Clean and colorful, prep style is a staple around the world. And like with any type of style, there are certain brands that absolutely nail it.
We put together a list of our favorite preppy clothing brands so you can shop knowing you’re getting the best of the best.
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15 Best Preppy Brands in 2022
johnnie-O
johnnie-O takes everything we love about preppy style and has modernized it. Their shirts have a slim look that’s flattering across the board—even if you’re not so into prep style.
The defining characteristic of their shirts is their “inbetweener” button that sits between the second and third button at the neck. This allows you to get the perfect balance between a relaxed open-shirt look and avoid looking too stuffy with your shirt buttoned up to your neck.
johnnie-O is for guys who tend to dress more conservatively, but have a more relaxed, beachy style. If you’re the type of guy to hit the front nine before hanging ten, johnnie-O is right up your alley. The slightly-slim fit and soft fabrics will keep you comfortable while still being happy-hour appropriate.
If you’re the type of guy to hit the front nine before hanging ten, johnnie-O is right up your alley. The tailored fit and soft fabrics are comfortable while always being happy-hour appropriate.
Brooks Brothers
Every man of the preppy persuasion has heard of Brooks Brothers. And every man who wears clothes probably has as well.
Founded in 1818, Brooks Brothers is universally accepted as an iconic innovator of American style.
Brooks Brothers is an excellent brand for you if you want top-notch fabrics and a classic fit that accentuates your traditionally masculine features.
Luca Faloni
Luca Faloni is an Italian brand and a must-know for high end knitwear (which, you may know, is notoriously finicky).
A good quality sweater is an absolute prep-staple, and I recommend finding at least one that you love, because you’ll get a ton of use from it. In my mind, nobody does it better than Luca Faloni.
Perfect for business casual looks with chinos and a shirt, or for your free time paired with jeans. Given the insulating property of cashmere, you can wear it from autumn to spring.
Form & Thread
I can’t say enough about knitwear—it’s the key to a top-shelf wardrobe. Simple and understated, knitwear becomes the star of the outfit when the details are on point.
Another fantastic brand that embraces the preppy color palette is Form & Thread. While we’ve spoken volumes about our love of the shetland sweater, few do the style justice like Form & Thread.
Made with 100% Shetland lambswool, this slim fit sweater looks all kind of cozy, but dispenses with the added bulk.
Form & Thread
I can’t say enough about knitwear—it’s the key to a top-shelf wardrobe. Simple and understated, knitwear becomes the star of the outfit when the details are on point.
Another fantastic brand that embraces the preppy color palette is Form & Thread. While we’ve spoken volumes about our love of the shetland sweater, few do the style justice like Form & Thread.
Made with 100% Shetland lambswool, this slim fit sweater looks all kind of cozy, but dispenses with the added bulk.
Percival
Straight out of England, Percival has a wide variety of trousers and chinos (and in a ton of different fits). Whether you like a little more room throughout the leg, or you prefer a modern, slim fit, Percival has the answer.
While I recommend their trousers first, Percival also has an excellent range of overshirts, knitwear, and tees that are worth checking out.
A.P.C.
The preppy look may be classic, but that doesn’t mean it’s not open to re-imagination from time to time.
The French are believers in re-invention and the brand A.P.C. not only combines traditional aspects of the prepster look but introduces other interpretations as well.
Their clothes are more fitted and daring, staying true to the mantra in French style, while proving that preppy clothing can evolve over time and still maintain a distinct look that speaks volumes.
Pendleton
More than any other criteria involved in the definition of what qualities dictate the preppy look, authenticity is an absolute mandate for this aesthetic and only the most respectable brands delve to do it justice.
The Portland-based brand Pendleton has been around for over a century and show no signs of slowing down.
For a true look that effectively captures the prep look down to a T, Pendleton is one brand men can turn to that guarantees a finished product that is well worth the investment.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
L.L. Bean
For the ultimate in prepster apparel, one need look no further than heavyweight L.L. Bean.
The company is known worldwide for its signature pieces, many of which continue to make a significant impact on the prep aesthetic for men across several generations. The New England-based company draws heavily on American culture and history as inspiration to create their apparel, and that lineage has endeared them to those that look to encapsulate the modern, preppy look that speaks volumes.
For great quality and a reputation that precedes their years of immense efforts, L.L. Beans represents some of the best that can be found on the market today for the preppy man.
Ralph Lauren
While it’s arguably slipped into fashion normality in recent years, Ralph Lauren remains the quintessential king of men’s preppy brands on tradition alone.
It’s no secret that the Ralph Lauren empire takes style seriously, and with each successive collection over generations, they have only added to the allure attached to their prepster creations.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
J. Crew
By choosing style over substance every time, J. Crew has earned the respect of men worldwide for creating and maintaining a preppy look that is bold and innovative in its appeal.
From their sneakers to their sweaters and even their suits, the J. Crew brand is demonstrative of what the preppy look is all about.
J.Crew is still cutting edge with their fits. Their slim fit tech chino is modern but keeps that classic chino look and feel.
Burberry
As a British label that exudes class and distinction, Burberry puts a contemporary spin on the preppy aesthetic, with several of their pieces now considered classics.
Men that are searching for a look that speaks volumes without saying a word, Burberry is the brand to check out.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Lacoste
How could we leave out ‘the crocodile’?
As one of the leaders of the prep scene, French giant Lacoste has drawn legions of fans to its stable with its traditional, clean, and functional fashion offerings.
We love the classic white Europa when it comes to Lacoste:
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sperry
Sperry and boat shoes. They go together like prepsters and uh…boat shoes.
Paying homage to the seaside aesthetic, American clothier Sperry are yet another example of a preppy brand that has remained true to its roots.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Barbour
Although they create a great line of clothes that include trousers, shirts, and a host of accessories, Barbour’s wax jacket still stands tallest as its crowning jewel.
Add one of these to your wardrobe for ultimate prep versatility.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
M’Essential
No preppy style is complete without accessories, and since quality is the name of the game, I recommend leather all day every day. M’Essential hand crafts slim leather wallets and bags that are ideal for the office and dashing to your local coffee shop for a quick meeting.
Out on the Town
Game of croquet anyone?
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the preppy style, give this great guide a read.
FAQs
Is preppy still in style in 2022?
Yes, preppy style is classic. If you choose clothes with the right fit and pick high quality items, you’ll look fantastic.
Is the east coast preppy?
The east coast is traditionally more preppy than the west coast and the rest of the US.
