It can often be a bit of a minefield translating runway trends into wearable outfits. But sometimes, a trend arrives that has us thanking our lucky stars that we’ve invested in so many wardrobe staples. And this is exactly what has happened with winter’s preppy look. Why? Because it consists of classics including cardigans, white shirts, oversized blazers, mini skirts and comfy flats.

Miu Miu put the mini back on the map last year, and the style (pleated, in particular) is still going strong thanks to this new collegiate vibe that everyone is wearing. For autumn/winter 2023-2024, Valentino also made a case for shirts being worn with ties once again. And to confirm this style is sticking around through to spring/summer, Marni put V-neck knits over buttoned-up shirts, Miu Miu added oversized blazer over polo tops and Gucci had loafers on the catwalks. 

There’s no escaping this trend for 2024, and why would you want to when you can most likely recreate these effortlessly cool looks below using our existing wardrobe? Here are six grown-ups ways to give preppy pieces a go. 

Mix classic items with retro accessories

Notice the Kangol beret? Yep, the 90s favourite has made a surprising return thanks to Gen Z. Worn with coloured-lens aviators, Linda shows how adding throwback accessories to a classic roll neck, mini skirt and maxi coat look gives it a preppy twist. Note the 20-denier tights worn with ballet pumps, too. 

Add a tie to your classic white shirt

The uniformed shirt and tie have made a return, largely thanks to Valentino putting the duo on the autumn/winter runway. Now, many of the most stylish women on Instagram have been trying out the trend. It’s all about being smart and polished with the shirt buttoned up and tie perfectly done (unlike the days of an end-of-day scruffy school uniform). We love how Tamu has worn her shirt with a maxi coat to balance out the shorter mini skirt. 

Wear a T-shirt underneath a button-up cardigan

A cardigan worn as a top has been a mini trend for a while now, but the fresh way to wear your favourite knit is now over a white T-shirt or shirt. Giving that simple nod to the trend, Grece shows how to get it right by adding a checked midi skirt along with other key autumn/winter trends: a big bag, knee-high boots and black coat.

Belt your wide-leg trousers

This may be a very subtle way to tick off the preppy trend, but belting your baggy trousers gives them a whole new feel. Even more so if you tuck in your T-shirt and add a classic cardigan over the top just like Amy.

Opt for an oversized blazer 

Shirt? Tick. Tie? Tick. Pleated mini skirt? Tick. Knee-high socks with chunky loafers? Tick. It looks like Lara wins the award for the biggest fan of the preppy trend by wearing all the key pieces at once. And yes, she even completes the look with an oversized boxy blazer. If you want to try out the trend but not go for all of them at once, a loose-fit blazer is an easy way to try it out. 

Get suited and booted

When it comes to tailoring this season, 80s-style suiting is key. Fanny has added an oversized collar shirt to her baggy grey suit, worn with heels for a ‘means business’ office vibe that makes it feel preppy, yet so effortlessly cool with the skinny shades and chunky jewels. 

Images: Getty