Preppy fashion is having a major revival in 2025—and this time, it’s refined, confident, and completely wearable. According to new UK search data from Google Trends, analysed by experts at Superdry, the shift is clear: style-conscious shoppers are embracing smarter silhouettes, clean lines, and timeless staples that go beyond fast fashion.
Whether you’re updating your summer wardrobe or curating a chic capsule collection, these are the five must-have preppy items dominating search traffic right now. We’ve paired each one with expert styling tips to help you wear them with ease.
What’s Fueling the Preppy Fashion Revival in 2025?
With millions of users turning to Google to search for “tailored shorts,” “tennis skirts,” and “polo dresses,” it’s clear that summer fashion has taken a smarter turn. Post-pandemic comfort dressing is giving way to a more intentional approach: polished, practical, and inspired by classic collegiate style.
This trend isn’t just aesthetic—it reflects a desire for longevity, function, and effortlessly put-together looks that transition from brunch to bar.
1. Tailored Shorts – Smart and Structured
Projected increase in UK searches: 242 percent
Tailored shorts are set to dominate summer wardrobes, replacing denim cut-offs with elevated, structured shapes. Think crisp fabrics, pleats, and flattering high-waists that work from day to night.
How to style it:
Pair tailored shorts with a light blazer or crisp cotton shirt for a smart casual look that works at garden parties, rooftop dinners, or office-appropriate summer days. Add loafers or minimalist sandals and a leather belt to complete the outfit.
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2. Tennis Skirts – The Ultimate Preppy Staple
Projected increase in UK searches: 94 percent
Tennis skirts have moved off the court and into everyday fashion. Popularised by influencers and sporty-chic styling, they offer the perfect balance between nostalgia and trend-forward appeal.
How to style it:
Pair a pleated white tennis skirt with a fitted polo or cropped knit for classic preppy flair. Dress it down with a graphic tee and chunky trainers or go full collegiate with a crewneck and ankle socks.
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3. Shift Dresses – Minimalism Reimagined
Projected increase in UK searches: 83 percent
The shift dress is back on the fashion radar, thanks to its clean shape, comfort, and versatility. With a straight silhouette and modest finish, it’s an easy-to-wear essential for all ages.
How to style it:
Use the shift dress as a canvas. Layer with a cardigan draped over the shoulders, or add a bold belt to define the waist. Pair with ballet flats or strappy sandals, and elevate the look with a vintage-inspired hairband or oversized sunglasses.
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4. Polo Dresses – Polished, Comfortable, and Effortless
Projected increase in UK searches: 66 percent
The polo dress is an unsung hero of preppy fashion. Structured yet soft, it’s a throw-on-and-go option that suits almost every summer setting.
How to style it:
For daytime events, style with white trainers, delicate jewellery, and a woven tote. For evening drinks, add a slim leather belt, switch to wedges or slingback heels, and finish with a slick bun or low ponytail.
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5. Polo Shirts – The Classic That’s Now Trending
Projected increase in UK searches: 60 percent
The polo shirt is no longer just part of a uniform. It’s re-entering the fashion mainstream with newfound styling potential, thanks in part to celebrity endorsements and fashion houses reworking this classic piece.
How to style it:
Tuck a polo shirt into high-waisted denim or a structured midi skirt for an easy summer outfit. Alternatively, layer an open button-up shirt over your polo for a more relaxed look, or wear a cropped polo with linen shorts for weekend getaways.
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Expert Insight: Why Preppy Works Now
“The move toward smarter silhouettes is a reflection of how people are dressing post-pandemic,” a fashion expert at Superdry explains. “Preppy pieces like tailored shorts or tennis skirts offer structure without being overly formal. They’re stylish, functional, and timeless.”
Final Word: Classic, Confident, and Back in Fashion
This summer, fashion is all about elevated basics with personality. The preppy aesthetic offers a wardrobe filled with versatile pieces you’ll wear again and again—items that feel both trend-aware and investment-worthy.
