The US Open & The Return of “Preppy” Style: From Tennis Courts to Fashion Runways
New York, NY – A curious trend has been observed at recent high-profile events, from the US Open to fashion weeks in Europe: a purposeful embrace of a distinctly “preppy” aesthetic. Dubbed the “Coachellarization” of the US Open by some, this isn’t about individual style, but a collective leaning into a recognizable, almost uniform look – think crisp whites, polo shirts, and, notably, sweaters casually draped over the shoulders.
But why now? and why the sweater?
The look evokes a specific era – a time of inherited wealth and leisurely pursuits. While top athletes like Jannik Sinner and Carlos alcaraz wouldn’t be caught sporting the look on court, the image of a more affluent past, one associated with country clubs and relaxed privilege, persists.
In Germany, the style carries a more complicated history, linked to the “poppers” of the 1980s – a subculture that frequently enough flaunted designer logos. This association has unfortunately been tainted by recent events, including instances of racist displays by young people on the island of Sylt, where the look is a well-worn cliché.
However, the trend is gaining traction beyond its controversial associations. It’s been spotted increasingly on runways and with influencers, most notably in Jonathan Anderson’s debut collection for Dior Men, featuring a white shirt paired with a pink braid casually slung over the shoulder.
This isn’t entirely surprising. with brands like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, the preppy aesthetic is almost expected. But seeing it reinterpreted by a forward-thinking designer like Anderson, blending it with modern, even rococo, elements, signals a deliberate revival. The recent buzz surrounding the film Saltburn has further fueled this “New Preppy” vibe.
The origins of “Prep” lie in the