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Prepositions before nouns

Using “style” with prepositions

“In style” is the standard expression for something fashionable. “Of style” is uncommon and usually belongs to larger noun phrases.

Quick answer

“In style” is the usual expression

Use “in style” to mean fashionable or stylish. “Of style” is not normally used alone after nouns or verbs, but it can appear in phrases such as “a matter of style” or “changes of style.”

Wide trousers are in style again.
The essay is elegant in style.
The painting shows a mixture of styles from different periods.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
in style

Saying something is fashionable

Use “in style” for current fashion or popularity.

Minimalist designs are in style this year.
2
in + style

Describing manner or artistic character

Use “in” before “style” to describe the way something is done.

The novel is written in a modern style.
3
of style

Using “style” inside a noun phrase

“Of style” appears in expressions where “style” is the object of “of,” not a fixed prepositional pattern.

The architect studied several periods of style in Europe.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
in style
That jacket is still in style.
fashionable or currently popular
in a modern style
The room was decorated in a modern style.
showing a particular design or manner
of style
The article discusses changes of style.
part of a larger noun phrase, not a fixed expression
out of style
Those shoes are out of style now.
no longer fashionable

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using “of style” instead of “in style”

Use “in style” to talk about fashion trends.

✕ These colours are of style. ✓ These colours are in style.

Omitting the article after “in”

When naming a specific type of style, use an article.

✕ The house was built in classic style. ✓ The house was built in a classic style.

Confusing “stylish” and “in style”

“Stylish” describes appearance; “in style” describes fashion status.

✓ The coat is stylish and still in style.

Using “of style” as a general adjective phrase

English does not normally use “of style” to mean fashionable.

✓ Her designs are fashionable.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. Vintage hats are back ___ style.
2. The apartment was designed ___ a minimalist style.
3. The book examines changes ___ style over time.

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Frequently asked questions

Does “in style” only refer to clothing?

No. It can describe furniture, design, music, writing, and other trends.

Is “of style” wrong?

Not always. It can appear in noun phrases such as “questions of style,” but it is not a common fixed expression.

Can I say “out of style”?

Yes. It means no longer fashionable or popular.

of, about, against, to or for racism? of, about, for, in or on friendship? of, about, for, on or to thing? of, about, for, to or with sex? of, about, on, to or for moon? "of access" or "with access"? "of accommodation" or "for accommodation"? "of accuracy" or "for accuracy"? "of action" or "in action"? "of actor", "with actor" or "by actor"? "of address" or "to address"? "of administration" or "in administration"?

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