10+ sharp preppy hairstyles that will never go out of style

10+ sharp preppy hairstyles that will never go out of style

Preppy hairstyles feature smooth ponytails, gentle waves, and graceful high buns. This hairstyle is ideal for preparing for a formal function or a casual outing. These hairstyles can also last with the right styling products and hair accessories.

Blown out bouncy hair (L), Low Chignon bun (C), Side swept curls (R).
Blown out bouncy hair (L), Low Chignon bun (C), Side swept curls (R). Photo: @dianakoshbeauty, @thesuiteseat_, @simplybeautifuljamaica on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key takeaways

  • Popular preppy hairstyles include simple ponytails, French twists, blowouts, and bobs that never go out of fashion.
  • Bows, headbands, pearl clips, and tortoiseshell barrettes are signature pieces that elevate the preppy look.
  • Preppy styles can work with straight, wavy, curly, natural, or relaxed hair. It is all about how you style and finish the look.

Top stylish, sharp, preppy hairstyles

Preppy hairstyles have existed for a long time now. These hairstyles are elegant and appealing that they will never go out of fashion. They can be easy and complicated, depending on your hairstyle. Here are some of the most popular preppy hairstyles you can recreate.

1. Classy preppy bob

Classy sleek preppy bob (L). Bouncy bob (R)
Classy, sleek, preppy bob (L). Bouncy Bob (R). Photo: @lauraharrier, @ememyers on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

An elegant bob is an excellent choice for women who prefer to keep their hair short and neat. As one of the most timeless preppy hairstyles for medium hair, it is a versatile look suitable for business or any other formal occasion. Whether you opt for a sleek bob or bouncy curls, the style remains clean, simple, and effortlessly polished.

2. Sleek low ponytail

Long sleek low ponytail
Long, sleek, low ponytail. Photo: @thesleekbooth_, @getinwithcyn on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Ponytails are one of the most popular hairstyles. The style is straightforward to maintain. This preppy hairstyle is the way to go if you want something that lasts a week or two. You can dress it up with a ribbon, scrunchie, or clip to match your outfit or mood.

3. Voluminous blowout

Long sleek voluminous blowout with middle part
Elegant voluminous blow out with curls. Photo: @slayedbymyanicole, @karmenluxurystylz on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Looking for Preppy hairstyles for long hair? How about a long, huge blowout with a middle part? A voluminous blowout enhances the flow and body of your hair, creating a sleek and polished appearance.

To create volume, raise the roots and blow-dry with a round brush for an airy, bouncy look. 90s supermodels inspired this hairdo and made it a bold yet elegant statement.

4. Classic French twist

Classic French twist with curly drops
Classic high French twist. Photo: @chantellesmithmua, @hairstylist.mg on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Want a hairstyle that screams elegance and timeless prep? The classic French twist is your go-to. This updo is neat, sleek, and perfect for formal events, interviews, or days when you want to look effortlessly refined. It is minimal but makes a strong, graceful statement, perfect for girls who love structure with style.

5. Ponytail with ribbon

Ponytail hairstyle with ribbons
White (L) and Grey (R) ribboned ponytailed hairstyle. Photo: @muasamanthal, @moesbeauty on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Ribbons on your hair improve the natural appearance of the hair, giving it a more exquisite appeal. The ribbon can be placed at the top or rear of the hair. Whatever you want, it will still give you that look. This is one of the most popular Preppy hairstyles for schoolgirls.

6. Middle part blowout

Dark brown and blonde middle blowout
Bouncy middle part blowout. Photo: @radmanez, @theblonding_co on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Try this easy yet elegant hairstyle if you have long hair and want to do something other than leave it open. A modest central section is made elegant to complete the look. This hairstyle is layered, giving it a more effortless and sophisticated appearance. You can also wear a headband and lengthy earrings.

7. Classic hair with a bow

Polished hair with a bow ribbon
Loose, defined waves with classic bow clip (L), Side-parted weave with soft waves and a tied bow ribbon (R). Photo: @alpagalahairstylist, @beautybymaliani_ on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Nothing says preppy quite like a bow in your hair. You can wear the bow at the front or the back of your hair. Choose velvet, satin, or grosgrain bows in neutral or pastel shades for that polished, feminine touch. This hairstyle is perfect for brunch dates, school events, or a cute office look.

