Fall on campus is unmatched—crisp air, cozy cafés, football games, and, of course, the opportunity to show off your autumn wardrobe. Whether you’re heading to class, studying in the library, or hitting a weekend brunch spot, your outfit says a lot before you even speak.
Preppy style has long been a go-to on college campuses—clean, polished, timeless—but it doesn’t have to feel stiff or one-note. This season, take your college girl fall fashion up a notch with layered looks, classic prints, warm tones, and modern pairings that give preppy a fresh spin.
Here are 15 preppy fall outfits that are totally perfect for campus life—easy to wear, versatile, and definitely camera-roll worthy.
Knit Dress with Belt and Loafers
A body-skimming knit dress feels sophisticated and easy. Belt it at the waist and pair with chunky loafers or riding boots. Toss on a cardigan or blazer to layer. This one’s ideal for days when you want to feel grown—but still comfy.
Sweater Vest and Button-Up Shirt
Start with a classic: the sweater vest layered over a crisp button-up. Pair with pleated trousers or a skirt and loafers to fully lean into the chic preppy fall look. Stick to neutral or earth-tone vests for a more autumnal feel.
Trench Coat with Layered Basics
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Trench coats instantly elevate any look. Layer one over a sweater and leggings, or a dress and tights for that effortless preppy fall wardrobe idea. You’ll look like you walked off the set of a fall rom-com.
Collared Sweater and Tailored Shorts
A collared knit adds instant prep without a full button-up situation. Wear with longer tailored shorts, tights, and loafers or Chelsea boots. It’s cozy enough for chilly mornings, light enough for indoor lecture halls.
Varsity Jacket and Wide-Leg Jeans
Preppy meets sporty. A varsity-style jacket makes anything feel campus-ready. Wear it with a basic tee, jeans, and white sneakers for a laid-back campus-style fall look that still feels pulled together.
Preppy Plaid Set
Matching sets are a no-brainer when you’re in a rush. A plaid mini and matching cropped jacket or blazer is as “preppy college girl” as it gets. Wear with tall boots or mary janes and a top knot for a nod to classic academia.
Argyle Sweater and High-Waisted Jeans
Argyle is a preppy print staple. Balance an oversized argyle sweater with fitted high-rise denim and polished accessories. For extra fall feels, choose shades like mustard, navy, or burgundy.
Rugby Shirt and Mini Skirt
Channel vintage prep with a striped rugby shirt and a solid mini or skort. Add white crew socks, sneakers, and maybe a tote with your campus emblem. Comfortable and cool — a go-to fall look for students on casual days.
Tennis Skirt and Knit Cardigan
Tennis skirts don’t have to stay in summer. Add tights, a soft cropped cardigan, and ankle boots, and you’ve got the ultimate preppy outfit for college—cute, comfy, and ready for class or a coffee date.
Cable Knit Sweater and Mini Skirt
A thick cable knit paired with a plaid or corduroy mini skirt screams preppy autumn outfit. Add knee-high socks or sheer tights and loafers if you’re going full prep school aesthetic.
Oversized Blazer and Denim
Blazers are having a moment—especially when styled casually. Throw one over a fitted turtleneck with mid-wash jeans and sneakers. It’s preppy, yes, but not too try-hard. Perfect for creating a low-key power look that still qualifies as fall outfit for students.
Monochrome Neutral Layers
Preppy style loves clean lines, and nothing says polished like a head-to-toe neutral outfit. Think beige trousers, a cream knit sweater, and a camel coat. It’s giving autumn campus fashion with a side of Pinterest energy.
Polo Shirt and Trouser Combo
A tucked-in polo—striped or solid—adds just enough prep to balance tailored trousers or wide-leg jeans. This one’s ideal for that 8AM lecture where you want to look awake and intentional (even if you only had one coffee).
Turtleneck Under a Slip Dress
Take a summer fave and make it fall. Layer a slim-fit turtleneck under a satin or knit slip dress and finish with boots and a crossbody. This look leans into back-to-school fall style with a lightly vintage vibe.
Oxford Shirt Under a Crewneck
This one’s a preppy classic. Layer a crisp white oxford under a crewneck sweatshirt with your college name or just a minimalist logo. Add leggings or relaxed cords and a canvas tote. Peak “walk to class but make it fashion” energy.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to preppy fall outfits, it’s all about mixing tradition with personal style. Think polished staples with modern twists: classic prints like plaid and argyle, cozy knits with structure, tailored bottoms, and chic layers you can always count on.
Whether you lean minimalist, girly, sporty, or vintage-academic, preppy style can flex to fit your own vibe. So as you head into another semester, don’t overthink it—grab those fall classics, layer up thoughtfully, and show up to class knowing your outfit’s doing the talking for you.
Campus life is busy enough. Let your wardrobe be the easy part.
