Preppy style: menswear essentials for 2025

Always a winner, the preppy look is made up of high-performing wardrobe staples, such as button-down shirts, cable-knit sweaters and loafers. Worn in combination, or used to put a collegiate-style spin on other pieces, these are the timeless designs you'll return to every season.

Originally inspired by the style staples of the well-to-do college students attending Ivy League preparatory schools in 1950s America, the preppy aesthetic has enduring appeal. Revolving around a selection of basics – rugby shirts, chinos and loafers, to name but a few – when layered well, this style is more versatile (and playful) than you might expect.

Earn your style stripes with a shirt that features a button-down collar. Simple? Perhaps. But paired with chinos, jeans or even shorts, it's an effortless way to perfect preppy style.

Whether you play the sport or not, prop up your preppy wardrobe with a rugby shirt. Worn at the pitch or the pub, this relaxed look has become the ultimate off-duty weekend look.

A foundational piece in the prep-star wardrobe, the cotton cable-knit goes with everything; as the king of preppiness, Ralph Lauren’s design is the one to beat. 

Wear this sleeveless wonder over a shirt or T-shirt for the ultimate prep-star look – the chunkier the knit, the better. Similarly, buttoned-down styles and cardigans can be applied to achieve this classic college aesthetic.

You can't put a foot wrong if you plump for these shoes: a soft, leather loafer is the epitome of preppy style. Team navy or tan designs with straight-leg jeans and you're set.

When has the baseball cap ever not been in style? Choose one in 2025's favourite neutrals though, and you'll hit it out of the park. Preppy points scored.  

If your shorts game needs a preppy refresh, this is what we suggest: keep things simple with block colours that can be worn with everything. Specifically, shades of navy, cream, dusky pink or camel.  

Embrace nostalgia with the college look's quintessential top layer: a varsity jacket. Layered over knitwear or stripes, options with appliquéd letterman details and stand-out collars work well.