We’ve been having some cooler fall weather lately in New York City. Today it was overcast and actually a bit chilly in the late afternoon when I went out to run a few errands. I didn’t want to wear a coat. So I just threw a lightweight down vest on top of my shirt and sweater, turning the shirt cuffs back over the sweater and pushing the sleeves up a bit.
The total cost of all three items was less than $20.00: goose down vest from L.L. Bean ($7.99), 100% lambswool v-neck sweater from Cullen, a brand I’ve never heard of before ($4.99) and 100% oxford cloth button down from Gap ($2.99). While Gap is not an overly preppy company, their button down was very well-made, and the price made it impossible not to buy. I got everything at Unique thrift store (which I post about prolifically) in my neighborhood.
The preppy look never really changes. Of course, there have been some trendy tweaks recently by Tommy Hilfiger and Thom Browne among others. Their “preppy updates” were intended to gain traction with a younger consumer base after hipsters began raiding vintage shops and thrift stores, looking to make an ironic statement. It was not long before big names in the hip hop world began sporting the look. All of this doesn’t phase me. I simply like the classic, timeless preppy style I’ve always known – which is well-made clothes without gee gaws or doo dads. The way I dress hasn’t changed in any important way since college, aside from the addition of more suits or cap toe dress shoes.
Thrift Store Preppy 
That is a great color combo. I have a vest in a similar color of green and it is invaluable. It never looks out of place at work or on weekends. I like it with a navy sweater.
Thanks for your comments! I agree with you on the down vest. You can wear it in so many settings. It’s just the right amount of warmth this time of year.