The Preppy Handblog

Hurricane-spiration

2011-08-27T16:02:00.005-04:00

So students just got evacuated from the College of William & Mary on Thursday afternoon because of Hurricane Irene, which leaves me boarding at my roommate's house (which we lovingly refer to as "the Burrow") in Richmond. The storm is currently upon us, and all I hear over the chit-chat with my roommates is the whipping wind and buckets of rain. I figured the perfect rainy day activity (as long as there's power) would be to do a post of completely random images that I'm loving right now. Here it goes, and stay safe during the storm!

Marie Antoinette-themed plates at Anthropologie

Art-deco tortoise and rhinestone necklace from J.Crew

My roommates (from left) Hannah, Erin, and I photographed in the Richmond paper while evacuating the College

Jack Wills Winthrop Sequin Dress

Eloise's room at the Plaza in NYC (which happens to look a lot like my dorm room will in a few weeks...)

Delta Gamma sisters in the 1960s

Can Hair Feathers Be Preppy?

2011-08-15T20:02:00.006-04:00

Yes, I've decided to blog about the controversy that is feather hair extensions. And yes, I have them. I got them earlier this summer on a whim (though they can get a bit pricey)- a skinny royal purple and a slightly thicker lavender. Right after I got home from Nantucket, they started to slide down my hair so I just took them out. But today I just couldn't resist- after I got my hair cut and highlighted I had them- and a third striped purple feather- put back in (for free this time!). I also invested a dollar in five more beads so if they slide out I can fix them myself with my jewelry plier. But how on earth could these uber-boho accessories ever look good with a crisp blazer and riding boots? Well, I think that's just it- the mix of boho and preppy just works. This combo obviously doesn't work in all cases (I wouldn't advise wearing a polo pony-emblazoned cable knit sweater over a hippie maxi skirt, for instance), but in the case of a few feathers, I think it goes.
The feather trend, unlike classic preppy clothes, should definitely be reserved strictly to the younger set (i.e. twenty-somethings and below), and it's that young vibe that makes it okay to wear them with an oxford shirt. Obviously, the more neutral the colors, the more versatile they are. My purple ones are definitely a little more out-there, but a brown or beige feather makes me think of Ralph Lauern's iconic "Santa Fe" collection, right. And was that not the original morph of preppy and, well, not?
So if you decide to don these hair feathers, here are my top tips:
1. Pick your color(s) wisely. If you decide to go with a brighter color, keep the feathers all in the same family (shades of purple, as opposed to a purple, pink, and blue).
2. Make sure they're appropriately placed in your hair. If you have a job or have some upcoming interviews, sticking the feathers right in the front of your head is probably not the best idea. Try placing them underneath so they peek out for a pop of color.
3. Buy extra beads and a jewelry plier. In case they slide out and you want to put them back in, pick up a few crimp-able beads and a plier at your local hair supply store so you can avoid going back to the salon.
4. Have fun with them! The best thing about being young is that you don't have to take fashion- even preppy fashion- too seriously. Make preppy cool again with unexpected touches, like these feathers.

Time Flies

2011-08-12T16:37:00.009-04:00

Afternoon, prepsters! Get ready for a plethora of preppiness to get you ready for back-to-school. I only have a week left in merry ol' New England til I hit Williamsburg, so I've been trying to pack, order books, and get in a few last days of tanning outside before I'm caught up with classes and such. First off, I would like to comment on Ralph Lauren's new line, Denim & Supply. Looking through the fall collection online, I am reminded very much of Ralph's Rugby line. Denim & Supply is definitely more utilitarian and all-American (while Rugby is more classic with more British-y tailoring), but it is pretty similar- except in price. D&S is definitely at a lower price point, which might mean Rugby taking a hit in sales. I hope that's not true because I really love Rugby, but I could definitely see that happening.

The Rugby dress, left, is definitely more feminine with the lace sleeve and more flouncy skirt, but is it similar enough to the Denim & Supply look, right, to be interchangeable?

Next, let's talk about how in love I am with the new Jack Wills fall line. Two words: tweed blazers. I love them. All of them. Fortunately I just picked one up at their New Haven location on sale a few weeks ago (it was over $100 off the original price!). Mine is a simple brown herringbone tweed, with unexpected yet oh-so-JW touches like pink and blue striped silk lining and pink wool when you pop the collar (which, in case anyone was wondering, I will definitely be doing). I plan on wearing it with everything this fall, from dresses to sweaters and jeans. My other top picks from the back-to-school collection? The appropriately-colored pink and navy Calverly Wool Scarf and the gorgeous Winthrop Sequin Dress, which I've already decided I'll be sporting at my 21st birthday celebration in January, regardless of where I am.

Finally, I'd like to end with a note on my trip to Nantucket last week. I had a great time hitting the beaches and the shops and got to meet JW Seasonnaire Red Rainey at the store (where I bought a black floral dress from their summer line and a cute keychain). I also hit up the Lilly Pultizer "Midnight Madness" sale (which actually started at 11 am, not midnight) and picked up (for unreal prices) both a casual maxi in pink and green and a jeweled mini dress that I'm going to wear to Delta Gamma formal next spring. The rest of the trip consisted of a lot of Juice Bar (Watermelon Cremes to be exact), picture-taking in 'Sconset, and redoing the stickers on my laptop case with classic Nantucket ones from The Hub as well as a Something Natural flower and a Vineyard Vines whale. Now that my summer vacation is pretty much over, it's back to the old grind in a week and a half. In between bio, physics, and chem and my new position as Fashion & Beauty Editor at Her Campus W&M, I'll still be posting all about my preppy escapades, so keep checking back!

From left: my brother, me, and my cousin at Sankaty Lighthouse in Siasconset, Nantucket.

