Embracing Preppy Chic: My Journey as a Black Girl in London

Growing up as a Black girl in London, I always knew I had a distinct sense of style. Preppy fashion—polished blazers, pleated skirts, and timeless loafers—captivated me from an early age. But embracing this aesthetic came with its own set of challenges. In a world where being Black often comes with predefined stereotypes, my love for preppy fashion made me stand out in ways that weren’t always welcomed.

Embracing Preppy Chic Fashion: A Black Girl’s Journey to Authentic Style

The Struggle of Being Different

From childhood, I was made aware that there was only one "acceptable" way to be Black in my school and social circles. If I deviated from that, I was seen as an outsider. I remember admiring the elegance of classic fashion, but when I expressed those interests, I was met with side-eyes, ridicule, and even racial slurs. My friendships suffered because my love for a refined aesthetic didn’t fit the mold.At times those hurtful comments chipped away at my confidence, making me question whether I should conform just to belong.

Psalm 139:14 - "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

This verse reminded me that my uniqueness was intentional. God didn’t create me to fit into a mold set by others—He made me to stand out.

The Challenge of Expressing My Creativity

Beyond school, the pressure extended to my home life. My mother, like many, had expectations of how I should dress—expectations that didn’t align with my own vision. I longed for the freedom to express myself, but there was always an underlying pressure to conform to what was considered “appropriate” or “normal.”

Even when I was finally able to curate my wardrobe, there was still an uneasiness. When people think of preppy style, they rarely envision a Black woman. This lack of representation made me question whether I truly belonged in the aesthetic I admired. It felt odd to see that in the fashion world, preppy inspiration almost never included women who looked like me.

Galatians 1:10 - "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."

This verse became my affirmation—I didn’t need the world’s approval to embrace the style that made me feel most like myself.

Overcoming Fear & Reclaiming Confidence

Another difficult aspect of preppy fashion was how certain outfits attracted unwanted attention. Some styles are often infantilized, leading to the unsettling experience of drawing in men with questionable intentions. This made me hesitant to fully embrace my love for skirts, knee-high socks, and pastel shades.

But through my faith, I realized that fear shouldn’t dictate how I express myself. My creativity is a reflection of the Creator Himself. God designed the universe with endless beauty and detail—why shouldn’t I be free to reflect that in my style?

2 Timothy 1:7 - "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline."

This scripture helped me break free from fear. I wasn’t created to shrink myself for the comfort of others. I was meant to stand boldly in my identity and style.

Finding Strength in Faith & Individuality

Embracing preppy fashion as a Black woman isn’t always easy, but I have learned to take pride in what makes me different. God placed creativity within me, and no amount of backlash can take away what He has instilled. When I walk in my favorite loafers and style my outfits with intention, I remind myself that I am a reflection of divine artistry.

Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

If you’ve ever felt like an outsider because of your interests or style, know that you are not alone. You are wonderfully made, and your uniqueness is a gift—not a flaw. Walk boldly in the style that brings you joy, knowing that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.