Mad Men, the AMC television series about a New York ad agency in the 60s, has slowly but surely amassed a cult following; the show (along with Damages) is the first basic cable series to be nominated for an Emmy! Much of its popularity however rests in its retro styling, best demonstrated by its fabulous leading ladies. Betty, Joan, and Peggy exhibit different types of dressing from the era, from housewife to sex kitten, and we can't help but love them all. We've amassed wonderful dresses, skirts, blouses, and accessories to let you tap into Mad Men's sartorial delights.
Betty has the style of a classic, Grace Kelly-esque housewife, decked out in pearls and cardigans. She nearly always dons dresses that feature a fitted top and full skirt, and to emulate the style, dresses by Isaac Mizrahi for Target will become your new best friend. This Bordered Eyelet Dress ($34.99, Target) is strikingly similar to the dress pictured on the right, down to the button-bodice and collar. The same goes for the jaunty, daytime Awning Stripe Dress ($39.99, Target). If you're not a fan of the collared neck or striped pattern, try the High and Wide Dress ($39.99, Target), which lies quite nicely across the stomach and chest. Betty always has a sweet cardigan at hand to toss over her shoulders, and we suggest a style that comes to the hip (no boyfriend or cropped cardigans here). Aim for a luxurious look, either with a quality fabrication, like cashmere, or decadent embroidery. This Short Sleeve Beaded Crewneck Cardigan ($39.99, Ann Taylor Loft) has just a bit of sparkle on the jewel neckline, while the Fine Gauge Cotton Stretch Embroidered Cardigan Sweater ($69.50, Lands' End) features a floral motif. For the more formal look, try going for a fuller skirt and richer fabric. Both the Taffeta Couture Dress and Trapunto Dress ($49.99 each, Target) resemble Betty's voluminous gown from the top picture. They also feature a tonal, skinny belt at the natural waist, which is a 50's-style trademark that Betty has adopted. Finish any ensemble with pearl studs or button earrings -- like these Bing Bang Large Faceted Button Earrings ($29.70, Shopbop.com), Faux Pearl Earrings ($9, JCPenney), or Subversive for Target Blue Bird and Green Bee Button Earrings ($7.49, Target) -- and pumps.
Joan is undeniably sexy, with her fiery red hair and curvaceous figure. Her style is all about emphasizing these attributes, rather than taming them. As a result, she's always voluptuous in form-fitting styles. Be sure to get a dress that shows off your decolletage and shoulders with a scoop neck or wide, deep V. The dress should also follow the shape of your body by tapering below the hips. This Tahari by ASL Short-Sleeve Button-Detail Dress ($128, Macy's) hits all of those marks, making for a work-appropriate dress that exudes femininity. You could also try knit dresses that naturally hug your curves, like this Jones New York Sleeveless Belted Cowl-Neck Sheath Dress ($149, Macy's) or Rib Knit Cap Sleeve Dress ($15.80, Forever 21). When Joan wears separates, you better believe they maintain the same hourglass shape. Go for a pencil skirt in a rich fabric, such as tweed or plaid, and a wrap top. Both the Knee-Length Pencil Skirt ($39, Newport News) and 3/4 Sleeve Wrap Cardigan ($98, Banana Republic) will do nicely. Add a bit of glamour to whichever garment you choose with this Pearl Flower Pin ($24.50, Goldyn) and some voluminous hair, teased with some Bumble & Bumble Spray de Mode ($15-$25, ABeautifulLife.com). And though it certainly doesn't compare to the chartreuse silk gown that she wears above, we think Joan would approve of the voluptuousness of this Jones New York Stretch Satin Sleeveless V-Neck Dress ($67.50, Macy's).
Peggy is more reserved and innocent in her style. Her character attempts to infiltrate the boys club that is the advertising agency, so modesty might as well be her middle name, style-wise. Still, her sock-hop vibe -- which is perfectly represented by the scarves she ties around her neck and ponytail -- is definitely worth tapping into.
The fastidiously buttoned neck and peter pan collar of this Isaac Mizrahi for Target Pleated Shirtwaist Dress ($44.99, Target) is perfectly Peggy, while this Plaid Shirt Dress ($24.80, Forever 21) hints at her turn toward sexier apparel. The gingham of course keeps her rooted in her endearingly nerdy ways. We almost wonder if Generra was consciously channeling Peggy with its Tie Neck Cardigan (pictured left; $196, Goldyn). The similarities are striking! If you can't swing that price tag however, try this simple, cotton Neck Tie Shirt ($19.99, The Gap). Finally, we love her angelic, yet sexy, take on evening wear in the top picture. The teal and green floral pattern is mimicked in both the Bleeker Sheath Dress ($168, Anthropologie) and Watercolor Floral Madison Dress ($178, J.Crew).
So if you're smitten with the retro-chic women’s fashions seen on Mad Men like we are, be sure to give our guide a whirl.
-- Lindsay Sakraida