Fog Happens

2011-07-29T14:33:00.000-04:00

With my Nantucket getaway a short three days away, I've been running around after work trying to figure out what to pack. Oh, how I miss the days when I would pack my little duffel for the next year's trip the day after I got home (granted all I had to worry about were little toys and a notebook and colored pencils). This year, I am a bit behind- I usually have a whole checklist typed out of outfits, bathing suits, accessories, and other essentials I plan on taking. I do think my wardrobe is coming together, with the help of Nantucket vacation-worthy finishing touches.

1. Essie nail polish in Mint Candy Apple

I'm literally obsessed with this color (it's definitely the new Lilacism). I saw it while catching up on one of my favorite blogs Cupcakes and Cashmere, and I ran to the mall after work today to pick it up (we have a store that literally has every Essie polish). The best way to describe it is a slightly paler, slightly greener version of a Tiffany box (which should already be up there on every girl's favorite colors list). I'm thinking of doing this shade on my fingers with a neon orangey-pink on my toes to give a fresh, young vibe to the ever-so-preppy outfits I'll be donning in ACK.

2. Big straw bow hat

This is by far my favorite straw hat I own. It was my mom's in the eighties or nineties but I have since commandeered the topper, and wore it most recently to the Brimfield Antique Show in Massachusetts two weekends ago. The oversize bow on the back makes the hat playful and not so up-tight as a lot of more conservatively-styled hats appear. This hat will make it everywhere from the beach to church on Sunday, I'm sure.

3. Jack Wills hoodie

The perfect thing to throw on when you're chilly on the ferry or walking around downtown. Of course the majority of people will be wearing their Nantucket sweatshirts courtesy of The Sunken Ship or one of the other Island gear shops, but the JW hoodies are just too fun (and super soft). Hit up Jack Wills on South Water St. if you're on the Island!

4. Nantucket Conservation bracelet

A common accessory seen on Nantucket, proceeds from the purchase of this bracelet go to the Nantucket Conservation Foundation. It's a chic bracelet with a great cause that helps to protect the fragile ecology of Nantucket Island.

It's almost time for me to set sail from the Cape to the Grey Lady! See you in a week, prepsters, with details of my Island adventures!

Preppy on the Brain

2011-07-10T19:03:00.004-04:00

William's polo team winning in Santa Barbara yesterday (while wearing Jack Wills polos, no less).

High top-knots can look chic from the beach to the office.

Chunky jeweled necklaces with oxford shirts add glamour to a classic preppy staple.

Kate Spade's "Cheers" necklace adds the perfect touch of chivalry to any ensemble.

Neon party decorations, courtesy of Martha Stewart.

Nantucket Magazine's Gatsby-Inspired Shoot

2011-07-04T20:49:00.002-04:00

Images via Nantucket Magazine

Sorry, BRB, G2GPS

2011-06-22T19:52:00.005-04:00

As if things couldn't get any preppier, now even text and IM abbrevs are getting their dose of WASPy-ness. True Prep, the 21st century spin-off of the original Preppy Handbook, now has a jewelry collection featured online. The pieces include a crest-emblazoned gold medallion on a leather cord bracelet, a silver necklace boasting engraved riding boots, and, admittedly my favorite part, rubber abbreviation bracelets. Ever want to show your best friend some appreciation? Give her the ILYLAAS (I love you like an argyle sweater) cuff. Tired of that prep school uniform you have to wear everyday (or had to, for those of us who have since graduated from the uni)? Wear you heart on your sleeve and proclaim your disdain with the IHTU (I hate the uniform) bracelet. Do you constantly get cornered by friends and foes alike right when you're in a hurry? Tell them you're sorry, but you G2GPS (got to go play squash). And at prices of only $10 for the abbreviation bracelets and $28 for the more traditional pieces, these are definitely the PPOTM (preppy pieces of the moment).

The Best Of: Jack Wills Varsity Polo 2011

2011-06-14T20:32:00.005-04:00

Every June I anticipate the day that the Jack Wills crew puts up the Varsity Polo pictures on Flickr. This year did not disappoint; in fact it did quite the opposite. I decided to post my favorite shots with comments and then compile a "get the look" list for those of you who, like me, yearn to stomp the divots at JW Polo.

Love the aviators, sweet smiles, and chunky men's-inspired watch and neon nail polish on the girl in the middle.

Aviators again (looks like the of-the-moment shade)! I also love the micro-minidresses with more menswear-y pieces like blazers, fedoras, and structured leather shoulder bags.

Florals, lace, and open knits all look great with denim jackets and a jolt of color.

The girl in the middle has such effortless style- I love the lace tee.

Liberty print florals and tweed- a match made in Jack Wills heaven.

This photo is like the epitome of fun- everything from the flower chain headband to the swirly straw in the mini champagne bottle is so wonderfully carefree. Preppy can be a little undone yet still be prim and proper (the party girls are still in their blazers!). I love the simple bow sandals and the bright Wellies in the middle and to the left, respectively, as well. Bonus points to the brunette girl who seemed to share a brainwave with me this past weekend and wore a white eyelet dress under a blue blazer (right)!

And congrats to Yale for beating Harvard (gotta have home state pride)!

Get the look:
- Aviators
- Lace tees
- Menswear touches
- Short dresses
- Liberty prints
- Blazers- from heavy tweed to lightweight linen
- Chunky watches
- Headgear (aka floral headbands or fedoras)
- Effortless straight or wavy hair and simple makeup

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

2011-06-12T14:39:00.006-04:00

The latest on my wishlist of things I'm currently coveting or recently purchased.

1. Michael Kors stainless steel watch

I absolutely love this thing! I just bought it last night (bye bye, paycheck) and it's so timeless yet modern. The chunky size and big face makes it a bit like a men's watch, but the classy Roman numerals and white face keep it feminine and fresh. I know it was expensive, but I'll definitely be wearing this for years to come so it was worth it. Michael has a bunch of other great watches, including a clear one that's a bit more trendy but still classic.

