The Prep Revival: Thom Browne’s Timeless Take on American Style

Trend forecasters are predicting a resurgence of prep style, a classic all-American look that originated in mid-century country clubs and gained popularity in 1980s movies. With a 17-year-old scouring vintage shops for polo shirts and Luca Guadagnino working on a new adaptation of American Psycho, it seems like the prep trend is making a comeback.

Thom Browne, a designer known for his timeless and classic aesthetic, is not surprised by the potential revival of prep style. “I love the timelessness and ease of the prep world,” he says. “I believe in real clothes worn in real ways, not something too precious. And in terms of sustainability, these pieces can be worn forever.”

In Browne’s latest collections for both men and women, the iconic Thom Browne crests adorn jackets and coats, featuring symbols like tennis racquets, swimmers, anchors, and the year 1965 (Browne’s birth year). These pieces evoke the essence of the prep lifestyle and are perfect for country club gatherings or pool parties. From handknit argyle cardigans to technical cordura rain jackets, the collection exudes classic American style.

Browne’s attention to detail extends to his tailoring, with a focus on gray suits, custom plaid tweeds, and silk mogadors. He pushes the boundaries of traditional suiting by incorporating unique elements like maillot-shaped corsets and trompe l’oeil effect bikinis in his designs.

As the brand celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Hector bag, expect to see various iterations of the iconic dog-shaped accessory. Palladian window prints and embroideries pay homage to Browne’s latest project: the restoration of an 18th-century house in upstate New York.

With a nod to the past and an eye towards sustainability, Thom Browne’s take on prep style offers a fresh perspective on classic American fashion. As the trend forecasters predict a prep revival, Browne’s collections serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of this timeless aesthetic.