Style preppy

Initially in the United States, the word preppy meant the whole subculture, consisting of students of expensive private schools. These schools were called provatory schools(preparatory schools), as they were created to prepare students for admission to prestigious colleges and universities. From the word preparatory, the term preppy was formed.

Representatives of the preppy subculture were "goldenyouth ": they came from wealthy and influential families, that's why they showed their exceptional position in society with their kind, manners, behavior and way of life. Of course, thanks to the money of their parents, they could afford all the best, including the most expensive and quality clothes.

The preppy style began to develop in the 1940s - 1950syears. It originates from the clothes worn by students of prestigious Ivy League universities (both school uniforms, golf clothing, tennis and lacrosse - traditionally elite sports). Great contribution to the development of preppy style made such American brands as Brooks Brothers and J. Press. Modern clothing brands associated with the preppy style are Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, J. Crew and etc.

So, what is the preppy style? Simply put, this is something in between business style and smart casual. Despite the fact that in the style of preppy clearlybusiness style is visible (after all, it originates from the school uniform), it is more convenient for everyday wear. In addition, in this style bright colors, unusual accessories, original details of cut, which in business style would be out of place are welcomed.

Typical preppy attributes - it's sweaters and vests with a pattern in the form ofmulticolored vertical rhombuses (such an ornament is called argyle), Oxford shirts, chinos trousers made of cotton twill, polo shirts, blazers, club jackets, knitted jumpers, ties, knee socks and colorful tight pantyhose (for girls) and topsiders (modified moccasins created for wearing on the deck of yachts). And no synthetics - only quality natural fabrics (cotton, wool, cashmere).

Because preppy is a clothing style designed for everyday wear, shoes in this style are welcome. In addition to the above-mentioned topsiders, both men and womenwomen often wear moccasins, oxfords, losers, and women - also shoes-boats on a low and comfortable heel, ballet flats, boots with a high steady heel. Shoes should be made of leather or suede, no leatherette.

Accessories in the style of preppy - it's neat little jewelry,glasses, ties and neck scarves, ribbons and hair bands, belts made of genuine leather. Bags are either voluminous or monotonous small, without an abundance of decorative elements. The present preppy-chic is the family ornaments that have come from a mother or grandmother.

The preppy style does not welcome negligence: no peeping, brushed (evenwith justification "so conceived"). Jeans, by the way, are also not welcome. All clothes should be clean, neat, ironed. In general, for followers of the style of preppy is very important grooming: healthy skin, fresh breath, neat manicure, healthy, clean hair and a neat hair. For girls, natural make-up is preferable, guys should be clean-shaven.

Today, in the style of preppy dress up, not only representatives of the "golden youth." It is usually preferred teenagers and young people who want to look a little more serious and respectable, but they do not want to seem too grown-up and lose the charm of youth.

Clothing of classic preppy brands canafford not everyone, because one of the main features of the style is elitism, which means that the clothes of these brands will fly into a pretty penny. However, many youth brands offer enough democratic clothes in the style of preppy.