So whether you’re curating a capsule wardrobe or updating your weekend outfits, now’s the time to embrace the rise of classic, college-inspired style. Preppy fashion isn’t just a throwback—it’s your smartest style move of 2025.
What is preppy fashion?
Preppy fashion is a timeless style rooted in collegiate, nautical, and classic American influences. Think clean lines, tailored pieces, crisp shirting, tennis skirts, loafers, and structured dresses. It blends sophistication with a relaxed, sporty edge.
Is preppy style trending in 2025?
Yes. Preppy fashion is seeing a strong resurgence in 2025, particularly in the UK. According to recent Google Trends analysis, items like tailored shorts, tennis skirts, and polo shirts are experiencing major search growth. This signals a widespread interest in structured, polished, and versatile summer staples.
How do I dress preppy in summer?
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, poplin, and linen
Prioritize clean tailoring (e.g. tailored shorts, shift dresses)
Layer lightweight sweaters over the shoulders or add structured cardigans
Opt for timeless colours: navy, white, pastel tones, camel, and blush
Accessorise with minimal gold jewellery, headbands, or a leather belt
What are the most popular preppy items this summer?
Based on UK search trends, these are the five most in-demand preppy fashion pieces for summer 2025:
Tailored shorts
Tennis skirts
Shift dresses
Polo dresses
Polo shirts
Each item is rising in popularity due to its comfort, adaptability, and nostalgic yet polished aesthetic.
Can you wear preppy fashion casually?
Absolutely. Preppy fashion works beautifully for casual wear:
Swap loafers for trainers
Wear a tennis skirt with a graphic tee instead of a button-up
Choose polo shirts in relaxed fits and breathable materials
Use accessories like canvas totes and baseball caps for a more laid-back finish
Are polo dresses flattering?
Polo dresses are flattering on a wide range of body types because they follow the natural line of the body without clinging too tightly. They can be cinched with a belt for added shape or worn loose for a relaxed silhouette. They also work for day-to-night transitions with just a change of shoes and accessories.
How do I style tailored shorts?
Tailored shorts can be styled up or down. For a smart summer look:
Pair with a sleeveless blouse or linen shirt tucked in
Add a blazer or structured jacket
Finish with loafers, slingbacks, or minimal sandals
For more relaxed days, wear them with a tucked-in ribbed tank and chunky slides.
Are tennis skirts still in fashion?
Yes. Tennis skirts are still trending in 2025, especially pleated white versions. They’ve evolved from athletic wear to everyday essentials. Style them with polos, crop tops, or oversized knits. They’re especially popular for festival looks, summer date outfits, and city breaks.
Can older women wear preppy fashion?
Definitely. Preppy fashion is one of the most ageless and classic styles. Mature preppy outfits might include:
A shift dress with a silk scarf and loafers
Tailored Bermuda shorts with a linen shirt
Polo shirts with white trousers or midi skirts
It’s about clean lines and effortless polish—not age.
How do I build a preppy capsule wardrobe?
Start with key pieces that can be styled multiple ways:
Tailored shorts in white or beige
One or two crisp polo shirts
A neutral shift or shirt dress
Lightweight knitwear (cardigans or a V-neck sweater)
Leather loafers or white trainers
Stick to a cohesive colour palette and add accessories slowly.
What fabrics work best for preppy outfits in summer?
Look for lightweight, structured fabrics that keep their shape:
Linen for dresses and shirts
Poplin cotton for button-downs
Twill or chino material for tailored shorts
Piqué cotton for polo shirts
These materials help retain a crisp, elevated silhouette while remaining breathable in the heat.
Which celebrities are embracing preppy fashion right now?
Hailey Bieber, Emma Chamberlain, Sofia Richie Grainge, and even Rihanna have all been seen styling elements of preppy fashion—like pleated skirts, blazers, and polos—with a modern twist. This has helped push the aesthetic into the 2025 mainstream.