One fashion trend you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2025? Preppy fashion. To fit in with the crowd, you’ll want to pick up a few preppy basics. And the thing is, these clothes will become the cornerstones of your wardrobe and elevate all types of outfits, not just preppy ones. Yep, everyone needs a basic button down, a good pair of slacks and a polo sweater. We found the best affordable options at Walmart so you can stock up without spending a fortune. Happy shopping!
1. Pretty Cardigan: Cardigan’s are a main reason why the bookworm-chic preppy look has skyrocketed in popularity. This houndstooth design gives the sweater an elevated edge you can wear with jeans or skirts. Regardless, you’ll always look like Blair Waldorf in this beauty — $23 (originally $50) at Walmart!
2. Some Chunky Loafers: You can’t nail the preppy look without a pair of loafers! We especially love chunky lug sole options, like this Madden NYC pick, that give you a little height boost — $20 (originally $26) at Walmart!
3. Can’t Forget a Polo: A polo shirt is essentially the mascot of the preppy fashion trend. Rather than your standard short sleeved polo, I recommend opting for a comfy polo sweater like this one — $15 (originally $28) at Walmart!
4. Yes, You Need Khakis: Don’t worry, this pair isn’t reminiscent of high school uniforms. They truly have the potential to become your favorite pants! — $12 at Walmart!
5. Button Up! Regardless of whether you’re partaking in the preppy trend, a crisp white button down shirt is a closet necessity. This affordable pick is a Walmart bestseller — $16 at Walmart!
6. Nerdy and Cute: To level up your style, you’ll want to layer this sweater vest (which features gorgeous cable knit stitching) over your button down shirt. Talk about preppy perfection! — $22 (originally $46) at Walmart!
7. Preppiest of All: Perhaps the most essential preppy basic is a pleated skirt. You can up the ante by choosing a plaid option, like this on-sale pick. You’ll be channeling your inner Cher Horowitz all 2025 long — $10 (originally $19) at Walmart!
8. As Classic as it Gets: My ballet flats were my favorite part of my preppy school uniform, and it brings me so much joy that they’re back in style. I’ve already added these flats to my cart — $10 (originally $32) at Walmart!
9. Preppy Boss: Everyone will know you mean business when you walk in wearing a tailored blazer, like this one from Attitude Unknown. I especially love the unique button placements — $20 (originally $40) at Walmart!
10. One More for the Pattern: It’s not acceptable to have just one sweater vest. You need multiple patterns to curate a solid preppy wardrobe. This on-sale pick is never going out of style — $7 at Walmart!
17 Not-So-Basic Basics That Will Make You Look Like a Fashion Editor
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