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Preppy, coastal-inspired interiors are having a major moment—but this timeless, polished aesthetic is far more than a passing trend. And if you think it’s too expensive to do? Think again.
While preppy decor often evokes “old money” elegance and quiet luxury, you don’t need a hefty budget to achieve the look. With the right design choices and savvy sourcing, your dream preppy room is totally within reach. Here’s how to style a preppy space that feels crisp, classic, and curated—without the luxury price tag.
From full-blown preppy bedroom ideas requiring DIYs to a few preppy home accents, here’s how to get the look for less.
“Preppy” isn’t one-size-fits-all. Take a note from East Coast-style interiors. From light and airy coastal prep (think blue and white, light woods, and chinoiserie) to a more equestrian, collegiate, or academic vibe with rich plaids and tartans, nailing down your personal preppy style will help guide your furniture and decor choices.
Certain color combos are quintessentially preppy. Try blue and white for New England charm, pastel shades like pink, green, and yellow for that Lilly Pulitzer flair, or deep reds, navy, and hunter green for a more academic, Ralph Lauren meets Ivy League feel.
Preppy doesn’t mean you have to stick to beige. Use your palette to guide everything from bedding to accent decor.
Wallpaper instantly upgrades a space—and peel-and-stick options make it renter-friendly and budget-conscious. Choose timeless patterns like stripes, florals, toile, or plaid for an instant preppy pop.
Don’t forget the power of decorating with metal. Brass hardware is a hallmark of classic interiors. If you’re shopping secondhand or working with what you have, don’t underestimate the magic of brass spray paint or rub and buff—use it to refresh drawer pulls, lamp bases, or table legs for a cohesive, elevated look.
Preppy furniture has a timeless, tailored quality—and it can often be found secondhand. Look for upholstered armchairs, classic dressers, beautiful wood finishes, chinoiserie lamps or vases, and vintage art or mirrors.
Bonus tip: White paint and brass hardware can give any piece a preppy makeover. You can find curated, budget-friendly furniture at your local CORT Furniture Outlet—where upscale meets affordable.
Nothing says preppy like a monogram. Iron-on patches for pillows or throw blankets are a simple, affordable DIY that adds a personalized, prep-school touch.
Layering different patterns and textures adds the curated, intentional feel this style is known for. Incorporate knit elements, striped throws, and floral pillows or rugs to evoke the preppy spirit—there is no need to reupholster or repaint unless you’re ready to go all in.
A gallery wall or feature wall is the perfect way to showcase your preppy personality. Use vintage ski trail maps, collegiate pennants, coastal photos, or get creative! Think: framed scarves and patterned wrapping paper, pages from vintage books, or your own family photos.
Mix frame sizes and materials for visual interest–et voila!
Preppy interiors feel intentional—not one-note. Don’t be afraid to showcase your style, too. Layer a vintage quilt over a classic duvet, or mix chinoiserie pillows with modern ones. Mix modern with old, and don’t be afraid to pull in items you love into a vignette. The key is thoughtful contrast and a collected, rather-than-matched, vibe.
From tailored silhouettes to coastal touches, preppy decor is all about classic pieces that never go out of style. And the good news? You don’t have to pay luxury prices to achieve the look.
At CORT Furniture Outlet, we offer high-quality, stylish furniture at a fraction of the cost—perfect for creating a preppy room that feels polished without the splurge.
Our sustainable, circular model keeps 95% of our furniture out of landfills while giving you access to timeless pieces at outlet prices. Talk about a win.
Start browsing online or visit your local CORT Furniture Outlet today—and get the preppy look for less.
