J. Press Spring 2026: A Fresh Take on Ivy League Style
The iconic book 'Take Ivy' from 1965, a Japanese menswear enthusiast's masterpiece, immortalized the eight U.S. universities known as the Ivy League, renowned for their ivy-covered walls and the students who defined preppy style. One of the pioneers of 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 their perfect wardrobe.
J. Press President and Creative Director Jack Carlson, a former founder of Rowing Blazers, drew inspiration from 'Take Ivy' for his spring collection. Carlson penned a new foreword for a special J. Press edition of the book, distributed to guests at the company's New York Historical Society show. He emphasized the book's status as a style bible for the Ivy League look, highlighting J. Press's significant role in its creation.
Carlson, a true steward of this style, ensures J. Press remains authentic and unironically embodies the Ivy League aesthetic. His collection features a range of Ivy League staples, including button-down oxford shirts, madras pants and shorts, varsity jackets, T-shirts with vertical stripes, and V-neck sweaters. The collection strikes a balance between casual and dressy, showcasing sweaters and jackets adorned with patches and school names, as well as more formal pieces like plaid blazers, double-breasted suits, repp ties, and updated tuxedos paired with blackwatch pants or Princeton-inspired blazers with bow ties.
By staying true to the core of J. Press and Ivy style while incorporating modern elements, Carlson's collection pays homage to the past while looking forward. The 'Take Ivy' team would undoubtedly be impressed, as Carlson successfully captures the essence of both eras.
