The Official Preppy Handbook

This book was a spot-on parody when it came out in 1980, but also a quite accurate and even useful "field guide" to the North American prepster. Almost 25 years later, it still holds up as humor, and also as a great guide to the prep look and lifestyle. And best of all, it may even be timely once again: An article in the New York Times a few days ago suggested that teen fashion trends are turning away from overexposure and punk and back toward plaid, chinos, polo shirts (with turned up collars, natch), even repp ties! Everything comes around a second time, so Lisa Birnbach call your office. It may be time for an updated edition for today's rising BMOCs. All I know is that my copy is well-thumbed from two-plus decades of hard work, and it's showing no signs of irrelevance yet!

Two years ago I found this book is a small shop in Morro Bay, I read it and loved it. This is a Bible for me and I now realize that all my life I have been a prep. I found another copy at the same store this year and gave it to my sister. The book is timeless and absolutely hilarious. I recommend it to anyone who wants a great laugh and also to those who want to live the "preppy" lifestyle. It is a wonderful book that makes a great gift. I am sad that it is out of print.

Cardigans carelessly draped over shoulders, Pappagalo, little children who wear no jewelry, not even watches, because "Nanny knows what time it is." A wonderful tribute to the days when Abercrombie & Fitch was not the classless chainstore it is today. The clothing section alone is a primer in timeless quality. And it's always fun to practice Locust Valley lockjaw with friends.

Mummy, Daddy, Trip and Buffy eat your hearts out! This is the funniest book I've ever read, and I have to admit I've gleaned more than a couple of fashion hints from its sacred pages. While it is primarily a tongue-in-cheek spoof on old-line preppies, it is also a definitive, flawless, and well-written authority on The Tradition. Owning the out-of-print book is a coveted honor. And know to refer to it by its abbrevaition: The OPH. Find it in paperback, discuss it only with your preppiest friends, and tuck it away in a descreet bedroom drawer. And it is important to keep the rare item safe for passing it on to the future generations, as preppy style never ages.