As summer winds down and the shift back to school and office schedules sets in, it's no surprise when the seasonal ready-to-wear trends follow suit. Prep has been the go-to for this exact seasonal turn for decades—blazers, loafers, plaids, and collared shirts. What is new is how it's all being worn.
Heritage labels like Polo Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers are still the ones writing the rules, but this season's runways made some modern, creative edits. Vivienne Westwood channeled its punk ethos into an injected school uniform, Ann Demeulemeester brought an angsty edge to varsity stripes and velvet school sets, Conner Ives crested its polos, and Stella McCartney paired a colorful rugby with high-waisted jeans.
In 2026, we go traditional in a cable knit sweater and loafers, then break form with a pup-printed cap or a leather tie that wasn't part of the original dress code. Because here's the thing about prep: it might seem to have rigid rules, but this season is about knowing them well enough to break a few.
So whether you're back at a desk, back on campus, or just back in the rhythm of routine, prep season is here again. Ready to join the class? Take notes on the below.
Suit Yourself
Nobody does tailored tradition like Brooks Brothers (they invented the oxford shirt, dressed 40+ presidents, no big deal). Consider all the ingredients for the perfect uniform: an argyle sweater, a striped banker shirt, a houndstooth blazer, and an off-kilter touch, like a leather tie.
Bag: Booked
Every wardrobe needs a bag that can survive the daily grind, and Miu Miu's version makes hauling your life around easy. Mrs. Prada's take on prep swaps stiff monogram canvas for supple leather that actually gets better with wear. Opt for a briefcase-adjacent option like this caramel bowler, roomy enough for your laptop, snacks, and whatever else you need for your commute.
Prep In Your Step
Loafers and oxfords have been the standard-issue prep shoe since forever, and they're not going anywhere—but standard doesn't have to mean boring. This season trade flat soles for a heel like Chanel's block heel that keeps the collegiate DNA (hello, contrast cap-toe) while giving you a few extra inches of attitude.
Lead Image: Sweater, hat, and tie Polo Ralph Lauren.
Jessica (aka Jess) is a Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan, working across both fashion market and styling for print stories, as well as digital fashion and commerce coverage. Prior to joining Cosmo, she worked in fashion at Vanity Fair. Jess lives in New York City and loves spotlighting emerging designers you might not have heard of yet—while also being an unabashedly devoted Love Island fan (dating back to Season 1 of Love Island UK, that’s how serious). See more of her work here, and follow her on Instagram if you love her.