8. Preppy high bun style

Elegant and simple preppy high bun style
Preppy high bun style for medium hair. Photo: @naturallytracy, @playinginmyfro on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Whether you wear a classic high bun slicked back or a messy top knot, this hairstyle is attractive and functional, ideal for hot summer days and training sessions. The hair is gathered in a high ponytail and pulled into a neat bun. It keeps the hair out of your face elegantly. This is one of the most popular Preppy hairstyles for girls.

9. Loose waves with a headband

Long (L) and medium length (R) loose waves styled hair with headband
Long (L) and medium length (R) loose waves styled with a white headband. Photo: @lauren.derle, @phoebe.hair on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

This style has soft, loose waves and a headband wig for a preppy look. To achieve this look, curl your hair with a curling wand to produce delicate waves. Adding a silk or pearl headband enhances the overall look.

10. Braided crown hairstyle

Braided crown hairstyle for long hair
Simple braided crown hairstyle. Photo: @naturalhairloving, @wigsuperstore on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Braided crowns exude royal and exquisite style, ideal for weddings, festivals, and summer gatherings. These hairstyles include buckle-ups of hair and wrapping hair around the head to create a crown-like appearance. Use pins to fasten the braids tightly.

11. Rope braid ponytail

Cute rope braid ponytail
Rope braid ponytail for long hair. Photo: @watercoloursalon, @valessandro20 on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Looking for a chic twist on the classic ponytail? Try the rope braid ponytail. This style involves twisting two sections of hair around each other to create a rope-like effect, and then tying them into a ponytail. It works great on straight or slightly wavy hair and pairs beautifully with pearl pins or a ribbon at the base.

12. Preppy pixie cut

White pixie cut (L). Grey pixie cut (R).
White pixie cut (L). Grey pixie cut (R). Photo: @tinietashaa, @heatherannwallace on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Short hair can be just as polished and stylish as this preppy pixie cut. This neat, low-maintenance style is perfect for showcasing your features while keeping things chic and timeless. Ideal for girls who love effortless grooming. It is one of the best preppy hairstyles for short hair, giving off a confident, classic vibe with minimal effort.

What does preppy hair mean?

It refers to well-neatened, polished hair that looks elegant. Preppy hairstyles are all about that polished, put-together vibe. Examples include sleek ponytails, voluminous blowouts, classic French twists and rope-braid ponytails.

How can you style preppy hairstyles?

Preppy hairstyles can be styled by keeping the hair neat, polished, and structured. You can often have it as sleek or add some curls for a tidier look. Adding classic accessories like bows, headbands, or pearl clips enhances the preppy vibe effortlessly.

Are preppy hairstyles long or short?

Preppy hairstyles can be both long and short. The key is in the styling, not the length. Whether it's a sleek pixie cut or a voluminous blowout, what matters most is that the look remains clean, classy, and well-groomed.

Preppy hairstyles can perfectly be styled into ponytails, pixie cuts and bouncy bobs. These hairstyles are easy to maintain, making them perfect for anyone who loves looking polished without the fuss.

Legit.ng recently published an article on the latest weaving hairstyles for natural hair. For those who enjoy or prefer having their hair natural, weaving hairstyles is the best way. There are numerous styles to go for that will keep your hair protected from heat and breakage damage.

These hairstyles differ, and you can have them however you want. As for styling, kids can go for plastic beads, while adults may prefer to add metallic and wooden beads. These hairstyles are also simple to create at home, provided you have basic braiding skills.

Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Naomi Karina avatar

Naomi Karina (Lifestyle writer) Naomi Karina has been a digital content writer for more than two years. She joined the Legit team in August 2022. She graduated Bachelor of Commerce from KCA University in 2012. She also holds a Higher Diploma in Human Resources from the IHRM and a Diploma in Marketing from Kenyatta University. She is a content creator who enjoys writing about various topics such as biographies, entertainment and business. In 2023, Naomi finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. She expanded her skills in 2024 by undertaking the Google News Initiative course.

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