color combination infuses spaces with tranquility and sophistication.

Nautical Theme

Anchor the room with navy blue accents such as upholstery, area rugs, and curtains reminiscent of the deep ocean waters. Complement this with crisp white walls, furniture, and linens to create a fresh and airy ambiance. Add nautical touches like:

• Rope accents

• Striped patterns

• Maritime artwork

11. Tartan Patterns for Throw Blankets and Pillows 

With their timeless appeal, traditional tartan patterns lend an air of heritage charm to any preppy room. Incorporate these classic designs into your decor scheme through the following:

• Cozy throw blankets 

• Accent pillows

Tartan Elegance

Whether traditional Scottish plaid or a contemporary interpretation, tartan adds depth and richness to your home's ambiance. Tartan throws offer warmth and style when draped over sectional sofa covers or armchairs. 

Scatter tartan pillows on beds or lounge chairs to enhance comfort while infusing the room with classic elegance. Embrace the enduring allure of tartan to imbue your living space with sophistication and timeless beauty.

12. Preppy Wall Posters 

Enhance your preppy bedroom with charming wall posters that are readily available on platforms like:

• Amazon 

• Etsy

Discover many options featuring preppy motifs, such as:

• Nautical scenes

• Equestrian imagery

• Classic patterns like stripes and plaid

Poster Art

These posters effortlessly add character and personality to your space, serving as eye-catching focal points that evoke the timeless elegance of preppy style. Whether adorning your living room, bedroom, or home office, these posters infuse your home with sophistication and charm.

13. Preppy Collages 

Or you can immerse yourself in the art of preppy wall collages, a delightful way to infuse charm into your interior decor. Crafted from magazine cutouts, book excerpts, and stickers, these collages creatively express your:

• Unique style 

• Interests

Incorporate inspirational quotes, vintage postcards, and travel souvenirs to add depth and storytelling to your collage. Hang these eclectic compositions in your cute preppy room, home office, or hallway to create a focal point that sparks conversation and captivates the eye, adding a personalized touch to your preppy home inside.

14. Ralph Lauren-Inspired Plaids and Paisleys 

Infuse your preppy room interior with the timeless elegance of Ralph Lauren-inspired plaids and paisleys. These iconic patterns, reminiscent of classic American style, add depth and richness to any space. 

Incorporate them into your decor through the following:

• Upholstery fabrics

• Throw blankets

• Accent pillows for a sophisticated touch

15. Hanging Hammock Chair

Introduce a touch of casual elegance to your cute preppy room with a hanging hammock chair. This charming addition combines comfort and style, creating a cozy, relaxing spot. For a laid-back retreat, hang it in a sunlit living room corner or on a covered porch. 

Choose a design in classic colors like navy or white, or opt for playful patterns to add visual interest. Paired with plush cushions and throws, a hanging hammock chair adds a whimsical touch to your preppy decor, inviting you to unwind in style.

16. Preppy Room Decor

Enhance preppy room decor's relaxed, playful atmosphere with elements like a plush pink rug, evil eye interior decoration, a rainbow table neon sign, and pillows shaped like starfish or seashells. 

These whimsical touches add personality and charm to your space, infusing it with:

• Fun 

• Lightheartedness

Quirky Accents

The vibrant colors and quirky accents create an inviting ambiance that captures the essence of preppy style. Embrace these playful decor elements to make a statement and express your unique style within your preppy-inspired interior.

17. Vintage Trophies or Awards 

Vintage trophies or awards serve as intriguing conversation pieces in preppy room interior design. These timeless accents evoke a sense of achievement and tradition, adding character to any space.

Vintage Trophies

Displayed on shelves, mantels, or glass cabinets, they create a captivating focal point while infusing the room with nostalgia. 

Whether authentic trophies from past competitions or vintage replicas, these items tell stories of success and excellence, contributing to the curated-over-time aesthetic of the preppy room.

18. Stripes on Bedding or Upholstered Headboards

Embrace the timeless appeal of preppy stripes by incorporating them into your bedding or upholstered headboards. Opt for crisp, tailored linens featuring classic stripe patterns in:

• Navy

• Red

• Green hues to evoke a sense of traditional elegance

Upholster your headboard with striped fabric for a bold statement piece that sophisticates the room. Striped bedding adds visual interest and dimension to your preppy bedroom, while upholstered headboards create a focal point.

