Happy Prep for Today
Big, geometric prints and bold colors find favor with a new school of prep
When I think of preppy spaces, my thoughts initially turn to old money, yacht-inspired rooms, Lacoste sweaters and buckskin shoes. Over the past few years, there's been a shift in what is considered preppy, but all prepsters agree on one thing: Being preppy isn't just how you dress, it's also a lifestyle. New-school prep consisting of vivid colors paired with stark white and a dose of large scale geometric prints (think Jonathan Adler's Happy Chic), finds favor with both old and new pedigrees. Take a look at these spaces inspired by individuals who don the sharpest popped collars and decide if you fit into the preppy design spectrum. Tell us: Are old-school or new-school prep?
Preppy kelly green isn't just for the Irish. It awakens any space and appears even fresher in the presence of pure white fabric and a high-gloss floor and trim. Accenting the shower curtain — with a trio of stripes with a dark brown borrowed from the vanity and mirror — makes this bath equally appealing to both sexes. Lucky you!
Barstools upholstered in Barclay Butera's geometric kelly green and white fabric (Green-and-White Abstract" #69-31P) lend a preppy twist to this mid-century modern kitchen.
Versatile in color and pattern, wing chairs upholstered in the same Barclay Butera fabric create a prim and proper setting in this traditional living room. Its abstract pattern mimics the classic Greek-key motif seen in the coffee table and gives this formal space a youthful vibe.
The argyle pattern isn't just reserved for knitwear. Experiment with this diagonal checkboard pattern on the wall of a kid's room or to simply add a three-dimensional effect in your family's living space.
The artisan with the foresight of using mosaic tile to create a plaid floor was nothing short of a genius. The intricacy of the design combined with the furniture-turned-vanity catapults this two-piece bath into the ivy leagues.
A pink-and-green color combo paired with monogrammed pillows, without a doubt, exudes Southern prep. Using a base of black and white really makes this color scheme pop; so does the repeated damask and polka-dot patterns. Use your favorite Lily Pulitzer frock for inspiration when trying to pull off this look.
If traditional prep doesn't appeal to you, try this version of happy prep. A bright, whimsical shower curtain and pristine white walls and fixtures is all you need to pull together a clean look that's both fresh and fun.
The French Tournament Edition Backgammon & Chess
Old found objects also can evoke the prep-school aesthetic. This vintage chessboard and other accessories like these create a sense of nostalgia and pay homage to old-school prep decor.
More: Old School Prep and Modern Prep
More: Old School Prep and Modern Prep