17 Brands Like Kule for Preppy & Playful Fashion

Explore brands like Kule for preppy, playful fashion with timeless stripes and vibrant colors. Discover new wardrobe favorites full of personality today.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

If you love the cheerful, preppy-with-a-twist style of Kule, you already know the power of a perfect stripe and a pop of color. The brand has mastered the art of playful sophistication, creating pieces that are both timeless and full of personality.

For those looking to expand their closet with similarly vibrant and polished essentials, we’ve found 17 other brands that capture that same fun, preppy energy. From classic American sportswear to Parisian chic, here are the best brands to check out next.

1. J.Crew

J.Crew is a cornerstone of classic American prep, offering polished wardrobe staples like blazers, colorful sweaters, and perfectly-cut button-downs. It’s a go-to for those who love Kule’s cheerful aesthetic but want to build out their collection of versatile, timeless basics. J.Crew masters the art of infusing playful prints and bright hues into everyday-wearable pieces.

Compared to Kule, J.Crew offers a broader range of wardrobe essentials, often at a slightly more accessible price point. While Kule's vibe is a bit more punchy and bold, J.Crew provides the classic, preppy foundation that pairs perfectly with more statement-making items. Think of it as Kule’s slightly more traditional, equally stylish cousin.

Shop now at jcrew.com

2. Ralph Lauren

When you think of preppy sophistication, Ralph Lauren is probably the first name that comes to mind. This iconic brand offers timeless pieces, from signature polo shirts to tailored dresses, all crafted from high-quality fabrics. It captures that luxe preppy vibe, often adding a playful twist through its seasonal collections, making it a perfect match for a polished wardrobe.

While Ralph Lauren is definitely a step up in price, its pieces are heritage-quality investments that never go out of style. It shares Kule's dedication to polished silhouettes and fun patterns but delivers them with a more elevated, aspirational feel. If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your preppy collection, this is the place to start.

Shop now at ralphlauren.com

3. Sandro

For a dose of Parisian chic with a playful edge, look no further than Sandro. The brand is known for its contemporary, fashion-forward designs that feature structured silhouettes, vibrant colors, and bold prints. If you love Kule's energetic aesthetic but want something with a bit more of a European, city-ready flair, Sandro is your brand.

Sandro’s pieces, like lively dresses and patterned tops, often feel a bit more modern and sleek compared to Kule’s classic all-American vibe. It’s the perfect alternative when you’re looking for playful preppy style with a distinctively cool, fashionista twist.

Shop now at sandro-paris.com

4. Lilly Pulitzer

Lilly Pulitzer is the undisputed queen of bright, happy, resort-ready fashion. Known for its whimsical, hand-painted prints and sun-drenched color palettes, this brand epitomizes a playful, preppy style with a tropical twist. If Kule’s vibrant energy is what draws you in, Lilly Pulitzer’s unapologetically cheerful shift dresses and patterned tops will feel right at home in your closet.

The price point is similar to Kule’s, but the primary focus is on bold, botanical prints that instantly evoke a vacation mindset. Where Kule is more city-preppy, Lilly is pure sunshine and beach club vibes. It's the perfect brand for when you want to turn the playfulness up to the maximum level.

Shop now at lillypulitzer.com

5. GANT

GANT delivers classic American sportswear that effortlessly blends preppy elegance with modern sensibilities. The brand offers high-quality polos, relaxed button-downs, and crisp chinos, often in cheerful colors and sporty stripes. GANT is perfect for those who want a laid-back, polished look without sacrificing comfort or playful energy.

In comparison to Kule, GANT’s style feels a bit more traditional and relaxed, leaning heavily into timeless casual staples. It shares that same love for colorful, preppy details but applies them to an everyday wardrobe you can truly live in.

Shop now at gant.com

6. Kate Spade

Kate Spade is all about adding a joyful, feminine sparkle to your wardrobe. Known for its bright hues, quirky prints, and sophisticated silhouettes, the brand offers everything from colorful dresses to iconic handbags and whimsical accessories. It aligns perfectly with Kule’s mission to make fashion fun, playful, and expressive.

With a similar price point, Kate Spade excels at creating signature playful patterns and must-have accessories that add a pop of personality to any look. It shares Kule’s happy-preppy approach but dials up the modern femininity and whimsy.

Shop now at katespade.com

7. Madewell

If your version of preppy is more relaxed and girl-next-door, Madewell is for you. This brand is a favorite for high-quality denim, perfectly soft striped tees, colorful knits, and casual dresses that feel effortlessly cool. It’s for those who love Kule’s playful spirit but prefer a more laid-back, understated approach to daily style.

Madewell’s aesthetic is built around versatile, comfortable staples that have a modern, youthful edge. It's less about bold statements and more about creating an easygoing, everyday-chic wardrobe with subtle pops of color and pattern.

Shop now at madewell.com

8. Tory Burch

Tory Burch is known for its unique blend of preppy, bohemian, and modern design, creating a signature aesthetic that feels both polished and worldly. With vibrant prints, elegant logo-adorned accessories, and chic dresses, the brand offers a sophisticated take on playful style that fans of Kule will appreciate.

