Preppy Chic: Grey Sweatshirt 5 Ways

While it might be tempting to bundle up in your sweats when waiting for warmer weather to return, these ubiquitous articles of clothing don't necessarily equate to chic fashion statements...or do they? Today Show and Us Weekly style contributor, Jill Martin, came up with 5 Ways to Make a Sweatshirt Look Sexy. Loving versatility in clothing, but not actually owning any sweatshirts, I found a lightweight sweater that masquerades a sweatshirt, and thought I'd give these fabulous alternatives to sporty sweatpants a try.

1. Old Navy, Tab-Sleeve Crew-Neck Sweater in Pale Grey
2.  Riders by Lee, short sleeve hidden placket in black gingham
3.  The Limited, Exact Stretch Ede Waist Ankle Pant in Persimmon

Trendy, casual and fun are the elements of this preppy chic look.  The persimmon colored cropped- ankle-length pant (3) are on trend this season in both color and cut, while the gingham print shirt (2) when mixed with brights, brings a dynamic contrast to the ensemble is exudes fun; when paired with a grey sweatshirt (1), the entire look has a casual vibe!

1, 2, 3 Chic!

1, 2, 3 Chic!

Preppy can often have the connotation of being juvenile, so one way to make the look more adult-like is with a statement pair of footwear.  These suede open-toe booties with the metal grommet details add a bit of edge to your ensemble and are perfect when transitioning between cold and warm seasons. 

Keeping with the 'Preppy' look, what screams collegiate more so than a cross-body bag?  Instead of canvas, try one in a luxe suede fabric with leather trim to give your look a 'chic-er' vibe.

Bangles are a fun addition to any outfit; lucite, is trending big for the spring and summer, why not try a bangle in this nouveau-chic plastic?  Go big or go home, go for a big size, a bright color or a bold design!  I mixed my bangles, choosing two in the same design but different metallic hues because the accents on my bag were silver while the grommets on the boot were gold.

 

How I Styled It?

1, 2, 3 Styling is easy when you know what look you are trying to achieve; preppy chic is achievable, but look too youthful if you try to embrace it fully.  Keep your accessories sexy and sophisticated (two words which do not come to mind when you think of preppy) to convey a mature look.  You want to look like a college student, not be mistaken for one!  SN