In today’s New York Times Style section, there’s an article about the so-called comeback of the preppy style. Although, depending on where you live, I argue that this style never really went away, especially for those of us who went to college preparatory schools and attended universities with strong Greek systems.The article focuses on how the all-American prepster style now has a strong Japanese influence, highlighting the 1965 book of photography, “Take Ivy,” by Teruyoshi Hayashida.
The article mentions a bevy of preppy brands, including Sperry, L.L. Bean, Brooks Brothers and even some I had forgotten, such as Woolrich. This made me smile. In high school, I had a tan Woolrich jacket lined in red and black tartan wool. I also carried my books in an L.L. Bean backpack and wore L.L. Bean moccasins. In addition to my bob haircut, an add-a-bead necklace adorned my neck, and my class ring – a signet, of course – was firmly in place on my right hand, exhibiting great pride in my all-girls school. Ah, the late 80s/early 90s. Weren’t those the days?
So, dear readers, what does preppy mean to you? Did it ever go out of style or has it constantly been evolving?
“Take Ivy,” by Teruyoshi Hayashida image courtesy of A Continuous Lean.
6 comments:
It never left us and never will. This winter I've been going through old photographs of my parents college and early years of marriage. Impeccable prep style!...but the funny thing I don't ever recall my parents calling it preppy.
I'm not sure I've every really left the style. I graduated high school in the 80's and went on to MSU where we were in the throws of preppy attire. I think it's kind of funny that my children are now wearing some of the same brands and style that I did growing up.
Jo
My preppy style has stayed with me since the early 80's. I have worn polo shirts with popped collars, penny loafers, madras plaid and twin sets for as long as I can remember. But preppy is more then just fashion, it is also a lifestyle.
I remember walking around with my Preppy Handbook -- how utterly upset I was to learn recently that it was spoof! She was mocking us! I loved my navy blue LLBean Norwegian sweater and my blucher mocassins and my fair isle sweaters! And I completely agree with Miss Madras... preppy is absolutely a way of life!
Preppy never went away... preppy and classic go hand in hand, and "classic" never goes out of style!
I think the name changed there for awhile...but the style was always there. I have worn the same style of clothing my entire life.
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