19. Pink Armchair as a Focal Point

A vibrant pink armchair can be a focal point in a cute preppy room, whether a living room or a study. Whether a statement armchair or a cozy reading nook addition, a pink chair adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to the space. 

If you already have a chair, you can quickly transform it with IKEA armchair covers, making it pink to suit your preppy decor theme. This bold choice injects personality and warmth into the room, creating an inviting atmosphere that exudes the charm of preppy style.

20. Family Portraits in Antique Silver Frames

Adorning your preppy room with family portraits in antique silver frames adds a touch of:

• Timeless elegance 

• Sentimental charm

Antique Heirlooms

These treasured heirlooms create a personal connection to the past while adding sophistication to your decor. Display them on mantels, side tables, or gallery walls to infuse your space with warmth and character. 

The lustrous sheen of antique silver frames enhances the rich tones of vintage photographs, creating a captivating focal point in any room.

21. Vintage Sports Equipment as Wall Decor 

Elevate the aesthetic of your preppy bedroom with vintage sports equipment adorning your walls. These nostalgic pieces, such as antique tennis rackets, vintage golf clubs, or weathered baseball bats, add a touch of athleticism and heritage charm to your decor. 

Hang them in your study, game room, or den to create a captivating focal point that sparks conversation and nostalgia. The patina of age on these items adds character and authenticity to your space, evoking:

• A sense of classic elegance 

• Leisurely pursuits

22. Casual Preppy Furniture 

Preppy furniture offers a blend of sophistication and comfort to complement your interior decor. For added versatility, incorporate various shapes of ottomans, plush sheepskin throws on chairs, or tiered rolling carts. Minimalist bedside tables or geometric coffee tables seamlessly enhance the preppy aesthetic. 

These pieces provide functionality and contribute to the curated-over-time look synonymous with preppy style. Whether adding a pop of texture or a stylish accent, preppy furniture elements elevate your space with their timeless charm and understated elegance, creating a welcoming and inviting ambiance.

23. Wicker Furniture or Baskets 

Wicker furniture and baskets add a touch of coastal charm to an aesthetic preppy bedroom. Incorporate wicker chairs, side tables, or storage baskets to infuse your space with:

• Texture 

• Warmth

These versatile pieces complement a range of decor styles, from traditional to contemporary, and bring a sense of casual sophistication to any room. Whether indoors or on a sun-drenched porch, wicker furniture and baskets lend a relaxed yet refined vibe that epitomizes preppy style.

24. Wall Clipboard or Desk

A wall clipboard or desk adorned with stickers is a must-have accessory in your preppy room decor collection. Reminiscent of collegiate vibes, these items capture the essence of preppy style with their student-themed aesthetic, whether in a home office or kitchen.

Clipboard Decor

Use the clipboard to display notes or artwork, adding a touch of organization and personality to your decor. Decorate your desk with stickers that showcase your interests and passions, infusing the space with:

• Youthful energy 

• Charm

These items effortlessly evoke the collegiate atmosphere that defines preppy interiors.

25. Organic Textile Decor 

While boho interior style may seem contrary to preppy, we can still borrow some aspects. Elements of organic modern interior design, like nature-inspired shapes and organic textures, seamlessly blend with preppy aesthetics. Woven wall decor and textile rugs complement the preppy interior, adding warmth and texture. 

By incorporating these natural elements into preppy bedroom decor, we infuse the space with earthy charm, bridging the gap between two seemingly opposing styles for a harmonious and inviting ambiance.

26. Layering Blankets on the Bed 

Layering blankets on the bed is one of the quintessential preppy bedroom ideas. Don't hesitate to mix and match throws of:

• Different textures 

• Prints

Whether it's a cozy cable-knit throw, a classic tartan blanket, or a soft faux fur throw, layering adds depth to your bedding ensemble. Experiment with complementary colors and patterns to create a luxurious, inviting look that exudes preppy sophistication. With this simple yet stylish technique, you can easily elevate the comfort and style of your bedroom decor.

