A method for preparing p-(2-hydroxyalkyloxy)styrene monomers and oligomers is described. The method comprises a base-catalyzed reaction of a styrene ester, a suitable alcohol and an alkylene oxide in a single vessel reaction. In this method, the reactive p-hydroxystyrene is generated in situ via the base-catalyzed transesterification reaction between the styrene ester and the alcohol in the presence of the base catalyst. The p-hydroxystyrene formed reacts with the alkylene oxide to form the p-(2-hydroxyalkyloxy)styrene monomer or oligomer.