Fashion Essentials: Gabrielle

{Hi Everyone! Rachel here, today a good friend of mine, Gabi will be sharing with you some of her preppy fashion essentials! You can find her blog at http://thelobsterpolo.blogspot.com Talk to you next time! And don't forget to check out her blog} 

A diverse, preppy wardrobe is accomplished by slowly accumulating pieces over time. 

Before I begin, let me gift you with a brief timeline of my style. 6th grade is characterized by sweat pants and graphic t-shirts daily. It made for the cutest photos, as you can imagine. I spent the summer before 7th grade restocking my closet with all things Forever21. Upon entering 8th grade, my closet was filled with jeans and various Forever21 shirts and pullovers, most patterned with fruit. I was quite the fashionista :)

Finally upon becoming a high schooler, I gradually developed some sense of style as well as a motivation to dress nicely. Personally, it was only a year and a half ago when I truly became interested in 'preppy' apparel (or genuinely caring about clothing).  

How does this tie into the post?

You see, the transition from "lazy" to "preppy" required me to start from scratch with my wardrobe. It's definitely not a crisis, but knowing where to start can be a challenge. It was for me. It's essential to begin a style with basic pieces that not only will last for a long time, but can also produce a variety of outfits. Before expanding into unique pieces, it's necessary to have a foundation to build off of. I'm here to tell you what those summer basics are!

Polos and Sleeveless Polos.

Available in a large selection of colors, polos are a classic staple in my summer wardrobe. They're easy to wear with anything and to any event. My personal favorites are by Tommy Hilfiger, Lilly Pulitzer, and Vineyard Vines. All three carry an abundance of shades and styles. I highly suggest starting with white, pink, and blue, as they all go well with virtually any bottom. Embroidered polos, while my favorite, limit your outfits, as they're not as versatile. Once you have solid polos, chase after the embroidered ones. If cost is an issue, TJ Maxx always seems to have Tommy Hilfiger polos on clearance (score). 

Modest, Solid Shorts.

Shorts are a necessity for summer, regardless of your taste. I prefer shorts with a 4" - 5" inseam, as their length is modest and doesn't limit movement. Before you throw all your money away purchasing every Lilly Pulitzer short under the sun, consider stocking up on a few pairs in a solid hue. Khaki, white, and a few other solid colors of choice are a great way to start. I enjoy J. Crew Factory 5" Chino Shorts, Vineyard Vines Dayboat Shorts, and Tommy Hilfiger Shorts. Similar to the polos, many embroidered options exist amongst shorts. As aforementioned, I recommend beginning with solid shorts, then exploring patterns and embroidery.

A Quarter Zip.

Quarter Zips, while providing warmth, have the ability to be worn casual or fancy with a variety of summer outfits. A sunset boat ride? Bike ride on a cool day? Morning walks on the beach? Don a quarter zip. My favorites, personally, are made by Vineyard Vines.

A Shep Shirt.

Vineyard Vines Shep Shirts, while on the pricier side, are a beautiful basic for a more casual take on classic style. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, Shep Shirts are a simple way to express yourself. Shep Shirts are perfect for cooler, windy days and summer nights. The solid navy Shep shirt is versatile, but I recommend choosing a Shep shirt you feel that makes you the happiest to wear. I, personally love to wear my  Watermelon Embroidered Shep Shirt and my Lobster Shep Shirt, two tops that aren't necessarily versatile, but bring me joy. Have fun with it - so many options exist.

A Solid Cardigan.

Cardigans in solid hues are versatile and comfortable. Start off with a few solid colors; navy and white can be styled with any outfit. Cardigans have the ability to take a casual shirt and shorts outfit to a new, classic level or a dress to a more conservative outfit. The best aspect is any store sells a cardigan, from TJMaxx to JCrew, so they're offered at many different prices. 

A Lilly Pulitzer Dress.

Every girl needs one Lilly Pulitzer Dress in her wardrobe. They're classic, stylish, and available in every color and print under the sun. The patterns range from floral to beach-inspired, so you're guaranteed to find a dress and pattern you fancy. You'd be surprised how beneficial owning a Lilly dress can be. Mine come in handy for various special occasions and days I'm longing for a fancier look.

A Pair of Jack Rogers.

These shoes have been universally deemed as a classic staple in the summer. They're available in many colors and styles, whether it be glittery gold or your sorority colors. Once broken into, these shoes are very comfortable and will likely be your go-to show for a polished look in the summer. For starters, I suggest purchasing a gold, white, or nude pair of Jack Rogers, as the three colors compliment any outfit and most colors. 

A Pair of Sperry Topsiders.

Boat shoes are heavily associated with prep. They're classic, comfortable, and look incredibly polished. A pair of timeless, brown Sperry Topsiders can withstand years of wear as well as years of various outfits. Topsiders are available in endless styles and patterns, but I recommend beginning with a versatile solid shade that will never go out of style, such as deep brown.

And there it is! The bare necessities of a classic, preppy wardrobe. If you begin with the above pieces, then you will be able to gradually build your closet into a collection that truly reflects your personality.

Have a beautiul day!

Gabrielle