Contemporary Goes Preppy: The Paris Fashion Week Presentations

Plaids, blazers and loafers were key pieces at A.P.C., Maje and Maison Kitsuné, which followed collegiate codes for a more tailored step up from streetwear.

PARIS — As designers explore a new elegance in ready-to-wear collections, contemporary brands evolved from streetwear, too, with a new emphasis on preppy and elevated essentials.

Collections on show were dressier and more tailored, with Maje and Maison Kitsuné calling on inspiration from British style, while A.P.C. and Claudie Pierlot looked to classic French codes with a twist. Longchamp’s riding roots offered up a crop of strong outerwear, again a focus of the season.

Collegiate codes were key, with lettermen’s jackets, tweed and plaid blazers but kept an edge of attitude — the popped collars on trenchcoats and plaid jackets at A.P.C. read just a little bit rebellious bourgeoise.