27. Сarpets, Сarpets, Сarpets 

Preppy bedroom decor is only complete with the perfect selection of carpets. Opt for plush, high-pile rugs in classic patterns like herringbone or geometric designs to add warmth and comfort to your space. Layer rugs for added texture, mixing contrasting styles like a sisal rug atop a luxurious wool carpet. 

Choose colors that complement your decor scheme, such as timeless navy blue, crisp white, or a bold tartan pattern.

29. Equestrian-themed Accessories 

Incorporating equestrian-themed accessories into your preppy bedroom decor adds a touch of:

• Classic sophistication 

• Charm

Consider adding stirrup-inspired hooks for hanging robes or towels or incorporating horse-bit accents into drawer pulls or lamp bases. These subtle nods to the equestrian world bring a sense of timeless elegance and refinement to your space, evoking the spirit of:

• Traditional English riding clubs 

• Country estates

30. Ivy League Banners and Sports Gear 

In a preppy bedroom decor scheme, Ivy League banners and sports gear are vital in capturing the essence of:

• Collegiate charm 

• Tradition

Adorn your walls with vintage-inspired Ivy League banners showcasing the emblems of prestigious universities. Display sports gear such as:

• Lacrosse sticks

• Tennis rackets

• Rowing oars as decorative accents infuse the space with athleticism and school spirit

31. Сhests and Suitcases with Travel Stickers

Incorporating chests and suitcases adorned with travel stickers into your preppy room interior adds a touch of:

• Vintage charm 

• Wanderlust appeal

These versatile pieces serve as both functional storage solutions and stylish decor accents. In kids' rooms, chests neatly organize toys, school books, or off-season clothing, while suitcases can double as unique nightstands in smaller spaces.

11 Preppy Bedroom Ideas to Create a Space That’s Energetic Yet Elevated

The preppy aesthetic balances youthful charm and timeless elegance, making it a smart choice for any bedroom in the house. A preppy bedroom is polished yet energetic, with plenty of personality. The look is fresh and approachable, so it’s no wonder it appeals to kids and adults.

1. Pattern Play

With pops of golden yellow, jade green, and cornflower blue, this bedroom doesn’t follow a typical preppy color palette but still has a polished, classic look. Relatively simple patterns—hints of floral textiles and large pinstripes on the bedframe, bring excitement into the space without overwhelming it.

2. Pale Palette

Preppy style can also look serene and delicate, as evidenced by this bedroom. Detailed light gray wallpaper brings dimension to the light-filled space, while two soft accent colors:

• Pale blue 

• Peach 

3. High Contrast

When it comes to preppy design, stripes are always a good idea. In this bedroom, a striped accent helps a black accent blanket harmonize well with a white bedspread. A collection of emerald green throw pillows add to the high-impact look.

4. Eclectic Touch

Black and white patterns and a pop of vivid teal blue give this bedroom a quirky twist, but it’s also a master class in balance. A modern white nightstand, white walls, and a white bedspread provide a perfect blank canvas for louder details.

5. Traditionally Sweet

This kids’ room gets its charm from its more traditional details, like its Oxford blue-striped:

• Headboards 

• Ruffle-edged shams

With more breezy details, like an abstract chandelier and a scalloped mirror, it’s a perfect blend of preppy and coastal cool.

6. Detail-Driven

If you go big on color and pattern, you can find balance in other ways, like opting for more pared-back silhouettes. That makes the simple wooden nightstand work so well in this vibrant bedroom.

7. Perfectly Coordinated

Here’s one easy rule of preppy style: Find your color palette and stick to it. That makes this bedroom work so well: pops of green and blue are tied perfectly together with a light yet intricate floral wallpaper.

8. Quirky Elegance

There may be a lot of patterns in this space, but they work together effortlessly, all staying in the same color families of blues and tans. 

When loading up on textures and prints on your bedspread, the key to finding balance is to pare back all the rest, cream-colored walls and drapes are the way to go. 

9. Dark Romantic

Here’s a reminder to never be afraid of black walls! A high-gloss paint makes this space bright, and preppy details like a striped headboard and monogrammed throw pillow balance the drama. Romantic touches, like floral textiles and an ornate chandelier, give it a romantic feel.