2. J.Crew neon gingham oxford and white chino shorts
My new favorite outfit by far. Neon is very of-the-moment, brightening up preppy basics like oxford shirts. The gingham lends a more whimsical feel to the shirt as well. The white shorts are the classic J.Crew 3" inseam ones that they have every summer, and I love them. I have them in three other solids and two prints, and they are a great-looking short.

3. Quatrefoil jewelry

I'm obsessed with anything quatrefoil-shaped lately. I have a pair of mother-of-pearl and sterling silver chandelier earrings with two quatrefoils and they have become my go-to earring this summer. I also just purchased a simple gold bracelet with a single diamond-studded quatrefoil in the center at T.J. Maxx for $20 and I haven't taken it off since.

4. Straw fedoras
I just got one of these from one of those cheap accessory stores in my local mall. I have yet to wear it, but I'm sure it'll be making it to the beach at least. They're another more trendy item, but with a sundress and wedges or an oxford and jeans they can add just the right amount of flair.

5. Lilly Pulitzer "Daphne" dress

This dress/print combo is SO adorable. The blues and white are crisp, and the shell- and anchor-adorned print is perfectly summery (and Delta Gamma-y). The beaded placket on the front adds sparkle, taking this dress from a daytime soiree to a nighttime party. This will definitely be my Nantucket Lilly purchase this year!

That's So Collegiate

2011-06-04T19:14:00.002-04:00

Never think Lilly would go to a frat party? Think again! Lilly Pulitzer has just come out with a new summer print adorned with typical college-y things such as playing cards, Sperrys, ping pong balls and paddles, and, yes, the infamous Solo cup. How on earth could those things be made into a cute, preppy print suitable for a sundress, you may ask. Well, the print geniuses over at Lilly have made it happen by keeping the print simple and fresh so you don't have to be afraid to return to your college roots this summer while dining out in Nantucket.

Surfin' USA

2011-06-02T17:37:00.002-04:00

In between jobs, internships, and summer classes, there has to be time left over for some fun in the sun. And where better to spend that time than at the beach lounging on the sand and cooling off in the ocean? That's what I'll be doing on Friday (weather-permitting), and I can't wait to break out my new suit and get a nice golden glow to start off summer. My bathing suit obsession this summer is definitely the preppy suit (so luckily I can blog about it here). Despite my recent purchase of a tie-dye Lucky Brand bandeau bikini (if it makes any difference, it is pink and green), I'm all for stripes and mix-and-match Lilly tops and bottoms. In keeping with the all-American theme of this past weekend (and all-American is very preppy- hello, Ralph Lauren!), I bought the infamous Old Navy triangle-top bikini on which one half is navy with white stars and the other is red and white stripes. For only $10 (yay sales and coupons), it'll look pretty cute for the 4th of July. Personally I'm more of a bandeau fan as opposed to a triangle top, but brands like Jack Wills let you decide which top you prefer. Mix-and-match capabilities are great, because they let you pick which top and bottom, plus hardly anyone is the same size in both. This brings me to my most-coveted bathing suit of summer 2011: the mismatched Lilly Pulitzer. I love the idea of a print and a solid, and what better way to sport that than with a solid-color bikini top (save cash and grab one at Target) and a printed Lilly bottom (you need the real deal for this one). Simply adorable!

Beach cover-ups and accessories are also vital parts of any preppy beach-goer's attire. Preps from the Cape to Palm Beach sport a range of cover-ups, from Lilly or Tory Burch caftans to local t-shirts and denim cut-offs. I usually aim for the middle of this spectrum and go for a J.Crew cotton cover-up. Tote-wise, I'm a fan of my tried-and-true J.Crew straw tote with the metallic handle, but Sea Bags and LL Bean boat totes work just as well. Straw hats or head scarves are great to protect your face and hair from the harsh sun, but keep any jewelry to a minimum unless you want an odd tan line or you're one of those die-hard New Englanders who wears a Nantucket rope bracelet all summer long (of which I may or may not be guilty). This proves that you can have your tan and look good too, just don't forget your sunscreen (as an aspiring dermatologist I feel morally obligated to say this)!

One final note from your Jack Wills William & Mary Seasonnaire (aka me): be sure to check out Jack's Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard stores if you're on the Islands this summer (see you on ACK in August, Jack!) and if not, pay a visit to the Boston flagship or one of this summer's new stores in New Haven, CT, Southampton, NY, Newport, RI (all recently opened), and Charlottesville, VA (coming soon)!

Jack Wills's Best Summer Job in America

2011-05-31T17:16:00.008-04:00

This summer, Jack Wills will be searching for one US college student to be part of the Best Summer Job in America. The person chosen for this role will be shipped off to Nantucket in peak season to live and work with our Nantucket Store Seasonnaire, Red Rainey. Parties, days on the beach, and nights in town will take up most of their time as they help to make Jack Wills Nantucket the best store on the Island. When the winner of the ‘Best Summer Job in America’ isn’t representing Jack Wills on the Nantucket beaches they will be flown around to some of the other seasonal locations including Newport, Southampton and Martha’s Vineyard, as well as taking part in two huge Jack Wills summer events- one in the UK and one in LA. And here’s the kicker- they will receive $20,000 towards their next semester’s tuition fees!

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me! Apply by June 20th on the Jack Wills Facebook page by filling out the application and submitting a 60-second video explaining why you should be chosen. Good luck, prepsters!

