Think 'preppy' and most of us think of items in our wardrobes that fit this aesthetic - pastel shades, lots of linens, monograms, and a bounty of classic patterns - polka dots, paisley, stripes - the works! The good news for proponents of this subculture is that the design style has infiltrated the home decor space, and it seems to be here to stay. Join us as we analyse a project from one of our favourite interior designers, Shabnam Gupta, the founder of The Orange Lane. According to Shabnam, "This home is a reflection of the designer’s take on modern contemporary interior designing. Be it the use of a sewing machine as counter support in the powder room, or the artwork wall with the hand-painted niches in the library - all the elements offer a quirky edge to the home. The telephone installation over the console in the dining area, along with the printed upholstery, come together to add a touch of fun to space. The telescope crowning the side table adds a quirky, old-world charm to the home. In all, the elements in each room come together, to create an elegant, vibrant home."



#Tip 1: Layered Patterns

The beauty of going preppy in the home is that you can have as much fun as you want - and you will probably not go wrong. This design style is all about paying homage to a bouquet of prints - more is definitely better, for this look! Prints that scream 'preppy' include plaid, the aforementioned stripes and polka dots, paisley, houndstooth and so much more. To ensure some level of visual continuity, feel free to layer the prints, but keep them all within a similar colour story. If you find the number of patterns you're layering to be too overwhelming, consider introducing some complementary texture as well, through the soft furnishings.



#Tip 2: Traditional Palettes

Experts in the preppy style seem to swear by certain colours that define the look. A combination of pink and green for example, is considered classic 'prepster.' Navy and white, pastels, salmon and celery (let's be honest - fancier words for the beloved pink and green combination again!) are all considered front-runner picks for this decor style.



#Tip 3: Verdure Everywhere

Preppy furnishings are not considered complete without a preponderance of greenery - indeed, some enthusiasts decorate their homes with so many botanical prints that one would be forgiven for mistaking the interiors for a greenhouse! You can either go all out with a leafy wallpaper (proponents of this style prefer large, oversized prints), or introduce the look in a more subtle way, through cushion covers, or actual, leafy plants.





Picture Source

Green Leaf Cushion Cover



#Tip 4: Classic Furnishings

Preppy furnishings hew to traditional profiles and time-honoured materials. Think club chairs, Chesterfield sofas (especially in leather) and bamboo étagères. Authentic Oriental rugs and kilims dress the floors — when they're not left bare to showcase beautiful hardwoods.







Freshen old-school furniture with a few newer pieces that retain a hint of the preppy look. The coffee table above wouldn't be out of a place in an industrial setting, yet its mellow patina feels right at home in a room full of gently worn counterparts.



#Tip 5: Monograms

Another seemingly essential element of preppy style is monogramming. If you thought having your initials on things was pompous, think again! This is the only decor style that will actually celebrate the fact that your 'stamp' is prevalent everywhere. Previously reserved for handkerchiefs only, monograms can be seen everywhere in preppy homes - on bedding and towels to barware, aprons, candles, picture frames and so much more!



#Tip 6: Nautical Accents

To take preppy to a whole new level, consider incorporating maritime touches that will speak of boating - a classically preppy activity! The easiest way to do this is by creating a statement wall with navy and white stripes. Decorating a powder room in that style could also be a great option. Needlepoint cushions with embroidered accents such as anchors or oars are another fun touch.



#Tip 7: Vintage Accessories

Preppy homes celebrate their hand-me-downs and family heirlooms in an artful way. Old steamer trunks, vintage suitcases and more whisper of a worldly, well-travelled lifestyle. Items that hint at the sporting life, such as old tennis racquets or riding gear, feel pitch perfect as well.





Retro Telephone



#Tip 8: China in Preppy Patterns

Incorporate preppy touches into your dining area with china in colours or patterns that speak to this trend. Everyday dining will become all the more fun when dressed up in shades of blue and white, or geometric prints.





White and Blue Cups

Ceramic Tea Set



Considered a classically American style, preppy looks for both fashion or the home can be easily incorporated into your life, with these simple tips. What do you think? We would love to hear from you on how you've introduced this trend into your own home! Find us on Twitter and Instagram @DiscernLiving