Coastal Prep
aka Nautical Prep, Beach Prep, Seaside Preppy
"Summers in New England, forever"
A maritime-inspired preppy aesthetic featuring navy stripes, white pants, boat shoes, and classic New England coastal style.
Atmosphere
The sensory world of Coastal Prep
Yacht clubs, lobster bakes, sailboat races, beach clubs, lighthouse views, seaside tennis
Philosophy
Tradition matters. Summer is sacred. Quality is timeless. Heritage is everything.
Who Lives Here
The character archetypes that embody Coastal Prep
The Sailor
The Summer Regular
The Yacht Club Member
The Coastal Heir
What It Rejects
Coastal Prep exists in opposition to:
Trend-chasing
Flashy fashion
Urban style
Modern minimalism
Daily Rituals
The practices and behaviors that define this way of living
Sailing
Beach club attendance
Lobster dinners
Tennis matches
Summer house traditions
Origin
Rooted in East Coast yacht club culture and New England prep schools, popularized by brands like Ralph Lauren and Vineyard Vines.
Era
1980s-Present
Regions
New England, Hamptons, Nantucket, Cape Cod
Trend Score
Key Elements
Key Garments
- •Navy blazers
- •White pants
- •Breton stripes
- •Boat shoes
- •Cable knit sweaters
- •Polo shirts
- •Khaki shorts
- •Canvas sneakers
Silhouettes
- •Classic
- •Tailored
- •Casual-elegant
Color Palette
Classic nautical palette of navy, white, and red
Primary Colors
Secondary Colors
Accent Colors
Key Brands
Materials
Cultural Context
Old money coastal lifestyle, yacht club culture, East Coast summer traditions, and nautical heritage.