Lazy Days

2011-05-20T13:06:00.008-04:00

Since getting home from college a week ago, my laziness has definitely taken over. At school I'm always put-together for class and meetings, but during this two-week hiatus between school ending and work starting, I've literally been doing nothing but shopping, lunching, and catching up on Gossip Girl and The Real Housewives. Last Saturday I went to the Jack Wills New Haven store launch party and had a great time- the store looks fabulous and I couldn't leave without buying the liberty print Larkhill dress and a coordinating pink and navy striped belt. The early part of this week I spent putting away all (emphasis on "all") of my clothes, which I'm still finishing up before my weekend trip to Bucknell to watch my cousin's graduation. But yesterday's trip to New Canaan (while wearing simply a J.Crew denim shirtdress, Rugby leather belt, and plain leather sandals) was what inspired me to keep this no-frills lifestyle going all summer; after all, summer is all about relaxation. After my purchase of Nantucket reds skinny chinos at Rugby and my delicious lunch of an open-faced turkey, avocado, and tomato vinagrette sandwich on wheat at Le Pain Quotidien, I decided to keep this effortless look going all summer, starting this weekend.

As I attempt to pack, I'm just pulling clothes that can take me from event to event with little modification (though I'm sure my old ways will creep back in and I'll end up wearing five or six outfits over the course of three days). My Nantucket reds chinos are my favorite item at the moment, and they'll be perfect for the evening barbecue tomorrow with my navy anchor-printed JW Tithby top and sandals by my other favorite Jack (Rogers, that is). Lilly will have to make an appearance for the ceremony itself, but I'm thinking of throwing on a more casual sundress for the afternoon and dinner Sunday night.

The key, I've found, to effortless dressing is to try to steer clear of being too matchy-matchy. The nouveau-prep is not one of perfectly pleated pants, a matching blazer, and a crisp shirt. Sun-bleached chinos and a slightly wrinkled oxford are much more modern. So give your iron a rest (at least on the weekends) and sit back and relax. And maybe enjoy a buttered lobster roll or some fried clams while you're at it.

"Summer" is a Verb

2011-04-20T22:40:00.007-04:00

It's officially one week until the last day of classes (appropriately dubbed by W&M students as "Blowout") and the royal wedding (hello, 4 am wake-up call!), which can only mean one thing: summer is on my mind. I keep getting bursts of excitement for sun, sand, and working (yay?) in between the bursts of fear I suffer from thanks to my looming final exams. Thankfully I think the prospect of summer will be enough to carry me through the next few weeks of constant studying and complaining with my classmates. To kickoff the best season of the year, here is my top three things I'm excited for upon my return to Connecticut from good old Virginia.

1. More Jack Wills stores!

The British are coming, and not just to Massachusetts anymore. Thanks to my inside scoop from JW and Women's Wear Daily, I've been getting pumped for the New Haven, CT, Newport, RI, and Southampton, NY stores opening in May and the Charlottesville, VA store in June. New Haven is dangerously close to my homebase, so I'm sure I'll be frequenting the store quite often this summer on my days off of work when the weather's not good enough to hit up Compo Beach in Westport (the JW Westport store doesn't open til later this year). And of course, I'll be hitting one of the original US stores in Nantucket when I'm there in early August. Luckily, I already have my wishlist picked out (including the liberty print Larkhill dress).

2. Polo matches.

Jack Wills Varsity Polo in June is such an awesome event, even from watching it on my laptop across the Pond. Hopefully I'll get to go to a polo match in person again this summer in Greenwich with some friends (and hopefully it doesn't randomly thunderstorm in the middle of the match like last year). Getting dolled up in floppy hats and sundresses is pretty much a favorite summer pastime of mine, so I'll be jumping at the opportunity to watch some polo.

3. Beachy luxury.

I don't think I've ever looked forward to going to the beach as much as I have been recently. There's just something so glamorous and preppy about walking onto the sand with your Jack Rogers in one hand and your Vineyard Vines beach tote slung over your shoulder. But bathing suits and beach blankets aside, I'm loving walks on the beach at sunset (don't care that this is the cheesiest thing ever) and even glam dinners where the surf meets the sand. The idea of wearing a Lilly maxi dress with some chunky statement jewelry while dining on the beach is just too fabulous for words. Floppy straw hat not optional (this classic one is from J.Crew).

(Jack) Wills & Kate

2011-03-11T15:29:00.003-05:00

As both a Jack Wills seasonnaire and a know-it-all of all things royal wedding-related, it should come as no surprise that I've discovered the limited edition Jack Wills royal wedding commemorative mugs. A witty play on words allows the mug to boast both the names of the brand and Britain's most talked-about couple. Looks like I know what I'll be drinking my morning tea out of while watching the ceremony! Cheers!

A Prep's Guide to Spring Break

2011-03-08T13:54:00.009-05:00

With spring break 2011 just around the corner (or happening now for those of us at early bird schools like William & Mary), you're either going to one of two places: a warm destination with your best friends to have some fun in the sun and return to campus tan, or home to melting snow and mud with temperatures barely hitting 50 (I still love you, New England). Either way, spring break is spring break and the only thing on everyone's mind is rising temperatures and breaking out the sundresses and chino shorts. Here is my list of current obsessions for the upcoming sunshiny days.

1. A cool carry-all:

Just as perfect for toting a towel and sunscreen to the beach as for holding your wallet, camera, lip gloss, and a sweater, a tote is a spring necessity. I'm partial to the anchor on this one from Sea Bags (yeah, Delta Gamma!) but they also make totes with numbers, stripes, or a lobster claw out of recycled sails- it really doesn't get much more nautical than that! Other cute totes I'm loving are Lilly Pulitzer, Rugby, and, the New England classic, Vineyard Vines.

2. Preppy technology:

I'm DYING to get my iPhone when I'm due for an upgrade in April, but in the meantime I've been thinking of ways to make my phone scream me. Thankfully I had to look no further than Lilly yet again for the cutest iPhone cover ever. They also have iPad covers, laptop bags, and more. I just can't wait for people to roll their eyes followed by a "you would" when I finally have my iPhone, complete with Lilly cover.

