As you're probably well aware, I'm always impressed to see new, more nuanced takes on preppiness. So I'm happy that this look seems to be gaining in popularity. Uptown/downtown, white/black, young/old...no matter the demographic, I've noticed guys taking elements that are so preppy they're almost kitsch and toning them down with simple, solid colors and clean, modern shapes. I believe there are two men to thank for this new take on the predictable, moth-bitten preppy cliches that have been around for far too long. First, is Michael Bastian, a fantastically talented menswear designer who has taken New England menswear classics and updated them with new colors and more stylish proportions. Second is Andre Benjamin, whose Benjamin Bixby line of men's clothes enthusiastically nods to the dandier side of country club sportswear and prep school uniforms. My only advice to offer when trying these looks is...if in doubt, less is more.

Wearing all white to accompany an iconic classic instantly refines and updates this guy's look. Madison Avenue, NYC 2008.

O.K., I admit this guy's cute face may make me biased towards his overall success; however, the simplicity and casual styling of his dapper clothes isn't making me turn away either. Spring Street, NYC 2008.

Right out of the Andre Benjamin school, or should I say academy? Spring Street, NYC 2008.

I like that everything this guy is wearing besides his bold striped tie is mellow and neutral, giving the tie a bigger impact. 5th Avenue, NYC 2008.