Get Preppy: How to Incorporate Prep Into Your Wardrobe This Spring

As we (quite literally) shed our winter layers for clothing that’s a little lighter and brighter, one trend is rising to the top of the heap: prep. Born out of preparatory and Ivy League schools, today preppy fashion is less about status and more about expression. Contemporary brands are embracing the trend in their own way, offering inspired musings on what collegiate style means for the modern wearer.

From shoes to shirts, here’s how to incorporate prep into your own wardrobe this spring.

Levi’s Darling Short-Sleeve Cutwork Blouse

Levi’s—which recently opened its first Vancouver store in Pacific Centre—might be most famous for its denim, but one of the most buzzed-about items from its spring collection is the 100 percent cotton Darling Short-Sleeve Cutwork Blouse. Coming in either blue or crisp white, it’s a lightweight, flowy, puffed short-sleeve that pairs perfectly with (you guessed it) jeans.

Harly Jae’s Casita Cardigan

Made in Canada from a mix of hemp and cotton, the Casita Cardigan from Vancouver womenswear line Harly Jae updates this prep classic with a relaxed fit and soft V-neck. Pair it with a skirt for something more feminine or loose trousers for a laidback look.

Roots’ Bowen Pleated Mini Skirt

It’s giving private school without the rules. This pleated mini skirt from iconic Canadian brand Roots features an elongated elastic waist and pull-on design for optimal comfort. Coming in charcoal grey and light brown, it’s the prep-forward basic you didn’t know you needed.

A Bronze Age’s Venice Headband

Channel your inner Blair Waldorf, but with a modern twist. Made to order right here in Canada, Venice Headband from Vancouver brand A Bronze Age features beautiful ruched detailing for a textured look. Buy it in rich pomegranate red to add a pop of colour to any outfit.

Monk & Lou River Cropped Pants from Plenty

Longtime Vancouver clothing purveyor Plenty is embracing prep with this pair of cropped pants from in-house brand Monk & Lou. Made from a comfortable cotton-linen blend, these straight-legged beauties feature thin vertical stripes that give them a gently collegiate look.

Brunette the Label’s Lace Trim Socks

Vancouver brand Brunette the Label is upping its prep game with this pair of dainty socks, which stand out for their playful lace trim that hangs playfully around the ankle. Coming in crisp white and stark black, they boast just the right amount of whimsy.

Desha Bag from Sonya Lee

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SONYA LEE BAGS (@sonyalee_official)

Handmade in Toronto from soft yet structured Argentine leather, the Desha by Sonya Lee combines the school-classic tote shape with contemporary metallic hardware for a look that’s equal parts bold and refined.

The Academy Mary Jane from Poppy Barley

It’s prep with a little punch. Edmonton-based ethical shoe and accessories line Poppy Barley pays its respects to collegiate fashion with The Academy Mary Jane, which is made current with studded welts, slightly chunky heel, pebbled leather and silver buckled T-bar.

Atelier Tulpe’s Bowtie Vest

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by atelier tulpe (@ateliertulpe)

Handmade in small batches in Vancouver, the 100 percent cotton Bowtie Vest from Atelier Tulpe is a sensual, sophisticated take on prep, with a snug fit that hugs curves and three large bows down the middle. Able to be worn both backwards and forwards, it pays gentle homage to classic university fashion from a decidedly modern perspective.