3. Neon (yes, neon):

Usually pastels come to mind before highlighter shades when someone mentions preppy attire. Nantucket Reds and powder blues aren't going anywhere, but the young set of prepsters are sporting more vibrant hues with their polos and Sperrys these days. Thanks to brands like Jack Wills, jolts of glowing colors are showing up on everything from dresses to underwear (party pants, anyone?). Jack's "Butterton" dress is the perfect mix of classic and cool, with shocking pink stripes placed next to crisp white on a flouncy mini dress. J.Crew is also hopping on the neon train, boasting surprise neon details like zippers on unexpected pieces like floral skirts. Just be careful not to go overboard with the brightness- too much will look too costume-y. Subtle touches like nail polish (I'm loving lime at the moment) can also be an easy way to incorporate this trend without looking like you're searching for a textbook to highlight.

4. Frat glasses:

Yeah, they're cheesy and you might get yelled at for not wearing your real Wayfarers you begged for last Christmas. But they're perfect for the beach (you don't want your real Ray Bans to get all sandy) and they double as advertising for whatever organization or company stuck their logo on the side.

5. The Royal Wedding

I CANNOT wait. Yes, I will be waking up at 5 am on April 29th to watch William and Kate get married live, followed by a day of absolute nonsense since it's Blowout (William & Mary's infamous last day of classes that's basically a 24-hour-long party). I already have my outfit picked out (a floral frock adorned with English roses) so the anticipation is already heightened!

So whether you're in Cancun or Connecticut, warm weather is on it's way. Happy spring break!

Spring Ahead

2011-02-28T13:57:00.000-05:00

People, Parties, Party Pants

2011-02-22T15:25:00.003-05:00

Lifestyle. That was the key word when I was on my amazing excursion to Rockland, Maine a few weeks ago for the National Tobogganing Championships with my fellow Jack Wills university seasonnaires. And it's a pretty fabulous lifestyle to say the least- the preppy clothes only scratch the surface. A preppy lifestyle embraces the location, the parties, the people, in addition to the self. A carefree outlook paired with prim and proper attire and a bit of a knack for knowing how to have fun is what quintessential prep, more specifically, Jack Wills, is.

Jack Wills National Tobogganing Championships

2011-02-15T15:23:00.003-05:00

Love the JW Seasonnaires!

Anchors Aweigh

2011-01-26T22:45:00.002-05:00

Now that the wools and tartans have been put away until the next holiday season, it's time to start thinking spring. Even though it's only January, the first few months of the year is the time when the snow (hopefully) starts to melt and boat shoes start to get favored over Bean boots once again. And why not keep the theme going by donning some nautical gear to keep your spirits up before the first flowers of spring bloom? The most classic piece a sailor (or sailing fan) should own is a striped sailor shirt. Most commonly white with thin blue horizontal stripes, the sailor shirt is the most iconic nautical article of clothing (matched only by its accessory counterpart the rope bracelet and its sister shoe, the Sperry). J.Crew has great sailor tees at the moment, and the Jack Wills "Portsea" dress is a more feminine alternative. In addition to breaking out the Sperrys and putting on this year's Nantucket rope bracelet (true preps keep them on all summer), you can always take a more subtle approach. Wearing a thinner striped t-shirt under a blazer or cardigan is less literal than the full-on long-sleeve sailor shirt. Motifs like anchors and ship wheels conjure nautical as well, and are all over everything from shirts to shoes. The main thing you must keep in mind while dressing nautical in the winter is to abide by all the traditional preppy rules. Don't even try to get away with white pants until that infamous last Monday of May, and don't wear your seersucker chino shorts when it's still 40 degrees outside. If you add touches of classic sailor style to your wardrobe during these grueling pre-spring months, you should be able to cure the winter blues, at least for a while.

The Preppy Problem

2011-01-07T17:14:00.003-05:00

Do you yearn to look like a Ralph Lauren ad or page out of Nantucket Magazine but fear the look may be too literal? Many prep-lovers have this worry, but the key to conquering it is to balance classically preppy pieces with more modern, trendy ones to keep the look more "fresh off the catwalk" than "fresh off the ferry." And the go-to place to master the art of fashion-forward prep? J.Crew. Skimming their catalogue will show sailor tees paired with sequin shorts, sparkling layered necklaces layered over a crisp oxford, and classic cotton cardigans over romantic day dresses. But whether you head to J.Crew or another store, the trick is to keep it fresh and unexpected. Pin a sparkly brooch onto a tailored blazer, or string neon laces through your beloved Bean boots (I put hot pink laces on my navy pair and actually got complimented by two J.Crew sales associates). Color is also very important. Preppy looks are very often done up in red, navy, pink, green, white, and khaki. Adding shots of more bold hues in neon tones (neon is very of-the-moment) or metallic finishes will both literally and figuratively brighten an otherwise traditional ensemble. Whatever you do, think out of the box and be eclectic especially with your accessories to reinvent the classic idea of a prep.

Happy Holidays!

2010-11-28T16:26:00.000-05:00

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-11-11T18:25:00.002-05:00

No one does holiday prep like Ralph Lauren, and his Rugby line is no exception. The luxe looks seen on the freshly-updated website feature tons of tartan, tweed, and tinsel fit for a Christmas spent in a ski lodge in Aspen or in a flat in posh New York City. Rich velvet dresses adorned with classic blazers and plaid pants subdued with cable knits recall sitting by a crackling fire on Christmas Eve awaiting Santa's arrival after a long cocktail party with friends. So get into the holiday spirit a bit early and start making your wishlist and checking it twice!

Happy Birthday, Lilly!

2010-11-10T19:03:00.002-05:00

Make a wish today for the birthday of the Queen of Prep, Lilly Pulitzer!

Jack Wills Boston Now Open!

2010-10-24T14:58:00.002-04:00

Congrats to all of the Jack Wills affiliates for the launch of Jack's third US store in none other than Boston, Massachusetts! I most likely won't be able to get there until at least winter break, but if you're in the area definitely stop by!

