Where’s the fun in living by the book when you can write your own codes to live and swear by – especially when we’re talking all things style and self-expression?
There’s no right or wrong way to flaunt your authentic approach to fashion; after all, it should reflect your evolving identity, sartorial sensibilities and how you're making today’s niche, emerging trends completely your own. Of course, curating a signature look is made easier when you’re working with essential, everyday basics that can either be elevated – or dressed down, depending on the occasion. Staple silhouettes like Levi’s® modern denim cuts or cozy crewneck sweaters – think the new Baggy Barrel Jeans and Loose Taper Jeans – serve as a blank canvas to bring your unique interpretation to life.
The quintessential all-American brand boasts a timeless lineup that doesn’t skimp on style, substance, or sophistication. Levi’s® sets the stage for you to channel that collegiate charm through your own lens. Highsnobiety rose to the occasion and harkened back to the iconic 80s’ Preppy Handbook – which put a satirical spin on the do’s and don’ts of what it takes to be dressed for the quad – by creating our very own heritage style guide to mastering modern prep looks, inspired by Levi’s® new Loose Prep collection.
Brimming with classic prep codes, retro influences and relaxed silhouettes, from the Union Rugby Shirt and Supersoft Long-sleeve Polo to the XX Chino and Judice Western Shirt, Levi’s® latest line leads the way for a candid conversation led by Highsnobiety’s Senior Editors, Jason Meggyesy and Kayla Curtis-Evans, on their own rules and regulations for self-expressive style. From playing with pops of color to doing the absolute most with statement prints and patterns – in the best way possible – our next-gen authorities on all things à la mode break down a few codes for practicing personal style in the Highsnobiety Playbook to Prep.
Your go-to guide to being collegiately fly is just a few scrolls away.
RULE 1: FASHION HAS NO GENDER, OR SIZE
What was that about traditional gender roles? All we know is, they don’t exist around here, and our wardrobes are thankful. Same goes for those beauty and body standards – don’t let anyone size you out of style.
KaylaWhen I was younger, I used to wear boy clothes, or outfits that weren’t necessarily deemed 'girly.' My mom didn’t want to assign certain ways of dressing to me before I could figure out what I really liked. As I developed my own personal style, it became very whimsical.
RULE 2: PRINTMAXXING
The bolder the better. We were born to stand out. Don’t shy away from those loud prints and patterns made to make you the moment.
KaylaI love printmaxxing. Wearing things that don’t go together. I’m a huge fan of maximalism because I think fashion is one of the most visible canvases of self-expression that we have.
RULE 3: THERE'S LAYERS TO THIS
Something's missing, you say? It might just be a little layered moment to take your look to the next level. Don’t let the seasons hold you back; whether it’s summer or winter, layering is always in style.
KaylaIf you’re wearing something simple, adding an element like a shirt around the waist gives the look more dynamic visual appeal.
RULE 4: FOLD IN A POP OF COLOR
When you're ready to pop out, you know what to do. A bright burst of color adds that je ne sais quoi your ‘fit was missing.
JasonJust have fun [with it], man. It’s all about expression and colors [are] the best at communicating those emotions and ideas that are sometimes hard for us to do on our own.
RULE 5: DON'T THINK TO HARD
Let loose and let your intuition take over. Your best looks happen when you're not even trying.
JasonStyle is an ever-evolving thing, but at a certain point, you kind of know what works well for you. From there, it should be easy to select things that feel like you.
RULE 6: WEAR IT WITH CONFIDENCE
There's that saying about "faking it til you make it" – why not start with your closet? Let the clothes boost your confidence and watch everything else fall into place.
JasonIt’s called personal style for a reason. Everything you put on should feel good and make you feel good. It’s meant to uplift you. No room for [feeling] small when you step out of the crib.
KaylaStep up to the 'fit because people will be able to tell when you’re wearing something confidently and that will radiate naturally. You shouldn’t let your outfit wear you.
SHOP THE EDIT
Discover the full Highsnobiety Loose Prep Guide in the Fall 2026 Issue.
