Neo-Preppy Style: What It Is and Why You Want It
Bring a timeless touch of scholarly style to any room with these neo-preppy decorating ideas from HGTV Dream Home 2017.

Photo By: Tomas Espinoza
Photo By: Tomas Espinoza
Scholarly Style
Aiming to keep the look of the HGTV Dream Home 2017 classic and timeless, the design team packed the guest bedroom with preppy, scholarly style. From the plaid wallpaper to the touches of bronze, all elements of the space are meant to withstand the test of time and create an aesthetic replete with clean, simple masculinity.
Elements of Style
Preppy style is the antithesis of trendy and is often anchored in traditional hues like deep red, forest green, dark brown and neutral sand tones.
Red and Green
Mixing red and green together can easily result in a seasonal, holiday look unless you get the shades and tints of each color right. For a preppy spin, stick with burnt reds that have brown undertones and deep forest greenswith black tones. The earthiness of these tones will eliminate any chance of a more Christmas-inspired look.
Forest Green
With the exception of massive popularity in the 1990s, forest green tones have yet to become so popular that they fall into any sort of trend category. Keep the preppy look alive by layering different shades of forest green through elements such as bed linens, wall covering, art and accessories.
Earthy Browns
When it comes to neutrals in preppy spaces, know that charcoal, black and sand tones are the best fit. A bit more jazzy than beige or cream, these newer neutrals pack a bit more punch alongside more vibrant hues.
Mad for Plaid
When it comes to neutrals in preppy spaces, know that charcoal, black and sand tones are the best fit. A bit more jazzy than beige or cream, these newer neutrals pack a bit more punch alongside more vibrant hues.
Menswear Modern
In addition to plaid and tartan, menswear patterns also mix in well with preppy spaces. Try layering in checks for a bit of an elevated look.
Bring Home the Bronze
Metallics play a part in preppy interiors. The richest of them is bronze, which is easy to bring in with simple accents like table lamps and hardware.
Preppy Stripe
Stripes are one of the most iconic elements of preppy style. Try incorporating stripes underfoot in the form of area rugs. If you have other patterns in the space, choose a striped rug that’s different in scale from other patterns to keep the finished look from becoming busy or cluttered.
Bookish
One of the best adjectives to describe preppy rooms is well-read. Take literal cues from that and try incorporating books in interesting, fresh ways like this mix of vintage books in different colors displayed in book towers.