Leaning towards the luxury side, Tory Burch’s pieces are distinct and instantly recognizable. The brand’s mix of classic preppy elements with bohemian influences offers an elevated and unique alternative for those looking to invest in standout, playful pieces.

Shop now at toryburch.com

9. Sperry

Famous for perfecting the boat shoe, Sperry is the go-to for casual, sporty styles with a timeless preppy twist. While primarily a footwear and accessories brand, its unmistakable nautical vibe is the perfect finishing touch for a classic Kule-inspired outfit. Sperry embodies a playful, coastal spirit that’s all about effortless weekend style.

While Kule focuses on clothing, Sperry provides the ideal foundation for that cheerful, preppy look. Their pieces complete a fun, nautical look with an active, youthful sensibility.

Shop now at sperry.com

10. Vineyard Vines

Vineyard Vines is practically synonymous with laid-back preppy style. The brand's signature smiling whale logo, bright colors, and relaxed silhouettes define a fun, easygoing vibe perfect for beach trips and weekend hangouts. From graphic tees to casual dresses and classic shep shirts, their clothes radiate happy energy.

Like Kule, Vineyard Vines uses a lot of bright, cheerful colors and playful prints. However, its overall look is much more casual and has a stronger nautical and outdoor influence, making it ideal for those who live the "every day should feel this good" motto.

Shop now at vineyardvines.com

11. Polène

For those who express their playful style through accessories, Polène offers beautifully crafted leather bags with a modern, minimalist-preppy feel. While their bags are clean and structured, the sophisticated designs and occasional pops of color add a refined yet bold touch to any outfit.

Instead of competing with Kule's clothing, Polène offers the perfect accessories to complement its aesthetic. Think of a classic Polène bag as the perfect sophisticated counterpoint to one of Kule's vibrant striped sweaters - a true match made in style heaven.

Shop now at polene-paris.com

12. Ted Baker

Ted Baker puts a quintessentially British and quirky twist on preppy fashion. The brand is known for its vibrant prints, unexpected design details, and colorful dresses and shirts. If you enjoy Kule's playfulness but want something with a bit more whimsy and distinctive patterns, Ted Baker is a fantastic choice.

With a similar price point, Ted Baker stands out for its bold, often floral-inspired prints and meticulous attention to detail. It’s the brand for the person who loves dressing up and isn’t afraid to let their personality shine through their clothes.

Shop now at tedbaker.com

13. Brooks Brothers

As one of America's original preppy outfitters, Brooks Brothers offers timeless sophistication. While the brand is known for its classic tailoring and traditional pieces like Oxford shirts and blazers, its seasonal collections often incorporate playful stripes and bright hues reminiscent of Kule’s fun aesthetic.

Brooks Brothers is undeniably more traditional and refined than Kule, but it shares that same dedication to quality craftsmanship and core preppy values. It's the perfect place to find high-quality, heritage staples that anchor a playful wardrobe.

Shop now at brooksbrothers.com

14. Club Monaco

Club Monaco offers a chic, modern interpretation of preppy style. Its aesthetic is more minimalist and refined, focusing on smart silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and a sophisticated color palette. However, the brand isn't afraid to inject fun through colorful blouses, relaxed statement trousers, and stylish accessories.

If you prefer a more understated and sleek version of Kule’s playful vibe, Club Monaco hits the mark. It provides polished, versatile pieces that feel both fun and elevated, easily transitioning from the office to the weekend.

Shop now at clubmonaco.com

15. Sea New York

Sea New York offers a romantic, bohemian take on preppy fashion. Known for its gorgeous prints, intricate details like quilting and lace, and vintage-inspired silhouettes, this brand is for someone who wants their playful pieces to have an artistic, whimsical feel. Think prairie dresses meet preppy brunch.

While definitely more bohemian than Kule, Sea's love for vibrant, unique patterns and flowy silhouettes makes it a compelling alternative. It’s perfect for the shopper who wants preppy charm with a decidedly creative and free-spirited twist.

Shop now at seanewyork.com

16. A.P.C.

A.P.C. (Atelier de Production et de Creation) is the master of minimalist French style. The brand offers understated, preppy staples with a focus on clean lines, impeccable tailoring, and high-quality fabrics. While less overtly playful than Kule, its pieces create a timeless, effortless canvas that channels a subtle, chic form of fun.

Compared to Kule’s bold colors, A.P.C. is much more pared-down. However, it shares a philosophy of creating quality, timeless pieces. It’s the perfect brand for building a chic, minimalist wardrobe rooted in preppy essentials.

Shop now at apc-us.com

17. Milly

Milly delivers a dose of high-fashion energy with a playful, preppy heart. The brand is known for its bold colors, vibrant patterns, and contemporary silhouettes that are designed to make a statement. You’ll find colorful dresses, statement tops, and chic accessories perfect for everything from a fun dinner out to a stylish event.

Milly’s designs share Kule’s joyful spirit but lean more toward modern, runway-inspired trends. If you're looking for preppy pieces with an unapologetically bold, feminine, and fashion-forward edge, Milly is your new obsession.

Shop now at milly.com

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