5 Preppy Trends the Fashion Crowd Is Very Into Right Now

by Caitlin Burnett

I've never considered my style to be preppy—I have a penchant for neutral colors and haven't worn a pleated skirt since my high school cheer squad. I've always admired preppy style from a distance, though, living vicariously through Gossip Girl school uniforms, but recently I've found myself saving countless Instagram outfit photos full of preppy elements. It seems like everywhere I look, I'm seeing fashion influencers across the globe sporting the preppiest trends you can think of but styling them in ways that feel as current as ever.

From exposed collars to sweater-vests to polo shirts, preppy elements can be found all over the fashion crowd in the coolest ways. The outfits I've found myself saving are those that pair preppy details with modern pieces, like chunky gold chains or loose jeans, to balance things out. Keep scrolling to see what I mean, as I've outlined the five preppy trends fashion people can't get enough of right now.

Photo:

@aysha.sow

Sweater-vests have made a bold comeback in the past few months, going from virtually extinct to one of the biggest trends on Instagram. Fashion people tend to be gravitating toward oversize sweater-vests, pairing them with miniskirts or jeans, or more fitted versions worn atop an oversize button-down.

H&M

Rib-Knit Sweater Vest

$20

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I love the oversize look of this one.

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Polo Knit Vest

$89

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Go full prep with this collared vest.

Photo:

@aimeesong

The fashion crowd has been all about the draped sweater for a while now, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. The beauty of it is the simplicity—throw a sweater over your shoulders with virtually any outfit, and you look instantly more polished and directional.

Mango

Ribbed Knit Sweater

$80

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The easiest way to add a pop of color.

Guess

Tanya Cable Crop Sweater

$79

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Talk about a color that goes with everything.

Photo:

@laurencrowe88

Once reserved for prep schools, the exposed collar is taking over the fashion world right now. You can find collars poking out of everything from collegiate sweatshirts to chunky cardigans to bold coats. It's one of those trends that are beyond easy to try out, and you most likely already have the pieces you need.

Astr the Label

Satin Button-Up Shirt

$62

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You can never have too many white button-downs.

Zara

Embroidered Peter Pan Collar Blouse

$46

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This collar detail will look so pretty peaking out of a sweater.

Photo:

@lefevrediary

Once reserved for tennis pros, the pleated skirt is having a moment right now. The mini length is perfect for springtime, and I'm loving the look of it paired with something more oversize on top for a nice balance.

H&M

Pleated Skirt

$40

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A black version feels like the easiest way to dip your toe in the pleated-skirt trend.

Mango

Pleat-Detail Check Skirt

$60

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You'll wear this far beyond spring.

Photo:

@tylynnnguyen

A polo shirt makes any outfit feel polished, whether it's jeans, trousers, or even sweats. This spring, the fashion crowd is opting for short-sleeve versions in brighter colors, and I can honestly say I'll be doing the same.