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The preppy look is back this season, among other fashion trends. Gals and guys are sporting their polo shirts, pressed khakis and sweater vests. The look that traditionally screams “expensive!” does not have to cost you a whole lot. Here’s how to get the look on a budget.
Start by asking if older siblings, parents or grandparent might have clothes and accessories in their closets that fit the fad – and won’t cost you a dime. Perhaps you can help them clean ot their closets in the process or give new glory to under appreciated clothes. If you plan to tailor the clothes to fit, make sure your relative is giving it to you. Don’t modify a loaner.
Check the sale racks at preppy stores like Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, Nautica or plunder your local thrift stores. If you’d rather not wait, try stores that sell similar clothes and accessories for a fraction of the cost. Here is where I would shop:
1. Polo Shirts
Splurge: Lacoste’s Short Sleeve 2 Button Pique Polo, $79.50
Budget-friendly: Old Navy Women’s Contrasting Collar Polos, on sale for $12.50 originally $14.50
Savings: $67
2. Oxford Shirts
Splurge: Ralph Lauren’s Megan Striped Oxford Shirt, $85
Budget-friendly: Old Navy’s Women Oxford Shirt, $26.50
Savings: $58.50
3. Khakis
Slurge: J. Crew’s Waverly Chino, $69.50
Budget-friendly: Classic khaki pants, $49.50
Savings: $20
4. Cardigans
Splurge: Cashmere crewneck cardigan, $158
Budget-friendly: Target’s Merona Essential Cardigan, $19.99
Savings: $138.01
5. Shoes
Splurge: J. Crew’s G.H. Bass & Company penny loafers, $120
Budget-friendly: From Payless Shoe Source to Ross, you are bound to find shoes that fit your budget. Penny loafers and classy Mary Janes are a must to achieve the preppy look. $20 – $35
6. Hand bag
Slurge: Designer bags will set you back a couple hundred to thousands of dollars
Budget-friendly: If you don’t mind a knock off handbag, go for it. Otherwise, shop around until you find a classic bag that will go with everything. Shop at stores like Marshall’s, Ross or Loehmman’s for discounted prices or hit consignment stores near your area for inexpensive, vintage finds.
7. Accessories
Splurge: Real pearls and diamonds. $100 – $1000
Budget-friendly: A string of cheap pearls or cubic zirconium studs looks about the same as their expensive counterparts. Accessorize your outfit with cheap pieces, invest in classic styles that you can use without looking dated or buy vintage.
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
Huh. Sounds like Old Navy has a lot of trendy basics this season. Unfortunately, Old Navy changed the fit of their clothes awhile back and it’s usually just the wrong cut for my figure. Stinks because I would shop there all the time if not for that.
Back when RL Polo shirts were the must have for every preppy lady, all of the girls in the know would buy our shirts from the boys’ department. Still works today. I’ve also been known to buy XL girls’ basics by better brands (yoga and workout clothes too, Northface jackets) because they fit just fine and are usually a great deal cheaper than adult clothing.
@Liz I haven’t noticed a change. What are they doing differently?
@amyp That’s really good advice. Buying clothes from the juniors department is so much cheaper.
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