15 Preppy Drawing Ideas to Elevate Your Artistic Style

by

Are you ready to bring some classic, chic vibes to your art? Preppy style is all about clean lines, bright colors, and timeless elegance. Imagine drawing the sorts of things you’d find in a well-put-together wardrobe, a coastal home, or a breezy afternoon at the yacht club. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, these preppy drawing ideas are perfect to spark your creativity. So, grab your drawing supplies, and let’s dive into these fun ideas!

Fast-Track Your Drawing Ability!

A pencil drawing course that specializes in taking beginners and teaching them how to draw in a realistic style. The course itself is online video, so you can access it from anywhere in the world...


1. Bow Tie

A bow tie is an iconic piece of preppy style that symbolizes sophistication and fun. It’s a simple yet classy addition that suits anyone learning to draw preppy fashion accessories.

Description: A simple bow with a knot at the center and two loops extending outward, featuring stripes or polka dots for extra flair.

How to Draw a Bow Tie:

  1. Draw a small circle for the center knot.
  2. Sketch two loops extending from each side of the circle.
  3. Draw triangular ends extending from the loops.
  4. Add patterns like stripes or polka dots to bring out the preppy style.

2. Anchor Symbol

Anchors are a staple of preppy, nautical aesthetics and bring that coastal touch to your art.

Description: A strong, simple anchor with a rope wrapped around it is great for adding a nautical twist.

How to Draw an Anchor:

  1. Draw a straight vertical line as the center.
  2. Add a semicircle at the bottom to form the anchor’s base.
  3. Draw two flukes at each end of the semicircle.
  4. Wrap a rope around the anchor for added detail.

3. Plaid Pattern

Plaid screams preppy style. Drawing a plaid pattern can also help with practicing lines and spacing.

Description: Intersecting horizontal and vertical lines with varied thickness to create a classic tartan plaid.

How to Draw a Plaid Pattern:

  1. Draw evenly spaced vertical lines.
  2. Add evenly spaced horizontal lines.
  3. Vary the line thickness to give it a plaid look.
  4. Use different colors for more visual interest.

4. Lighthouse

A lighthouse represents the coastal, maritime preppy vibe and is perfect for beach lovers.

Description: A tall tower with a light at the top, usually striped in red and white to give it that classic nautical charm.

How to Draw a Lighthouse:

  1. Draw a tall, tapering cylinder for the lighthouse body.
  2. Add horizontal stripes.
  3. Draw a small dome with a light on top.
  4. Add details like a door and rocks at the base.

5. Sailboat

Nothing says preppy more than a sailboat gently gliding across the sea.

Description: A simple sailboat with a triangular sail and wavy ocean lines underneath.

How to Draw a Sailboat:

  1. Draw a curved line for the boat’s base.
  2. Sketch a tall mast in the center.
  3. Draw a large triangular sail extending from the mast.
  4. Add gentle waves beneath the boat.

6. Polo Shirt

A classic polo shirt is a preppy must-have and a great way to practice drawing clothing.

Description: A short-sleeved shirt with a collar, typically featuring a small emblem.

How to Draw a Polo Shirt:

  1. Sketch the outline of a basic T-shirt.
  2. Add a collar at the neckline.
  3. Draw a few buttons below the collar.
  4. Add a small logo or emblem on the chest.

7. Pearls

Pearl necklaces are timeless and add a touch of elegance.

Description: A simple string of pearls, perfect for practicing repetitive shapes and shading.

How to Draw a Pearl Necklace:

  1. Draw a curved line to act as the necklace string.
  2. Draw small, evenly spaced circles along the curve.
  3. Add shading to each pearl to make them look round.

8. Ivy Wreath

Ivy wreaths evoke an academic and natural vibe, perfect for preppy-themed decor.

Description: A circular wreath of ivy leaves, great for practicing organic shapes.

How to Draw an Ivy Wreath:

  1. Draw a light circle as the wreath base.
  2. Sketch small clusters of leaves all along the circle.
  3. Add details to the leaves, like veins, for a natural look.

9. Top-Siders (Boat Shoes)

Boat shoes are essential to preppy fashion, with their distinctive look and laces.

Description: A pair of loafers with visible stitching and a lace running along the sides.

How to Draw Boat Shoes:

  1. Draw the basic outline of the shoe.
  2. Add stitching lines around the top.
  3. Draw the lace going around the shoe and tied at the front.

10. Preppy Monogram

Monograms are often used in preppy designs to personalize items in an elegant way.

Description: Two or three initials intertwined with decorative flourishes.

How to Draw a Monogram:

  1. Pick two or three letters.
  2. Sketch them in a flowing, cursive style.
  3. Add decorative flourishes around the letters for extra flair.

11. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are often seen as the quintessential preppy pet.

Description: A friendly, fluffy dog with a kind face, perfect for practicing drawing animals.

How to Draw a Golden Retriever:

  1. Sketch the basic shapes for the head and body.
  2. Draw floppy ears and a happy expression.
  3. Add details to the fur for a fluffy look.

12. Tennis Racquet

Tennis is a sport often associated with preppy culture, and a racquet is a fun prop to draw.

Description: A simple racquet with a crisscross pattern of strings.

How to Draw a Tennis Racquet:

  1. Draw an oval for the racquet’s head.
  2. Add a long handle extending from the oval.
  3. Draw the crisscross strings inside the oval.
  4. Add details like grip tape on the handle.

13. Gingham Bow

A gingham bow is both classic and cheerful, perfect for preppy styling.

Description: A bow with a crisscross pattern that adds a playful element.

How to Draw a Gingham Bow:

  1. Draw the basic bow shape.
  2. Add evenly spaced horizontal and vertical lines.
  3. Color alternating squares to create the gingham look.

14. Rowing Oars

Rowing is another activity that embodies preppy culture, and oars make for a simple, elegant drawing.

Description: A pair of crossed rowing oars with handles, often featuring stripes.

How to Draw Rowing Oars:

  1. Draw two long, parallel lines for each oar.
  2. Add a flat blade at the end of each oar.
  3. Cross the oars over one another.
  4. Add stripes or simple patterns to decorate.

15. Striped Beach Umbrella

A striped beach umbrella brings the classic preppy beach vibe to your drawing.

Description: A large umbrella with alternating colored stripes, ideal for adding some seaside charm.

How to Draw a Striped Beach Umbrella:

  1. Draw a semi-circle for the top of the umbrella.
  2. Divide it into sections like slices of a pie.
  3. Alternate between different colors for each stripe.
  4. Draw a pole extending from the center downwards.

These preppy drawing ideas are not only a great way to practice your drawing skills but also let you explore a classy and timeless style. Whether you’re sketching fashion accessories, seaside symbols, or beloved pets, each of these projects will add a fresh, polished touch to your sketchbook. So pick your favorite, and start drawing today! Which one are you excited to try first?