10. Simple Grid

Color and pattern are easy to make any space feel more intentional. Grid-patterned drapes and a hunter-green bedframe make an otherwise pared-back, neutral bedroom look dynamic.

11. Moody Cool

Dark green drapes, black walls, and a leopard-print throw pillow, these bold features play up the drama in this bedroom, while a classic tufted headboard and a framed duvet contrast with their more traditional looks.

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8 Preppy Room Secrets With a Modern Twist

1. Style Secret: Layered Patterns

Mixing patterns is a hallmark of preppy design. Plaid is the iconic print, but stripes, houndstooth, and gingham are equally at home in a preppy space. The key to mixing patterns is to pay attention to scale and palette; too many large-scale prints will overwhelm each other, and many small-scale ones can get lost. 

Colors don’t have to match but should stay in the same family. In this breakfast area, the basket-weave chairs complement the plaid banquette beautifully, offsetting the patterns with textural elements that enhance the visual depth.

2. Style Secret: Traditional Palettes

Preppy colors are strong and classic. The iconic color scheme is pink and green, à la Lilly Pulitzer apparel (a prep staple if ever there was one). But navy, red, pine green, mellow gold, and rich and leathery browns are equally appropriate. 

You don’t have to go overboard and drench a room in your chosen color scheme. In the bedroom above, a healthy dose of white balances the brilliant pink and soft green to make them feel more of the moment.

3. Style Secret: Classic Furnishings

Preppy furnishings hew to traditional profiles and time-honored materials. Think club chairs, Chesterfield sofas (especially in leather), and bamboo étagères. Authentic Oriental rugs and kilims dress the floors when not bare to showcase beautiful hardwoods. 

Freshen old-school furniture with a few newer pieces that retain a hint of the preppy look. The coffee table above wouldn’t be out of place in an industrial setting, yet its mellow patina feels right at home in a room full of gently worn counterparts.

4. Style Secret: Monograms

What’s preppy style without monograms? They pop up on everything from bed and bath linens to barware and throw pillows, a discreet (or not so discreet) mark of pride in one’s name and heritage. Give monograms a fresh spin with the following:

• Mod-looking fonts 

• Fun colors

• Monogramming unexpected objects

5. Style Secret: Nautical Accents

Boating is synonymous with the classic preppy lifestyle, so maritime touches are de rigueur. You can’t go wrong with nautical stripes, maps, or prints; just avoid overdoing it and ending up with an elaborate space. Preppy is never kitschy. 

Keep these accents simple and graphic. A display of framed nautical flags hung in a grid would lend an appealing graphic punch. Or focus on just a few simple, standout elements, such as the:

• Oar

• Rope knot 

• Model sailboat above

6. Style Secret: Trim and Rickrack

In preppy design, details matter. Trims, from grosgrain ribbon to piping to pom-poms, add a polished touch to upholstered furnishings, window treatments, and lampshades. The most important rule of thumb:

• Keep it tasteful

• Think plain and modest, not overblown and in-your-face

Limit the number of trims you incorporate into a single space to avoid fussiness. The dainty lamp above is balanced by sleeker accents in the same color family for a streamlined look. 

7. Style Secret: Vintage Accessories

Preppy homes artfully celebrate their hand-me-downs and family heirlooms:

• Old steamer trunks

• Vintage suitcases

• Whisper of a worldly, well-traveled lifestyle

Items hinting at the sporting life, such as old tennis racquets or riding gear, feel pitch-perfect. 

Layer in these objects judiciously to avoid a mishmash or an overly themed space. In the bedroom shown here, suitcases are stacked casually to stand in for a night table, and the clean, crisp look that defines the rest of the space allows them to shine.

8. Style Secret: Blue and White China

Blue and white China ginger jars, plates, and pitchers is a preppy mainstay. Whether it’s Delft or Blue Willow, it’s timeless enough to blend with virtually any palette and mix of furnishings. Instead of a traditional cluster of wall-hung plates or mass of jars on a mantel, arrange blue and white dishware more streamlined. 

Display it in an orderly grid, as in this dining space, or group just a few pieces on a tabletop or shelf.

