As the 2025 holiday shopping season approaches, fashion editors are noting a significant resurgence in preppy aesthetics, which is being propelled by a wave of celebrity endorsements. Influential figures like Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, and Alexa Chung have embraced these timeless styles, drawing attention to elements such as powder-pink color palettes and ‘80s-inspired tailoring. This resurgence not only reflects a return to heritage codes of classic prepwear, but also incorporates fresh, modern twists that appeal to today’s fashion-forward consumers.
The preppy aesthetic, which has long been associated with Ivy League-inspired looks and sporty, polished silhouettes, is seeing a new life in late 2025. Fashion houses, designers, and influencers are revisiting traditional prep staples—such as rugby shirts, structured blazers, and pleated skirts—while updating these items with a contemporary flair. The influence of street style is undeniable, adding an edge to what would otherwise be seen as conservative, heritage-driven clothing.
Soft pastels, particularly shades of powder pink, have emerged as a standout color choice for the season. This delicate hue, often associated with femininity and youthfulness, is being paired with strong, angular silhouettes, like bold-shouldered blazers and structured coats, which are reminiscent of the power dressing seen in the ‘80s. This combination of softness and strength is appealing to a wide range of fashion lovers, from those looking for a nostalgic touch to those seeking a statement piece to add to their winter wardrobe.
In addition to the soft color schemes, logo-centric designs and graphic accents are also making a significant return. These elements add an element of playfulness to the otherwise refined preppy look, appealing to the current generation’s penchant for personalization and brand identity. Celebrities and influencers are often seen sporting these pieces, turning them into highly visible, aspirational fashion statements. By showcasing these looks on their social media platforms and at high-profile events, they are giving these trends widespread visibility, which in turn drives consumer interest.
The timing of this trend is also notable. The transition from mid-November into the holiday shopping season represents a crucial moment for brands and retailers to capitalize on these fashion cues. With Veterans Day marking a natural shift in the buying season, shoppers are looking for pieces that will carry them through the colder months and into the New Year. The preppy revival, with its versatility and timeless appeal, is a perfect fit for this period. It provides an opportunity for brands to highlight winter collections, offering consumers stylish and sophisticated options for holiday gifting.
Celebrity endorsement has always been a powerful force in the fashion world, and in 2025, it seems that the preppy look is no exception. The endorsement of celebrities like Hailey Bieber, who has frequently been spotted in tailored blazers and soft pastel hues, or Gigi Hadid, who embraces a more sporty, casual take on prepwear, has given these trends a fresh, modern twist. Their ability to blend classic elements with their personal style creates an aspirational aesthetic that many consumers are eager to replicate.
In many ways, this trend also reflects a broader cultural shift toward heritage and nostalgia. As fashion houses lean into these traditional styles, they are also acknowledging the cyclical nature of fashion. What was once old is now new again, and many consumers are eager to embrace the timeless quality of preppy looks with a modern, fashionable spin. These trends also speak to a growing desire for clothing that is both functional and stylish—items that can be dressed up or down, worn to work or on the weekend, and still maintain an air of sophistication.
Looking ahead, the preppy revival is likely to continue its dominance in the fashion world, especially as we head deeper into the winter months. The trend offers a wealth of styling opportunities for those looking to create versatile, polished looks with just the right balance of tradition and modernity. Whether through the use of powder pink tones, bold-shouldered tailoring, or logo-accented designs, the preppy aesthetic is poised to be a mainstay for the remainder of 2025, influencing both high-end fashion houses and everyday street style alike.
