THE RISE OF "MODERN PREPPY"

When many of us visualize the "preppy" aesthetic, we tend to picture neutral colored sweater vests, polos, horseback riding, old money, and the East Coast. Members of Gen Z have their own unique vision of what preppy is, hence the rise of the style deemed "modern preppy."

This aesthetic takes components of the traditional preppy style (think knitwear and headbands) and combines them with the famous VSCO Girl era to create a style that is all its own. Key identifiers of modern preppy include the color pink, Golden Goose sneakers, frills on skirts and tops, beaded bracelets, smiley faces, and of course anything LoveShackFancy or Roller Rabbit.

As with most new styles, modern preppy faces its fair share of criticism. Some call it "basic"; some view it as tacky; some deny it has any real connection to the traditional preppy aesthetic. While some hate it, others love it. Modern preppy can be found at many southern universities and colleges in the United States. Everyone who witnessed RushTok in the fall of 2021 has seen the colorful, frilly, girly, pink, sparkly outfits worn by women rushing (mostly) southern universities.

Since modern preppy is an offshoot of the VSCO Girl era, it seems like this style will not stand the test of time the way traditional preppy has. What are your thoughts? Comment them down below.

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And with that, I will see you next Saturday with another fashion post!

XOXO, STEFFI