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Dorm Room Decor Ideas For The Fall Semester

Color is everything when setting the preppy tone. Here are the top preppy room colors to consider: 

• Navy Blue and White: Classic preppy colors that scream elegance. They’re versatile and you can use them on everything from wall paint to furnishings. 

• Pink and Green: Pastel or hot pink combined with green creates a lively and youthful vibe. 

• Neutral Whites: Create a base that you can jazz up with preppy decor.

Big Preppy Room Decor for Walls: Think of Your Wall Space as a Blank Canvas

Wall space is like a blank canvas awaiting your creativity. Consider adding: 

• Wall art that depicts classic preppy motifs like stripes, plaids, or even animal motifs. 

• Preppy room pictures: frame images of preppy room aesthetic for inspiration. 

• Mirrors with ornate frames for a touch of vintage elegance.

Preppy Bed Ideas: Cozy Comfort is Key

• Ensure your sleeping area reflects the preppy aesthetic. 

• Consider pastel-colored bed linens, plush pillows, and a throw blanket in classic preppy colors. 

• Don’t forget the preppy dorm room inspiration of having monogrammed bed linens!

Furniture & Fixtures: Choose Timeless Pieces for Classic Appeal

Opt for timeless pieces that fit the preppy room design. For instance: 

• A white or navy blue desk chair. 

• Classic wooden bookshelves or cabinets in pastel shades. 

• Living room preppy sofas or armchairs in subtle prints.

Patterns and Textures: Signature Styles Define Preppy Decor

The preppy aesthetic is incomplete without signature patterns. 

• Stripes: Horizontal or vertical stripes, especially in navy blue and white, scream preppy. 

• Plaids and checks: A timeless design, perfect for bed linens, cushions, or wallpaper. 

• Florals: Muted tones or bright hues like hot pink florals add a beautiful, lively touch.
  
  
  

Tip: Mixing different patterns can be tricky but, when done right, can elevate the room's preppy vibe. Ensure the color palette remains consistent to avoid a clash.

Preppy Dorm Furniture Choices: Functional Style is a Must

Opt for furniture pieces that combine function with style: 

• Storage trunks: A vintage trunk at the foot of your bed can double as storage and a chic decor element.

• Mid-century dressers: Paint it in preppy colors like pastel pink or navy blue for a fresh look. 

• Accent chairs: Choose ones in plush materials with subtle patterns to complement the preppy aesthetic.

Lighting: Create an Inviting Ambiance 

Good lighting can transform the ambiance of any space:

• Table lamps: Opt for classic designs with porcelain bases in preppy motifs or colors.

• Fairy lights: Drape them around your bed or study area for a touch of whimsy.

• Chandeliers: If your budget allows, a chandelier can add luxury.

Rugs and Floorings: Don't Neglect Your Floor

Your floor deserves as much attention as your walls: 

• Oriental rugs: Classic, sophisticated, and very preppy. 

• Stripped rugs: Align with the preppy colors and warm your space.

Personal Collections: Showcase Your Unique Style

Make your room genuinely unique by showcasing personal collections:

• Books: Arrange by color or size on a bookshelf or bedside table.

• Travel souvenirs: Each piece tells a story, adding depth and intrigue to your decor. 

• Photos: Create a photo wall or place them in unique frames scattered throughout the room.

Incorporate Nature: Bring the Outside In

Nature always enhances any decor style:

• Plants: Whether it’s a tall potted plant, succulents on your study table, or fresh flowers, they add life to the room.

• Nature-inspired decor: Think seashells, driftwood, or even framed botanical prints

Fabrics and Drapery: Textiles Can Make or Break Your Design

Textiles play a vital role in enhancing the preppy aesthetic: 

• Curtains: Opt for lightweight, breezy materials in preppy colors or patterns. 

• Bed linens: As mentioned, stripes, plaids, or even monograms can amplify the preppy vibe.

Artifacts and Accessories: Pay Attention to Small Details

Small decor items can make a significant impact: 

• Clocks: Vintage or modern, but always in line with the preppy style. 

• Candles: Opt for ones in elegant holders or vintage candle stands. 

• Ornamental bowls or trays: Useful for keeping knick-knacks and adding a decorative touch.

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.