The path to preppie-dom

MANILA, Philippines - When you think preppie, Blair Waldorf or Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl or Charlotte York from Sex and the City come to mind. And love it or hate it, the American high school-inspired attire is taking its cue from the blockbuster TV show Glee and this classic style is suddenly cool.

In spring runway shows, Christopher Kane’s interpretation of collegiate style was a rhombus sweater mixed with statement color midi skirt, a kind of bookworm look. Philip Lim will help you get full marks in style with menswear-inspired chunky cardigans, box shorts, fedoras, and stylish leather oxford shoes. Proenza Shoulder and DKNY prefer more feminine interpretation of a student wardrobe with sweet colors and classic spring accessories.

The good news is that you can achieve this look with key pieces available at SM:

The blazer. The prep style begins with the navy blue classic blazer. And teens don’t have to go to school to achieve the look. The puff-sleeved blazer for her or the classic one-button blazer for him can be worn off-campus.

The sweater. A sweater is an important element in layering. A plain or argyle sweater over a polo shirt or dress shirt can round out the look. This will work with every preppie boy or girl teen.

Anything plaid. Whether it’s a skinny headband, pants, or skirt, plaid is the pattern representing preps. It is always stylish to mix it with plain bright colors.

The boat shoes and saddle oxfords. These pairs are charming addition to the prep style. Girls can wear them in pants and skirts, while boys can keep it neat with straight-cut slacks or madras shorts.

Today’s teens can give a fresh spin to preppie essentials by mixing bright colors for a funky preppie style; or go ladylike with cute skirts and tops decorated with bows.

The collection is available at the Girls and Boys Teenswear Department of all SM stores.