The classic American prep look is back, but not as you remember it. Tommy Hilfiger is redefining its heritage with modern fits and a relaxed attitude. Here are the key pieces that capture the 'New American Prep' for a timeless yet current wardrobe.
1. The Reimagined Rugby Shirt
Forget
the slim-fitting rugby shirts of the past. The new prep uniform calls for something with a more relaxed silhouette. Tommy Hilfiger's latest collections have featured rugby shirts in waffle-knits and modern cuts that feel less like a uniform and more like a statement piece. The modern interpretation plays with volume and texture. Look for versions with unique details, like an updated crest or unconventional color blocking, while still honoring the brand's iconic red, white, and blue palette. Style it over a miniskirt or with wide-leg trousers to nail the high-low aesthetic that defines today's preppy look.
2. The Modern Chino and Trouser
The chino is a cornerstone of prep style, but the 2026 version is all about the fit. Move away from the standard slim-cut and embrace more contemporary shapes like barrel-leg or wide-leg trousers. Recent Tommy Hilfiger collections have showcased double-pleated shorts and chinos with deck-inspired turn-ups, adding a nautical flair. These updated bottoms offer a more relaxed, city-inspired feel that pairs just as well with a sharp blazer as it does with a casual knit. The key is to find a silhouette that feels intentional and comfortable, moving the classic chino from a background player to a central element of the outfit.
3. The Updated Varsity Jacket
A varsity jacket has always been a symbol of collegiate cool, and it's a major focus in Hilfiger's recent vision of American prep. The new varsity jacket is more refined, crafted from premium materials like double-faced wool, cashmere blends, and even touches of leather. These aren't just for fall football games; they're presented as versatile outerwear that can be layered over everything from a cable-knit crewneck to a crisp buttondown shirt. Look for designs that feature subtle updates, like a rope logo treatment or a new crest, to signal a modern take on this timeless piece.
4. The Deconstructed Blazer or Trench
Tailoring is essential to the prep aesthetic, but the new look favors softer, deconstructed shapes. Hilfiger has shown blazers and trench coats that feel less rigid and more fluid, perfect for layering. Look for club blazers with a sporty feel or trench coats made from crinkled cottons that suggest a livedin ease. These pieces are designed to be functional and versatile, balancing sharp dressing with everyday utility. A slightly oversized blazer in a classic navy or a heritage check can instantly elevate a casual outfit of jeans and a polo, embodying the mix of casual and dressy that is central to the new prep.
5. The Elevated CableKnit Sweater
The cableKnit sweater is an undeniable prep icon, but the modern version plays with proportions and styling. While the classic crewneck remains a staple, recent trends favor sweater vests or oversized knits that allow for creative layering. Pair a Vneck sweater over an Oxford shirt for a timeless look, or wear a chunky, oversized fisherman knit with capri pants for a more contemporary, coastalinspired feel. Tommy Hilfiger's collections often feature these sweaters in tactile winter materials or as handknitted polos, proving that this classic can be both cozy and chic.
6. The LoosenedUp Oxford Shirt
The crisp buttondown shirt is a preppy foundation piece, but the new rule is to wear it with a relaxed attitude. Instead of a perfectly tuckedin look, style an oversized Oxford shirt worn open over a tank or halftucked into slouchy denim. Tommy Hilfiger's recent collections highlight this versatility, featuring heritage Ithaca and Breton stripes on shirting that feels fluid and easy. The goal is to make this classic piece feel less formal and more like an effortless layer, proving its adaptability beyond the office or campus.
