True Prep

Occasionally I surprise myself when I get dressed for the day.  No, I don’t wear mismatched shoes or put a top on backward, but I’ll put together an outfit that is both familiar and foreign to me.  I refer to these outfit choices as “true prep.”  A look that reminds me of my dad.

Banana Republic sweater and skirt, Ann Taylor shirt, and Sam Edelman booties.

My dad, despite going to public school his entire life, has always referred to his own style as “preppy.”  He wears a uniform of khaki pants, a button down shirt, a (usually) navy sweater, and brown loafers.  He has never veered from this sartorial recipe. 

Side buttons and pleat add fun details to a classic piece

I have never adhered to a preppy look, despite being called “preppy” all through middle school.  My dad would have gladly encouraged a khaki-navy blue outfit, but I wore jeans and sweatshirts almost exclusively until I hit college and began developing my own sense of personal style.  I would classify my current style as modern.  I wear classic, updated pieces (think classic white blouse with bell sleeves) and statement necklaces. 

Collar and pearls to complete the look

However, as I was taking advantage of the Banana Republic sale last weekend, I found myself gravitating towards pieces that would make my dad proud: a tweed skirt and burgundy sweater.  I paired them with a button up and pearls, and when I looked in the mirror I saw my father’s style staring back at me (no, he doesn’t wear pearls!). 

Off to work I go!

Women tend to attribute their style to their mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and friends—the women in their lives.  But in this case, the credit goes to my dad.

Thanks, Dad.