That Preppy Italian Girl: Preppy Accessories

No classically preppy look would ever be complete without a few accessories. Whether that be jewelry, the perfect bag or the footwear you choose, you will need some accessories for a completely pulled together look. Below I will go through and highlight some of the most classically preppy pieces you should have in your wardrobe.

Pearls

First and foremost, of course, you can never call your look preppy without owning a string of pearls or some pearls studs at the very least. The preppy look puts pearls with absolutely everything from jeans to dresses. This small addition can instantly elevate a look from basic to classic.

My grandma's string of pearls is one of my go to pieces. I wear them with absolutely everything. I wore them in a heat wave to the county fair to visit the horses.

I wear them with nautical stripes.

I even wear them on casual days with my Vineyard Vines Shep shirts.

Print Scarf

Another important accessory is a good quality scarf. I don't just mean for warmth in the winter, although not much can beat a good quality cashmere scarf with a wool coat for warmth and style. I am referring here also to silky scarves, whether a square tied around the neck or a Twilly on your bag or wrist as a bracelet or even in your hair.

Leather Handbag

The next must have is a good quality leather handbag. This doesn't have to be a designer piece but should be the best your budget will allow. If you are going to stick with mainly only one bag, it should be in a neutral color as well such as tan, white, or black. You may also want to at least have two options. One being a larger tote like everyday bag to carry all of your essentials and a smaller cross body bag for going to events and activities where you would want to be more hands-free.

Monogrammed Tote

Another essential is a monogrammed tote of some sort. I am not referring here to anything like the LV Neverfull referenced above but rather an actual canvas tote. This piece will be handy running errands, heading to flea markets and farmers markets, as well as just organizing things in the car. Having a piece as well that is monogrammed is the perfect step above to make this a preppy must-have! One of the perfect places to find something like this is at Marleylilly. Of course, you do not have to have the monogram and can find very stylish totes in cute prints almost anywhere, but a monogram just adds that little something extra.

Footwear

Another common dilemma is trying to decide on the essential footwear pieces you will need if you are just beginning to build up your classic preppy wardrobe. Footwear again is a place where you should buy the best quality you can afford; these are pieces you will wear often. The cost per wear typically outweighs the initial sticker shock. Below are some of my suggestions.

Riding Boots are almost quintessential during fall and winter especially. These can be styled with leggings, dresses, and pulled over straight leg jeans for classic looks.

Another important "boot" style that will be worn in every season, is a good pair of Wellies. These can be high or low, depending on your preference. I wear my Wellies out on rainy days to run errands as well as when working in the garden. A quintessential brand for the preppy look is Hunter, but of course only buy what your budget allows. I wear my Hunter brand boots running errands but have a drug store pair for garden use.

Loafers are another essential footwear piece. In this category, I am not only including traditional penny loafer styles but also the Sperry boat shoe style. Both are my go-to slip on shoes that I wear constantly.