How to Be Preppy

If you want to be a preppy teen, all you have to do is study the girls and guys in polo shirts and khakis at your school. The preppy look is a clean-cut, all-American look and easy to copy. The prep attitude takes a little more work. Money from your parents helps, but isn't completely necessary. Being a preppy teenager will almost always get you more respect from adults. Read on to learn how to be preppy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Look like a prep by dressing preppy. Clothes with brand names such as American Eagle, Abercrombie and Fitch, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger all fit into the preppy closet. Preppy kids will always choose 100 percent cotton over a synthetic fabric.
2. Find your signature preppy style. If this feels overwhelming, just wear khakis with a white polo or buttondown shirt. It's the prep uniform. Shop lower priced stores if you can't afford the high-end prep looks. Think Old Navy and Target. Thrift stores can be gold mines of expensive fashions at rock bottom prices.
3. Stride forward in flip flops, no matter what the weather. Wallabees are another good choice, and will at least keep your feet warm.
4. Make good grooming a religion. Clean, shiny hair is the hallmark of the prep. Keep your nails nicely trimmed and clean. A clear or pale pink polish is a good choice for preppy girls.
5. Take up tennis or golf. A preppy teen might also go for lacrosse, crew, sailing or horseback riding. Any expensive sport should suffice.
6. Mind your manners. You are courteous toward parents and teachers. You're even polite to the Goths and punks. Keep a smile on your face, and always be respectful of other people.
7. Develop a preppy attitude. You need to study and do well in school, approach college applications seriously and get involved in school and community activities. No one would ever think of you as trashy or fake.