179 Newbury St.
Boston, MA 02116
Be there.

Fall Holiday

2010-09-16T17:49:00.005-04:00

As the leaves begin to change and the temperature starts to drop, the true prep feels better than a child on Christmas morning. Perhaps one of the most exciting seasons, fall for a prepster means tweedy blazers, fair isle knits, worn-in cords, oxford shoes, and lots and lots of silk tie motifs. But to look preppy is not the same as to be preppy. "Preppy" is a lifestyle- a manner of being in addition to dressing like you just robbed a Ralph Lauren store and get a Brooks Brothers gift for every holiday. And the start of autumn is just the time to pack away the carefree days of summer and start acting the part. The foliage makes for gorgeous backdrops, so go on a picture-taking spree with friends dressed in herringbone and wool. Apple picking and pumpkin carving are also much more fun when you could be posing for a Tommy Hilfiger ad. It's also cool- yes, cool- to nonchalantly saunter down the aisles at your university library, browsing the books that are almost as classic as your clothes. So kick up the leaves and fall into the preppy paradise.

Fall Previews: Lauren and Wills

2010-09-02T17:23:00.004-04:00

Images courtesy of the Rugby autumn lookbook.

Images courtesy of the Jack Wills autumn lookbook.

Rah Rah Rah

2010-08-13T22:25:00.004-04:00

Few things scream "collegiate prep" better than the classic varsity jacket. Typically adorned with impressive varsity letters, varsity jackets were the prize possession of every young prepster and the jacket every girl wanted around their shoulders at the end of a date. Flash forward to 2010 and the good old letterman jacket is getting a makeover. Of course lines like Rugby are keeping it classic with leather sleeves and cool chenille letters, but they (as well as brands like Gilly Hicks) are also adding the letters to more unexpected articles of clothing. Cardigans and sweatshirts, to name a few, are getting the university touch with varsity letters. Rugby has quite the array of sweaters and outerwear in the style, and also have customizable letters for sale at their stores to add to any rugby, oxford, or blazer you could want. Thanks to the modern preppy world, you don't have to earn your letters the old-fashioned way anymore.

Endless Summer

2010-08-12T18:23:00.003-04:00

The final pictures of summer before I head back to school in one week.

All, in Jack Wills

Cheers, Nantucket

2010-07-26T18:53:00.005-04:00

So I just got back from Nantucket, and I figured I'd share my Jack Wills photos from their new store at 11 South Water Street! The store is decorated so perfectly for the brand's aesthetic, and I could've purchased the whole store, quite frankly.

Jack Wills bikes in front of the store.

Me in the dressing room.

It was meant to be.

In my "Lytchett" dress.

My cousin in her floral "Cresentdale" dress.

ACK ACK Baby

2010-07-16T00:13:00.002-04:00

Look for The Preppy Handblog on location in Nantucket, Massachusetts all next week- there will be plenty of installments!

Two Roads Diverged in a Yellow Wood

2010-07-08T18:45:00.003-04:00

And I'm not only taking the road less traveled, but also the scenic route. And, obviously since the wood is yellow, it's fall. I'm taking this post to fast-forward a few months to post a few of my fall inspirational pictures. Rugby just debuted a couple shots from their early fall collection online today, and I've already been thinking about my back-to-school shopping (though I may have to wait til November to wear some of it because of that Williamsburg weather). Here are just a couple of my favorites so far for fall.

Image courtesy of Rugby

Image courtesy of Rugby

Image courtesy of Jack Wills

The Green Light

2010-06-22T10:31:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I was lucky enough to go to a polo match at the Greenwich Polo Club in Greenwich, Connecticut. It was so amazing, and my friend and I felt like we were in East Egg with our floppy hats and the soft jazz music playing in the background.

Rugby in Connecticut

2010-06-07T10:47:00.001-04:00

Columbia Fields in Ralph Lauren Commercial!

Columbia Fields | MySpace Music Videos

Video courtesy of Rugby, 2007

The Grey Lady

2010-06-01T11:54:00.001-04:00

Nantucket Island

Summer Everlasting

2010-05-30T16:41:00.004-04:00

Gap oxford stripe sundress, Ray Ban oversize cat eye sunglasses, American Eagle sparkle rope bracelets, J.Crew sparkle starfish earrings.

Effortlessly Prep: A Guide, Courtesy of Jack Wills

2010-05-22T16:59:00.004-04:00

You all know that look I'm talking about- when you see someone with that perfect mix of proper and relaxed. But how do you get such a laid-back luxe vibe when you're wearing pearls and cable knits? These photos from last summer's Jack Wills Varsity Polo Match are still relevant (as true preppy fashion never goes out of style) and I think speak for themselves.

Images courtesy of Jack Wills

Let's recap:
- Chunky knit sweaters over crisp sundresses
- Fringed scarves with blazers
- Slightly undone hair
- Wellies and umbrellas in the rain
- Florals paired with more classic pieces like a leather belt
- Dresses, mini or maxi
- Mixed patterns, like two different stripes with each other
- Layered jewelry

And before I forget, a HUGE shoutout to Jack Wills for their care package and giving me an opportunity to get on board at their new Nantucket, Massachusetts location when I'm there in July!!! Thank you so much!

Food for Thought: Boardwalk

2010-05-21T17:50:00.004-04:00

So to get my post count up, I've decided to do a post every Friday called "Food for Thought" that leaves readers with some sort of preppy inspiration. I'm getting into the swing of summer so I'll definitely be posting several times a week, but this new feature will guarantee a post a week, even once summer ends and it's back to the books at William and Mary.

Images courtesy of Rugby

So, this week's inspiration: preppy surfer. Take these shots and create an outfit that you would wear based on them. It could be for daytime, an evening dinner, or a midnight walk on the beach.

