As the temperature drops, the timeless appeal of preppy style offers a chic and practical solution for winter dressing. To demonstrate its versatility, YOU magazine's head of channel, Tracey Lea Sayer, has modelled a classic ensemble, showcasing how this look can be adapted to suit any budget.
Three Tiers of Preppy Perfection
The core outfit consists of classic straight-leg jeans, a crisp shirt, a cosy jumper, a statement scarf, and a pair of sturdy boots. The magic lies in the sourcing, where price points vary dramatically. We present three complete looks: a low-cost option, a mid-range selection personally chosen by Tracey, and a high-end luxury edit.
The Budget-Friendly Build: Total £225.98
Proving style doesn't have to break the bank, this ensemble totals under £226. It features a jumper from New Look for £24.99, a shirt from Marks & Spencer's Autograph line at £50, and jeans from Albaray costing £89. The accessories include a scarf from ASOS for £12 and boots from Off The Hook at Debenhams for £49.99. This look is perfect for those seeking a smart, seasonal update without a significant financial outlay.
The Mid-Range Choice: Tracey's £934.99 Pick
For a more elevated take, Tracey Lea Sayer's personal mid-range selection combines high-street and premium brands. The foundation is a £64.99 jumper from H&M and a £185 shirt from Ba-Sh. The denim comes from a heritage brand, with Levi's jeans priced at £110. The standout piece is a luxurious scarf from Kinalba at Wolf & Badger, costing £345, finished with boots from Gant for £230. This tier represents a considered investment in key pieces.
The Luxury Investment: High-End at £4,253
At the pinnacle of the market, the preppy look transforms into a luxury wardrobe statement. This version features designer pieces from leading fashion houses. The Khaite jumper costs £1,530, while the shirt by Jacquemus is £450. The jeans from Reformation are £178. The accessories are particularly opulent, with a scarf from The Row at £1,200 and boots by Proenza Schouler for £895. Most of these items are available via Net-a-Porter and Farfetch.
The model's hair was styled by Dayna Vaughan-Teague using Oribe products, and make-up was applied by Levi-Jade Taylor at Carol Hayes using Makeup by Mario.
Styling for the Season Ahead
This breakdown clearly illustrates the expansive range of the fashion market. Whether you're prioritising value, seeking a balanced edit of high-street and designer, or aiming for an all-out luxury spend, the preppy winter blueprint remains consistent. The key takeaway is that personal style is accessible at multiple levels, allowing everyone to craft a polished and warm outfit suited to chilly British days.
