Not so Clueless: Nine new ways to wear American-style preppiness

Think collegiate classics with an air of athleisure, reworked for women who appreciate a Thom Browne catwalk moment. Oh, and not a golf course in sight.

Thu, 28 Aug, 2025 - 01:00

Annmarie O’Connor

The preppy aesthetic is entering its post-ironic era. This time, the vibe is less ‘Clueless homage’, more ‘self-aware sartorialist’.

Think collegiate classics with an air of athleisure, reworked for women who appreciate a Thom Browne catwalk moment. Oh, and not a golf course in sight.

The secret to pulling off preppy in 2025? Balance. Take Gant’s pinstripe varsity jacket. Strictly for the trend purists, this statement piece instantly reimagines simple separates.

That said, & Other Stories’ wool double jacket (currently on my Pinterest board) offers the same value-add without committing to the bit. Plus, its blank canvas allows for subtle styling that won’t verge on cosplay.

Likewise, Varley’s ‘Avika’ argyle vest (your new everyday essential) nods to tradition but feels refreshingly modern when paired with Arket’s wide turn-up jeans.

Layer with a shirt and tie from Essentiel Antwerp and watch the look totally transform. Don’t forget to add chunky leather loafers like those from & Other Stories. Their combination of heritage and heft makes them a win for city streets and school runs.

Prefer some tongue-in-cheek chic? Use accessories to up the ante.

Consider argyle ankle socks with a corporate suit (that Q3 report just got interesting) or stash your essentials in The Satchel by Cambridge Satchel—a grown-up school bag for grown-ups who prefer writing in a leather notebook to a smartphone app.

The key to mastering preppy? Simple: it’s not about perfection. It’s about looking smart without trying to look like you care. And in Ireland, that’s basically a national sport.

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