Summer Lovin'

2010-05-12T21:20:00.011-04:00

Images courtesy of Rugby

Yes, I am done with finals which can only mean one thing- it's officially summer! Now as I head back home to Connecticut from William and Mary to enjoy my vacation, it's time to perfect that summer wardrobe. With upcoming trips to New York City, Nantucket, and Rhode Island, I'm going to need outfits for every occasion, from lounging on the beach to dining out downtown. So as a kick-off to summer, here is the official Preppy Handblog's top five summer checklist:

1. Sunglasses, sunglasses, sunglasses. These are NECESSARY to finish off a look, be it a bikini or a sundress. The preppiest of shades have to be Ray Bans, and either in a metal or a tortoise frame. Love classic Wayfarers, aviators, or, my new favorite that I cannot wait to buy, the Cats 1000 style.

2. Sperry Topsiders. For guys and girls, these are another summer must-have. Whether you're boating or just shopping around town, these go with everything. Chino shorts and an oxford? Check. Seersucker sundress? Also, check. Right now I'm loving the metallic gold ones, but I'm also a fan of the colorful patent leather ones and, of course, the classic brown.

3. Sundresses. A more feminine and effortless alternative to chino shorts and a polo shirt, sundresses are key for easy preppy dressing in the warmer months. Rugby, Gap, and J.Crew always have classic options in various styles, from shifts to maxis.

4. Rope accents. You always had a classic rope bracelet as a kid from your vacations to the Cape, but how do you translate such a nautical accessory into more refined preppy attire? Urban Outfitters and Juicy Couture have bracelets this season that consist of a natural rope braid adorned with rhinestones and beads for added interest and glitz. Jennifer Behr also has nautical knot headbands that look more avant garde than sailor. And countless bags and sandals have been decked out with rope handles and straps as well for a bit of nautical flair.

5. Madras. The print of summer. Yes, there's Lilly, seersucker, oxford stripe. But nothing says summer than the warm-weather plaid that's annually splashed across shorts, skirts, dresses, blazers, and the like.

Get ready to set sail because summer's finally here!

The Queen's Croquet Ground

2010-04-08T19:47:00.007-04:00

My friends and I (far left) at Campus Croquet at the College of William and Mary

Image courtesy of Perfectly Askew

Rugby, polo, golf, tennis... The list of the world's preppiest sports goes on and on. But one sport that is often forgotten but just as quintessentially prep is croquet. The Victorian pasttime is a perfect activity for a warm spring day, and also a perfect opportunity for the preppiest of the preps to shed their tweed blazers and step out in crisp khakis and an oxford instead. Obviously I'm going to suggest Rugby for some croquet attire first and foremost. For the ladies, I suggest a frilly floral dress, an oxford and chino shorts, or an uberpreppy rugby dress, depending on your mood and how sporty you want to go. Shoe-wise I love boat shoes and oxfords (especially oxford heels, though there's always the problem of your heels sinking in the grass). And for the guys, take a cue from the one and only Chuck Bass and don a cricket sweater vest, shorts, and, if you're daring, knee socks. And remember- have fun and play by the rules!

Bookworm

2010-03-29T16:39:00.002-04:00

Prep in the City

2010-03-10T09:51:00.003-05:00

Images courtesy of Unabashedly Prep, both photographed in NYC

It's easy to be preppy when you live in Greenwich and summer in the Hamptons, but what about those die-hard preps who happen to live in a more urban metropolis? Take New York City for example. I live in Connecticut but split my time between Williamsburg, VA (easy to be preppy there too) when I'm at school, home in Fairfield County when I'm on breaks, summer vacations in Watch Hill, RI and the Island (Nantucket, of course), and, yes, semi-annual trips to NYC. Every place I go has such an obvious preppy standpoint; every place, that is, except for the City. New York City, the fashion capital of the Western Hemisphere and, dare I say, the world. I've been there at Christmastime, during fall 2009 fashion week (saw Lacoste), and countless other times over the years and always find it the most difficult to dress for. This really shouldn't be the case because in the City literally everything goes (or at least should go). So how do you take preppy to the street, be it Soho or the Upper East Side? Pair your preppy staples like rugby shirts, oxfords, khakis, and Sperrys with more fashion-y, luxe pieces like chic leather boots, dark denim, and exquisite jewelry. In the city, opt out of wearing a navy blazer, oxford shirt, and khaki chinos and instead go for the blazer over a sophisticated dress and heels or the oxford with a chunky jeweled necklace and dark denim skinny jeans.

Touchdown

2010-03-09T11:18:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Gasoline Alley Antiques

Image courtesy of Collectible Ivy

Image courtesy of Historic Football Posters

Image courtesy of Collectible Ivy

Take Ivy

2010-03-05T14:54:00.000-05:00

It may come as a surprise to learn that Japanese style hunters, just like Rugby fans, look to collegiate New England for the next big "do" in prep style. Even more surprising, this isn’t a new trend. Case in point, the 1968 catalogue raisonné Take Ivy. Some of our favorite blogs have been recently touting this volume as the ultimate example of Eastern love for the Northeast, so naturally we did some digging ourselves. In 1968, Japanese photographer T. Hayashida scanned the campuses of America's top universities and cataloged the prep persona -- real live students wearing boat shoes, blazers and strong, wide plaids -- in a volume that was published by Hachette's Japanese publishing arm, Hachette Fujingaho. (There was also an accompanying video, set to jazz no less, that is lost somewhere out there beyond the reaches of YouTube.)

We have been searching as ferociously as, well, a Japanese style hunter for a copy of this book, but to no avail. So do us a favor: Whether you're from the Northeast or the Far East, try to track one down (apparently it was reissued by Hachette in 2006). After all, a little extracurricular reading never hurt anyone. And if you do find one, hit us up; we want your source.

Images and article courtesy of The News Room

WASP Gone Wild!

