Even the preppy country club/Ivy League set are known to have a bit of a hipster streak. While brands like Polo, Lacoste, Brooks Brothers, and J Crew are household names that embody the ideals of traditional preppy style in America, these mass-produced clothiers tend to offer a watered-down version of preppiness that does not satisfy the thoroughbred connoisseur of preppy fashion. For those prepsters seeking a traditional preppy look that does not pander to the masses, but instead offers looks tailored to more specific and discerning tastes, the following six companies offer an assortment of preppy clothing that can satisfy even the most jaded yuppie.
Belted Cow
Belted Cow is a specialty company that focuses on belts, specifically the classic preppy D-ring style belts. The company offers full customization options so you can have belts made with the logo of your prep school, country club, yacht club, or shipping business. Belted Cow even makes dog collars for Fidos of the preppy persuasion.
Bird Dog Bay
Bird Dog Bay specializes in neckties and bow-ties featuring traditional Southern preppy motifs. The company also makes cuff links, cummerbunds, belts, and pocket squares with similar themes. The brand offers a Southern spin on the traditional preppy vibe of brands like Vineyard Vines. Themes of Bird Dog Bay’s ties and other accessories include things such as “deer season,” “fowl play,” and “the trophy room.
Collared Greens
Collared Greens is a preppy clothing company specializing in ties. The company offers a broad selection of standard ties and bow-ties in preppy patterns like plaid and gingham, as well as finely striped fabrics emulating the look of seersucker. Collared Greens products are made in America and the company donates a portion of each sale to “green” causes.
Smathers & Branson
Smathers & Branson specializes in needlepoint accessories. The company’s offerings of 100% hand-stitched needlepoint work extends to belts, cuff links, wallets, key fobs, golf visors, and flasks. Smathers & Branson also offers a line of collegiate-themes accessories, as well as fraternity and sorority gear.
Southern Proper
Southern Proper makes a full-range of preppy clothing items with a Southern influence. The company’s line exudes “Southern gentleman,” allowing for a bit of regional influence on the classic preppy wardrobe. Collegiate-themed items are also available, mainly catering to traditionally Southern universities.
Vineyard Vines
Vineyard Vines is the most prominent full-range maker of specialty preppy clothing. The company offers one of the largest selections of classic American clothing and accessories that exudes preppy style, embodying the country club aesthetic. Vineyard Vines offers collegiate-themed apparel, as well as official NFL, MLB, and NHL accessories. The spring of 2013 marks the launch of the Vineyard Vines Kentucky Derby Collection.
The contributor loves adding regionally-inspired pieces to his wardrobe of preppy staples.
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