Imagine a style so iconic, it transcends generations and continents, yet remains fiercely debated in its authenticity. That’s the Ivy League look, and J. Press’s Spring 2026 collection boldly reimagines it for the modern era. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a style born in the ivy-covered halls of elite universities still feel fresh today? Or is it just a nostalgic echo of a bygone era?
The story begins in 1965 with Take Ivy, a groundbreaking photo book by four Japanese menswear enthusiasts. This visual ode to the eight Ivy League schools—known as much for their academic rigor as their preppy student style—became a cult classic. Among the brands that defined this look was J. Press, which opened its first store on Yale’s campus in 1902. It wasn’t just a store; it was a destination for young men seeking to embody the quintessential preppy aesthetic.
Fast forward to 2026, and J. Press president and creative director Jack Carlson is paying homage to Take Ivy with a collection that’s both a tribute and a reinvention. During the brand’s show at the New York Historical Society, each guest found a special edition of the book on their seat, complete with a new foreword by Carlson himself. “This show is a celebration of Take Ivy,” Carlson explained. “It’s not just a book; it’s a style bible that credits J. Press as a pioneer of the Ivy League look. And this is the part most people miss: J. Press isn’t just revisiting this style—it’s reclaiming its role as the last authentic steward of it.”
Carlson, the founder of Rowing Blazers who joined J. Press last year, is clear about the brand’s mission. Owned by Japan’s Onward Holdings since 1986, J. Press stands apart in an era where many brands dilute or parody the preppy style. “We’re doing it for real,” Carlson asserts. “No irony, no watering down—just the genuine article.”
So, how did Carlson modernize the Ivy League look? By co-opting and adapting its staples, of course. Think button-down Oxford shirts, madras pants, varsity jackets, and V-neck sweaters—all reimagined with a contemporary twist. The collection leans heavily into casualwear, with sweaters and jackets adorned with school patches and names. But it’s not all laid-back; there are dressier pieces too, like plaid blazers, double-breasted suits, and even updated tuxedos paired with Blackwatch pants or bold Princeton-inspired blazers. And yes, the obligatory repp tie makes an appearance, alongside bow ties for a touch of whimsy.
What’s most impressive is how Carlson strikes a balance between preserving J. Press’s heritage and making the style feel current. It’s a tightrope walk that few brands manage, but J. Press pulls it off with finesse. The Take Ivy team would undoubtedly approve—but what about you?
Here’s the controversial question: In an age of fast fashion and ever-shifting trends, does the Ivy League style still hold relevance? Or is it a relic of a more privileged past? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on whether this reimagined collection hits the mark or misses it entirely.