2010-02-18T21:33:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Unabashedly Prep

Image courtesy of Rugby

Image courtesy of Jack Wills

Forget wearing your polo buttoned up all the way and tucked into your chino shorts. The new way to wear preppy is a bit more undone and edgy. Rugby and Jack Wills are the edgy prep pioneers, creating clothes that are still classically prep but with a twist. Skull and crossbones adorn basic polos at Rugby, while Jack Wills is currently selling a tee with a more macabre graphic than your typical Ralph Lauren polo pony. And even if you decide to keep it classic sans skulls, don't forget some attitude.

Walking on a Dream: Rugby Spring 2010

2010-02-18T13:20:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Rugby

The Rugby spring collection video is out (though not on Youtube yet so I couldn't post it here) so check it out at Rugby! The look is very all-American prep with a beachy twist- perfect for the spring ahead. I love the little animations in the video as well because it gives it a whimsical, youthful edge. Great work, Rugby! I can't wait to head back home to Connecticut for spring break in a few weeks and get over to New Canaan and shop til I drop!

And a HUGE shout-out to Jack Wills who has become a supporter of The Preppy Handblog!

Jack Wills Washes Ashore

2010-02-15T22:46:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Jack Wills

Preppy Brit store Jack Wills is crossing the pond, and where else to open their US flagship than preppy capital Nantucket, Massachusetts? The classic pink and navy stripes have been spotted on a Jeep on the beaches of the Island, getting tourists and locals alike excited for a new preppy place to shop. Jack Wills opens up shop on 11 South Water St. where Claire Murray used to be- I'll be there in July going crazy!

Not Your Grandmother's Pearls

2010-01-15T14:41:00.000-05:00

Who ever said preppy meant clean-cut and straightforward? Photographer Sergei Sviatchenko surely never heard that before. The cool website Close Up and Private is a collection of photographs he's taken of both girls and guys in preppy attire, but with an edge. Their clothes are classic, but the photography is taken from different angles and in different colors, giving preppy a new look.

Images courtesy of Close Up and Private

Trail Blazer

2010-01-14T10:10:00.000-05:00

Images courtesy of Unabashedly Prep

If a true prep's house was on fire and they could only grab one thing out of their closet to save, they would undoubtedly snag their beloved blazer (or their favorite, as most preps own several). There is nothing more versatile than a great blazer, whether it's a classic navy with brass buttons, black wool, or gray herringbone tweed to name a few. Don't think blazers are reserved for the office or interviews. They can be styled for any occasion, from class to cocktail parties. So, here are my top blazer tips:
1. Buy one! If you don't own a blazer, you really should put one on your list to buy. Great places to get a classic blazer are J.Crew, Rugby, Brooks Brothers, and Ralph Lauren (but you can find them really anywhere).
2. If you don't want to splurge, check your little brother's closet. That's where I found an old navy Tommy Hilfiger blazer with gold crest buttons- classic. It's small, so it has that shrunken look when I wear it which is perfect.
3. Dress it down for class or the weekend. Of course a crisp oxford (or a more flirty ruffled blouse) would look fantastic under a blazer, but don't limit yourself to button-downs. Try embellished tees and pretty tanks (J.Crew for these!) under your blazer with skinny jeans or chino shorts when it gets warmer. Adding a cool scarf gets you bonus points.
4. Dress it up for parties. Yes, you can wear a blazer to a party without looking like you just came from a board meeting. Pair it with a low-cut sequined party top, dark jeans, and killer heels for grabbing cocktails with the girls. For a more soft date look, throw your blazer on over a feminine floral dress and pretty sandals.
5. Experiment. Don't be afraid to try a crazy trend with a blazer- the blazer is such a classic piece that it will tone down an out-there look.
If you need some more blazer-wearing ideas, check out Rugby's five ways to wear a blazer.

All Tied Up

2010-01-13T20:18:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Close Up and Private

Diane Keaton in Annie Hall

Images courtesy of Rugby

Are ties just for the guys, or can girls sport a preppy-cool tie once in a while? It may not be the norm, but girls can definitely wear ties, and even make them look feminine with the right outfit. Flashback to Annie Hall in 1977. Diane Keaton pulled off the menswear-for-women look with ease in the film, clad in no other than Ralph Lauren. But 33 years later ties still fly under the radar for women even though they've been proven to look so good. So why don't more girls throw on a tie with their oxford and blazer these days? Lack of confidence maybe, but uncertainty on how exactly to wear it is probably the main reason. Tying a tie should be cake because most girls have had to help their boyfriends with their ties at one time or another. So outfit options? A classic oxford, chunky cardigan or fitted blazer, dark skinny jeans, cool oxford heels, and, yes, a tie. Too preppy for you? Then keep checking back for more posts to convert you to prep-dom. And don't forget to vote for your opinion on girls in ties in the poll on the right panel!

Prep School

2010-01-13T17:22:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Teen Vogue

A bit about myself before I start the actual blogging:
I'm Elle, a William and Mary student and lover of all things style (especially the prep way of life). I currently write for three other blogs, my own Pink Tartan & Tweed and Your Love Is My Drug, and Out of Season, W&M paper The Flat Hat's fashion blog. I decided to start a preppy-specific blog for a few reasons. First of all, I'm pretty much the queen of all things prep. No, I don't wear Polo oxfords, khakis, Sperrys, and a ribbon belt everyday, but I am quite the fan of WASP-y attire. My favorite place to shop of all time is Rugby Ralph Lauren, because it mixes that classic preppy element with more of-the-moment fashion, like edgy details, that keep it fresh. Lastly, I've recently been inspired by preppy posts on other blogs. Rugby's The News Room and Unabashedly Prep are always prep-obsessed, but preppy style has been making its way onto other more general fashion blogs as well. Sea of Shoes blogger Jane Aldridge is a Rugby fan and sports some of their pieces in her amazing outfits. So to celebrate the start of this new blog, here's a video to introduce you to the world of prep: