How to Make Your Room Preppy: A Complete Guide to Colors, Furniture, and Decor

In short

Color schemes and furniture choices are key to creating a preppy room. Opt for classic combinations like navy blue and gold, or white and pink. Incorporate traditional furniture pieces such as English roll arm sofas and rattan accents, and add preppy touches with monogrammed pillows and gingham patterns.

Color schemes for a preppy room

• Navy blue and gold: A perfectly preppy color scheme that looks striking when blue is used on base cabinetry or furniture, with gold as hardware and fixtures
• White and pink: Baby pink and gray warm up cool surfaces like marble countertops and bright white cabinetry in a traditional setting
• Teal blue with white and gray: Create a fresh, inviting space with teal blue as the main color, accented by white and gray marble, and gold accents
• Emerald green and gold: Stand out against a white background for a luxe, preppy feel
• Powder blue and cream: Popular in cottagecore and Nancy Meyers aesthetics, these colors make a room feel cozy yet fresh
• Coral and white: Perfect for small rooms, use coral on a wallpapered ceiling to draw eyes upward

Furniture and decor elements

• English roll arm sofa: Choose a custom English roll arm sofa in a luxurious fabric as a centerpiece
• Rattan accents: Incorporate rattan furniture to add a laid-back, coastal preppy vibe
• Built-in shelving: Frame windows with built-ins to create multiple sitting areas and storage
• Monogrammed pillowcases: Add custom monogrammed pillowcases for a polished, preppy look
• Bench seat: Include a bench seat as a cozy spot, especially near windows
• Jute or wool rug: Use a jute chenille rug or a darker grey wool rug to ground the space

Patterns and textiles

• Gingham: A quintessential preppy pattern that pairs well with plaid. Use it for drapes, upholstery, throw blankets, and pillowcases
• Nautical stripes: Combine with floral patterns for a laid-back, oceanfront-inspired look
• Border frame bedding: A timeless preppy staple that complements whimsical wallpaper
• Floral wallpaper: Choose eye-catching floral wallpaper for an old-money, collected look
• Plaid: Mix plaid with gingham for a classic preppy combination

Accessories and finishing touches

• Gold hardware: Use gold for drawer pulls, light fixtures, and other hardware to add a luxe touch
• Equestrian accents: Add subtle equestrian flair with horse-themed artwork or accessories
• Fabric headboard with canopy: Exude old-money elegance with a fabric headboard and tester canopy
• Bowties and ribbons: Incorporate these as decorative elements for a 2024 Gen Alpha preppy twist
• Smiley-face designs: Add playful, colorful smiley-face elements for a modern preppy touch