Preppy Look for Girls
A: The preppy hair aesthetic is all about understated elegance and timeless sophistication. Think of the classic New England boarding school girl or the chic women you might see at a country club brunch. Their hair always looks perfectly put-together without appearing overly styled or trendy.
When it comes to specific styles, simplicity reigns supreme. A low ponytail positioned at the nape of the neck is perhaps the most iconic preppy hairstyle. This ponytail should appear effortless. Secure your hair with a simple elastic band in a neutral color like brown, black, or navy that either matches your hair or coordinates subtly with your outfit. Avoid flashy hair ties that might draw too much attention.
The classic headband, or Alice band as it's traditionally called, is another preppy staple that's both practical and polished. Choose headbands in tortoiseshell, solid colors that complement your wardrobe, or subtle patterns like thin stripes. The headband should sit comfortably about an inch back from your hairline, holding back any face-framing pieces while allowing the rest of your hair to fall naturally.
For days when you want to wear your hair down, the key is achieving a smooth, controlled look without appearing overly styled. A simple blowout that creates gentle movement and shine is ideal. If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, work with your texture rather than fighting it. Use a light smoothing cream to tame frizz and define your natural pattern without making it look crunchy or overly product-heavy.
When it comes to hair accessories, less is definitely more. A simple silver or gold barrette, a tortoiseshell hair comb, or a silk scarf tied as a headband can add an elegant finishing touch without overwhelming your look. Avoid anything too sparkly, colorful, or attention-grabbing.
Color-wise, the preppy aesthetic tends to favor natural-looking hues. If you choose to color your hair, stick to shades that could believably be your natural color or subtle highlights that add dimension without looking artificial. Bold fashion colors, dramatic ombre effects, or stark contrasts don't align with the preppy look.
The overall philosophy behind preppy hair is that it should look like you were born with naturally perfect hair and simply rolled out of bed looking effortlessly polished. This means avoiding hairstyles that require obvious effort or maintenance throughout the day. Your hair should complement your preppy wardrobe - those crisp oxford shirts, tailored blazers, and classic cardigans - rather than competing with it.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
What does your appearance say about your personality?
How to look good in stripes
The "Boyfriend Fashion" trend