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19 Perfectly Preppy Clothing Brands | Affordable to Designer

Celeste Renee host of A Better Way to Say podcast

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There are few styles more classic than preppy. The preppy brands below will help you create the polished, breezy looks you’re after.

Affordable 

J Crew

L.L.Bean

Everlane

Boden

Mango

Quince

Mid-Range

Ralph Lauren

Vineyard Vines

Brooks Brothers

Tommy Hilfiger

Sperry

Tuckernuck

High-End

Ted Baker

Sporty & Rich

Alex Mill

Lilly Pulitzer

Tory Burch

Draper James

Kate Spade

This post contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small commission when you shop, at no cost to you.

HOW I SELECTED THESE BRANDS

BUDGET

I aimed to provide a range of preppy fashion options here rather than focusing only on affordable or exclusively high-end stores. You’ll notice this list is split into three sections: affordable, mid-range, and designer options. You can see them all or scroll to the section that fits your budget.

PREPPY INFLUENCE

For help compiling this list, I turned to the style gurus who live and breathe this aesthetic. From Kelly in the City to Palm Beach Lately, I looked into wardrobes of dedicated preppy bloggers to uncover the brands that dominate their closets. 

ACCESSIBILITY 

Every brand on this list is readily available in the United States, ensuring easy access through online platforms. Many of these brands also offer in-store options, allowing you to experience their preppy collections firsthand.

AFFORDABLE PREPPY CLOTHING BRANDS

Timeless and collegiate-inspired looks are always in abundance at J Crew. This all-American brand effortlessly combines classic elegance with a modern twist, offering preppy essentials you can don all day. 

Dubbed by some as an “emporium of prepdom”, L.L. Bean is an obvious addition to this list of preppy brands. The brand is a staple in the Northeast from the ever-popular duck boots to the classic crewnecks. 

Known for its commitment to transparency, Everlane offers preppy staples like finely knit cardigans, timeless pinstriped dresses, and classic rugby shirts. Preppy staples, accessible price points, and ample options for men and women. Need I say more?

With its elegantly tailored blazers and playful yet chic dresses, British retailer Boden earns a spot on our list of preppy clothing brands. If you’re looking to inject some color into your wardrobe, you’ll love it here.

Get preppy style with a modern twist at Mango. You may have seen this Spanish-born brand on my list of stores like Zara but it deserves a nod for its array of preppy clothing essentials too. 

With a focus on timeless design and quality materials, Quince brings sophistication to your preppy wardrobe without the extravagant price tag. Find cashmere sweaters, leather loafers, and a medley of other preppy staples here. 

MID-RANGE PREPPY CLOTHING BRANDS

Ralph Lauren, the preppy brand that needs no introduction, stepped onto the scene in the late 60s with a collection of neckties. Now, the brand is synonymous with all-American fashion. Find clean-cut preppy essentials here. 

Like Ralph Lauren? You’ll enjoy these old money brands.

Vineyard Vines evokes images of vibrant colors, playful patterns, and a certain pastel-clad frat boy (you know the kind). But beyond that archetype, Vineyard Vines delivers on its preppy promise. Find loads of chic, coastal-coded pieces here.

Known for its tailored silhouettes and enduring classics, Brooks Brothers provides preppy essentials that stand the test of time. It’s a no-fuss, traditional brand that’s been shaping American Style since 1818.

Affectionately known as “The Fig” by devoted fans,  Tommy Hilfiger combines casual coolness with timeless staples. From the iconic red, white, and blue color palette to the timeless appeal of Hilfiger’s polo shirts, The Fig is a pillar of preppy style. 

No list of preppy brands is complete without a mention of Sperry. Find classic boat shoes here, perfect for those who seek a touch of seaside charm in their preppy wardrobe.

Tuckernuck is peak New England preppy. So it comes as no surprise to learn that the founder derived inspiration for the brand from her summer trips to Nantucket. Find perfectly polished dresses, tops, and accessories with a modern touch at Tuckernuck.

HIGH-END PREPPY CLOTHING BRANDS

Celebrated for its impeccable tailoring and distinctive designs, Ted Baker’s British charm has captivated many a fashion lover both abroad and here in the States. Browse her and you just may find your perfect piece. 

Bright white tennis skirts, cable-knit sweaters, and polos emblazoned with the brand’s circular logo point to the luxe aesthetic of this preppy athletic wear brand. Whether you’re skiing, jogging, or hitting the courts at your tennis club, you’ll look nonchalant and polished in S&R.

Striped sweaters, crisp Oxford tops, and (oh yes) corduroy pants make Alex Mill a hub for slightly academic everyday wear. This is what your preppy clothing store dreams are made of. 

Want more? Browse my list of brands like Madewell for similar classic styles.

Lilly Pulitzer, a high-end preppy brand renowned for its bold prints and resort-inspired chic. To me, LP feels very Palm-Beach-appropriate. From playful dresses to iconic shift designs, Lilly Pulitzer encapsulates joyful preppy fashion. 

Color lovers – browse a colorful capsule wardrobe for every season.

Tory Burch offers preppy essentials in a refined way. You’ll notice a decidedly colorful departure from the neutral palettes that have been dominating at the moment. If classic, sophisticated, and fun is enticing, it’s time to take a peek at Tory’s collections.

Experience the charm of Southern-inspired preppy fashion with Draper James, founded by Reese Witherspoon. Much like its founder, the brand is feminine, charming, and classically American. Odds are your new favorite summer dress is waiting here. 

If someone accuses preppy style of being boring, direct their attention to Kate Spade. Playful pieces are always in rotation here from spotted trousers to patterned floral dresses and, of course, the brands’ signature vibrant handbags. Explore a world of whimsical designs here.

PREPPY BRANDS FAQS

Brands like J.CrewL.L.Bean, and Banana Republic offer preppy classics at affordable price points.

EverlaneReformationFrank & Eileen, and UpWest all offer preppy staples and abide by sustainable practices.

Two great sources are preppy fashion bloggers and Pinterest. I recommend Kelly in the City, Atlantic Pacific, and Palm Beach Lately for impeccable preppy inspiration.

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March 4, 2024

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March 4, 2024

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