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We’re not wishing this glorious long summer away, but it will soon be time to put away our lighter layers and hang up our coats, chunky knits and trousers as the weather turns cooler.
And gents, if you know your wardrobe is about to start looking a little meh, that allows us to prescribe a healthy dose of preppy dressing as menswear is heading back to campus and the boring uniform is being left at the gates.
Preppy style is all about polished staples that give that Harvard, Oxford-inspired look we see in TV shows.
Forget looking like you’re about to resit your A-levels; this season it’s all about taking what we know and giving it a modern twist. Like a crisp shirt under a chunky jumper, chinos with loafers, a rugby shirt with light denim and a baseball cap. It’s one of those trends that works perfectly for autumn.
So, whether you’re ready to go full Ivy League or simply fancy adding a little polish to your everyday looks, consider preppy dressing your new autumn uniform.
Shop the best preppy-style wardrobe staples below:
Joules Cream Crew Neck Cotton Cable Knit Jumper
A cable-knit jumper is preppy-dressing 101, and this Joules version is a particularly good one to have in your autumnal wardrobe.
Layer it over a shirt, or a polo with the collar folded over to instantly nod to the trend and nail smart or casual dressing.
This is the definition of a wardrobe workhorse.
H&M Regular Fit Oxford Shirt
Few things say preppy quite like an Oxford shirt, and this H&M option shows you don’t have to spend a fortune to nail the look.
Wear it under a knit, cardigan, or blazer, or leave it untucked over chinos or denim for a more relaxed take.
Threadbare Elasticated Waist Chino Trousers in Light Stone
A preppy wardrobe won’t be complete without chinos.
They can be worn on repeat, serving as a key rotational item that can be restyled in countless ways.
The elasticated waist on this Threadbare option keeps the vibe cool and refined, as the neutral shade packs even more versatility.
Dr Martens Adrian Orlean Leather Tassel Loafers
As much as clothing plays a key part in embracing the trend, it’s also about the finishing touches, just like these loafers.
The brown leather, tassel detailing and chunky sole give them plenty of personality, while the £47 saving makes them even more tempting.
Levi’s Union Rugby Shirt
A rugby shirt is having a serious moment once again in the fashion world, so it only makes sense to get yourself one to have in your arsenal.
Levi’s has given the classic style a suitably relaxed edge with a combination of green, blue and white and contrasting stripes.
Go oversize for a more laidback approach.
River Island Blue Straight Fit Jeans
While chinos might be the preppy purist’s choice, denim is an easy way to make the trend feel more modern.
This classic blue straight-leg pair from River Island has the relaxed fit you want for autumn and will work with everything from loafers, boots or trainers.
Next Rust Orange Cosy Knit Long Sleeve Polo Shirt with Wool
Your autumn wardrobe doesn’t have to be all plain neutrals.
This rust orange knitted polo from Next is a brilliant addition to your wardrobe.
The collared neckline nods to the trend, while the cosy fabric makes it suited for cooler days that will take you through autumn and on to winter.
John Lewis Cotton Canvas Sail Bag
The ultimate finishing touch to an outfit? A tote bag.
This canvas sail bag from John Lewis has that classic, timeless college-meets-coastal feel, while the spacious design makes it practical enough for everyday use.
Primark Two-Tone NYC Embroidered Cap
A baseball cap might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you hear preppy, but that’s exactly why it works.
This two-tone Primark design brings a more relaxed, sporty edge to the aesthetic, while the embroidered NYC detail gives it that college feel.
And at £5, there’s very little to lose.
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