I am often asked by people for a list of the absolute, core preppy items for building out the base for a classic casual wardrobe. This list should be no surprise to any regular readers. It is not complete (obviously), but a good place to start.
Of course, androgyny plays a role, with just a few items specifically for Men (M) or Women (W).
I have tried to stay away from specific brands where possible. These items can be dressed up or down, personalized with other items, and often come in both inexpensive and high-end versions:
- Shirts: Oxfords: Solids (White and Blue) and University Stripes; Polo Shirts; Turtlenecks (W); Tattersall (M); Flannel; Seersucker
- Pants: Khakis; Nantucket Reds for summer; Corduroys for cooler weather
- Sweaters: Navy Cotton Crewneck; Cotton Cable; Navy Wool Crewneck; Cardigans(W); Norwegian Crewneck
- Shoes: Sperry Top-Siders; L.L. Bean Camp Mocs; Bucks (M); Bluchers; Bean Boots for winter
- Belts: D-Ring Motif Belt (W); Tab & Buckle Belt (M)
- Pocketbook (W): Vintage Vera Bradley or small L.L. Bean Boat and Tote
- Outerwear: Rain Slicker (can double as a wind-breaker), Patagonia Fleece
- Jackets: Tweed (M), Navy Blazer (M)
(All links here are to Daily Prep entries.)
8 comments:
Wonderfully helpful list. I'm so glad you made this. Great advice :)
Thank you for such a helpful list, but I do have one question. Are tassel loafers an appropriate shoe for men, particularly kiltie tassle loafers?
Muffy,
You feel turtlenecks are a no for men currently?
-CW
Hello. Those asking this type of question might benefit from the following links, which provide a similar line of advice. They are aimed at men, though.
G. Bruce Boyer's "Curmudgeon's Lament": http://www.thesartorialist.com/photos/a-curmudgeon’s-lament/
This old guide for a "student wardrobe": http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_74x4c7Ehzmg/S0X81rdJDSI/AAAAAAAACaA/snpyZnct1No/s1600-h/Student+Wardrobe+Guide+MilJour+8+25+57.jpg
And Jeffrey A. Tucker's (rather conservative) "How To Dress Like a Man": http://www.lewrockwell.com/tucker/tucker38.html
Thanks, Ben, but I was actually curious about Muffy's opinion on the matter.
-CW
Love love your blog (and today's somewhat sarcastic comments !). I'm a girl of the sea myself( Norman actually) but currently living in Paris, so I enjoy all these photos on the water and yachting trips in your posts. Anyway, forgive this French-speaking person and tell me : what does "Muffy" mean ? I understand it's a preppy nickname, but what does it refer to ?
Perhaps one of your commenters could help !!!!!.....
@Collin - I believe this one falls more into the personal choice category. While I have no dislike of kiltie tassle loafers, I always seem to prefer the plain.
@Anonymous - Again, this comes down to personal choice. I have never been a big fan of the look, but who am I to say in that in the bitter cold men shouldn't don a garment that will keep their necks warmer?
@Claudine - I have no clue!! Perhaps I should inquire with our friend, CWC III, who saddled me with it. I would take the lovely name Claudine over Muffy any day!!
Muffy ... thanks so much for the list and links. I just went to the Leatherman site and ordered two fantastic tab & buckle belts, one with dancing martini glasses. Your blog is absolutely charming and a joy to read.
Cheeers!
Morty
Post a Comment