9 Ways To Rethink Preppy — From Shorts Suits To Pencil Skirts

UPDATE: Waterfront happy hours and picnics in the park make us want to channel our inner prepster — but that doesn't mean personal style has to suffer. Here's how to do preppy, your way! This story was originally published on April 1, 2013.

Preppy style is a sartorial hallmark of Washington, where it's no big shock to see Lilly Pulitzer and Lanvin occupying the same sidewalk. And while "preppy" usually denotes a look that's a tad too traditional for some, we've set out to prove that clean and classic doesn't always have to mean bland and boring. Ahead you'll find nine oh-so-easy tricks for revamping old-school staples — from oxford shirts to pleated skirts — and making them feel 100% 2013.