Throughout the history of the United States, there has been a divide in cultures. The same goes for Preppy Culture. As I stated in my last article, Preppy Culture originated in the New England Coastline. However, since then it has spread and adapted to the culture of the southern states. Understanding these Two very different subcultures will, I believe, help one gain an insight into their stylistic preferences and further develop their wardrobe.
The Northern Prep was the genesis of the culture and tries to stay true to the tenets of its ancestry. One way it does this is modesty. A Northern prep also does not draw the eye with gimmicks. One of the gimmicks I am referring to is using lots of colors. The main color palette of northern prep stays mild with muted tones such as brown, whites, and beige. When experimenting they will use darker colors like Dark Red, Navy Blue, and Forest Green. In a more modern Northern Prep wardrobe, they might have a stronger use of color.
In contrast, almost without exception, a Southern Prep will use many different colors to expand their outfit’s appeal. The heart of the Southern Style is wrapped around the use of pastel and light colors such as Light Yellow, Bright Pink, Light Green, and Sky Blue. You will find these colors in shorts, Sport Shirts, shoes, and almost anything they wear.
I would say that the Northern Prep is more of a classy and dressy attire. Their staple items can be dressed down, but to people outside of the culture will be found as a more formal outfit. For example, the Oxford Dress Shirt to most people would be seen as a dressy item and related to the formal button down. In a Preppy’s eyes however, it is seen as a casual item used in everyday attire(an oxford is not a formal item on any occasion). Remember the original preppy style was supposed to be versatile enough to go from work to the country club. Another item that is a staple of the Northern Prep’s arsenal is the khaki colored chino pants. Again, an item that should never be considered a formal item, it is considered in most cultures a dressier items. Some other items that will be in a Northern Prep’s wardrobe are cardigans, penny loafers, derby shoes, and sport coats.
The Southern Prep, however, is seen as a more laid back alternative to the Northern style. It is meant to be versatile enough to go from the office to the beach. So warm weather clothes will be prioritized. One of these items would be the Polo Shirt. This is an item that will keep you cool in the Southern Heat, but you will look good enough to go to just about any event. Another item that almost every Southern Prep owns is Embroidered Pants/shorts. They give a preppy flair but are probably made out of breathable fabric so you stay cool. Some other Preppy items that will see more use in the south are long sleeve t-shirts, short sleeve button downs, and leather strap caps.
Both sides of the coin have an affinity for specific preppy brands. On the Northern Side, they will stay with brands like Brooks Brothers, J Press, and L.L. Bean. Southern Preps will lean more toward Vineyard Vines(even though they have a northern origination), Southern Proper, and Southern Tide. Ralph Lauren, however, does a good job at catering to everyone’s different styles.
In summation, all the facets of our beloved culture are viable in most of today’s culture. There should be no rivalry between the two because both have true beauty and helpful functionality behind them. In my personal style, I try to integrate pieces of both and would recommend doing so to add variety. In the winter I take a more northern route, and in the summer I go for more of an upbeat colorful Southern Prep style.
Elliott Graffice,
Prepped For Anything
Prepped For Anything 