Nostalgists for authentic ‘80s trends swoon over plaid worn with heavy stockings, headbands and oversized sweaters. Coming off a year when emojis starred in their own movie, loud prints and monograms, symbols of prep style, seems quaint.
Elements of a preppy’s life.
The 1980’s saw the rise of spiked hair, slashed shirts and shoulder pads but there was also a sophisticated side to the decade, embodied in preppies, a word originating from prep school.
Pearls, plaid and a monogrammed jewelry case from Marley Lilly.
Traditional pieces and prints, such as tote bags, plaids and aviators, still hold today and are available from such venerable companies as L.L. Bean to newer outfitters like Smathers & Branson. Here, we round up classic prep pieces that endure.
Preppy palettes transition from navy and hunter green to bright pastels.
Classic Prep Pieces: Enduring Style
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- 1. Land’s End tote
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- 2. Gretchen Scott pareo
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- 3. Sperry slip ons
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- 4. Marley Lilly hat
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- 5. Argyle socks
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- 6. Bass Weejuns
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- 7. Bermuda bag
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- 8. Monica Richkosann bracelet
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- 9. Plaid headband
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- 10. L.L. Bean duck boot
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- 11. Woolrich blanket
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- 12. Smathers & Branson key fob
- Seagrass tote 2. Pareo 3. Gray Marlin slip ons 4. Pom pom sun hat 5. Argyle socks 6. Loafers 7. Pink Giraffe bag 8. Charm bracelet 9. Headband 10. Duck boots 11. Freedom throw blanket 12. Key fob
