a prep at any age

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It wasn’t difficult to predict that fashions from the hit show Gossip Girl would make their way into the mainstream. Even then, we basically assumed it would be a trend reserved for the teens and twenty-somethings. Well…it’s had more impact than that. We’re not telling you to run out and buy a plaid mini, but we will give you tips on how to embrace PREP.

Teen: Prep style has been part of teen fashion for as long as we can remember. Keep it modern but sweet, you don’t want to look like a stripper. Make sure the pleated skirt fits properly, there should be NO pulling. Keep proportion in mind. If the skirt is short, wear a button down that’s a little fuller, not too fitted. For teens, it’s about boy meets girl.
In your 20′s: You’re the perfect age to play a little bit with this style. Make your Prep a little more funky by adding an unexpected piece like a cardigan with a little sequin. Feel free to pile on jewels like a lot of pearls.
In your 30′s: Be a sophisticated Prep. Add a plaid vest to a beautiful blouse and wide leg denim. The perfect shoes for you are penny loafer pumps! Voila’, you’re on trend without trying to look too young!!
In your 40′s and beyond: Yes, this is a look you can pull off. You want to go a little more classic in your approach. A blazer with a crest is a great option. Pop in a pair of red loafers, and a plaid bag. Or, you can pull off a red lizard bag and shoes (fake is fine). It’s o.k. to go for it a little with your accessories. 40′s and beyond is all about elegance, confidence, and sophistication. So, interpret the trends in that manner for your age group.

prep in your teens:

  • micah button down @ A & F
  • plaid tennis skirt @ Forever 21
  • cathy knit jacket @ Forever 21
  • Rampage t-strap pump @ Endless
  • Jonathan Aston rib over the knee sock @ Sock Shop
  • Ralph Lauren skull and bones tie @ Ralph Lauren Rugby

    prep in your 20′s:

  • See by Chloe ruffle front blouse @ Nordstrom
  • Taverniti So Jeans skinny @ Revolve
  • Lutz & Patmos sequin cardigan @ Vivre
  • vest with embroidered patch @ Forever 21
  • tri strand pearl necklace @ Forever 21

    prep in your 30′s:

  • Alexander Wang zip sleeve blouse @ shopjake
  • 18th Amendment colbert high waist flare jean @ shopbop
  • tartan vest @ Forever 21
  • Pura Lopez ‘N253′ pump @ Nordstrom
  • Juicy Couture double chain ID bracelet @ Nordstrom

    prep in your 40′s:

  • satin trim blazer with pin @ Forever 21
  • Classiques Entier cuffed tweed pants @ Nordstrom
  • Tory Burch ‘brock’ cardigan @ Nordstrom
  • air penny @ Cole Haan
  • buffalo check spectator @ Ralph Lauren

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    Comments

    1. Elisa says:

      FANTASTIC post. Love the input on pulling off the look by age. Thank you Jean!

    2. Annie says:

      Thank you SO much for giving age appropriate suggestions! I am (gulp) heading into the 50s category and so much of fashion is for folk young enough to be my children. It is refreshing to find suggestions that will work for me.

    3. Annie – I'm going to try to keep incorporating fashion and style for all ages. I'm glad you like – I agree the fashion for women over 40 can be bleak! It's either too frumpy or it looks like a 20 yr old should wear it.

    4. I'm going to try to do more of that, because there seems to be a need. Suggestions are always welcome…

    5. samanthalu says:

      Check this shoe out – http://www.buckle.com/product/product_detail.js... – preppy mary jane with a “sixties” heel that remind me more of a kitten heel. It's 50% off too which is VERY cool!

      Great post . . . . love that you're using Polyvore to put these together as well.

    6. samanthalu says:

      Check this shoe out – http://www.buckle.com/product/product_detail.js... – preppy mary jane with a “sixties” heel that remind me more of a kitten heel. It's 50% off too which is VERY cool!

      Great post . . . . love that you're using Polyvore to put these together as well.

    7. samanthalu says:

      Check this shoe out – http://www.buckle.com/product/product_detail.js... – preppy mary jane with a “sixties” heel that remind me more of a kitten heel. It's 50% off too which is VERY cool!

      Great post . . . . love that you're using Polyvore to put these together as well.

    8. gucci bags says:

      trying to look too young!!
      In your 40’s and beyond: Yes, this is a look you can pull off. You want to go a little more classic in your approach. A blazer with a crest is a great option. Pop in a pair of red loafers, and a plaid bag. Or,

    9. gucci bags says:

      trying to look too young!!
      In your 40’s and beyond: Yes, this is a look you can pull off. You want to go a little more classic in your approach. A blazer with a crest is a great option. Pop in a pair of red loafers, and a plaid bag. Or,

    10. good article.i will keep your article.wish you have a wonderful time.

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