J. Press Fall 2026: A Fresh Take on Ivy League Style
The story of J. Press and the Ivy League style is a fascinating journey through time. It all began in 1965 with the publication of 'Take Ivy' in Japan, a book that captured the essence of eight U.S. universities, known for their ivy-covered walls and the students who defined preppy fashion. One of the key players in this preppy movement was J. Press, which opened its doors on the Yale campus in 1902, becoming the go-to destination for young men seeking the perfect wardrobe.
Fast forward to the present, and J. Press president and creative director Jack Carlson has drawn inspiration from 'Take Ivy' for his fall collection. Carlson penned a new foreword for a special J. Press edition of the book, which was distributed to guests at the company's show at the New York Historical Society. He emphasized the book's influence, stating, 'This show is a tribute to 'Take Ivy,' a style bible for the Ivy League look, and J. Press is a central figure in its creation.'
Carlson, who founded Rowing Blazers and joined J. Press last year, believes the company is the true guardian of this style. He asserts, 'J. Press is the last brand standing that embodies the essence of Ivy League style authentically, without irony or dilution.'
For the fall collection, Carlson reimagined Ivy League staples, including button-down oxford shirts, madras pants and shorts, varsity jackets, vertical-striped T-shirts, and V-neck sweaters. The collection predominantly features casual wear, such as sweaters adorned with patches and school names, but it also includes dressier elements like plaid blazers, double-breasted suits, repp ties, and updated tuxedos paired with blackwatch pants or Princeton-inspired blazers worn with bow ties.
Carlson's collection successfully blends J. Press' heritage with modern aesthetics, paying homage to the Ivy League style while making it relevant today. The 'Take Ivy' team would undoubtedly be impressed with this fresh take on classic Ivy League fashion.
