a prep at any age

created on Sep 26, ‵08
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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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    • FANTASTIC post. Love the input on pulling off the look by age. Thank you Jean!
    • I'm going to try to do more of that, because there seems to be a need. Suggestions are always welcome...
    • Annie
      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.
    • 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.
    • samanthalu
      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.
    • 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,
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