Style - Get the Look

Well, it's that time of summer again. Last night was the season 4 premiere of AMC's acclaimed drama Mad Men. Were you watching? While I'm not an avid fan of too many television dramas these days, Mad Men has always had a soft spot in my heart. From the story line and the sets to the characters and the costumes, Mad Men is one show that's got it all.

In case you've been living under a rock for the past three years, here's a little history: The show is set in 1960s New York City, and circles around the men and women of Madison Ave. (the pioneers of the advertising age). Who are they? Don Draper and his — estranged — wife Betty; Peggy Olsen; Pete Campbell; Roger Sterling Jr.; and Joan Harris. The show follows their lives closely, both in and out of the office, and at the end of season 3 we were left wondering what would become of Don and Betty's relationship and whether or not the new Sterling Cooper will survive.

Costume designer Janie Bryant, who does an outstanding and fabulous job designing the costumes and styling the characters of Mad Men, says that Betty's wardrobe for season 4 will still contain a classic element inspired largely in part by Jackie Onassis; Joan Harris's wardrobe will continue to be bred by said character's confidence; and Peggy Olsen's wardrobe will evolve throughout the season according to her accomplishments as a copywriter in Don's office.

The female characters of Mad Men are almost always immaculately groomed and perfectly posied in pieces like knee-length sheath dresses, pleated bow chiffon blouses, and figure-flattering pencil skirts. Feeling inspired? I've rounded up several sixites-inspired pieces with the same feel as your favourite Mad Men characters. Check them out below for details on how to emulate the characters of the AMC show!

1. Sleeveless gathered sheath dress: Classic chic at its best, this sleeveless Banana Republic sheath dress is designed with the feminine form in mind. Strategically-placed asymmetrical pleats and darts add some serious shape to an otherwise basic dress. The knee length is office-friendly and well-suited for several occasions. Composed of cool cotton and nylon, this is a dress you'll keep in your wardrobe for seasons to come. Look your business best and get it in grey. Sleeveless gathered sheath dress, $130, Banana Republic
2. Cotton cady Aveline dress: There's nothing that compares to a cotton dress, tailored to a tee. You'll have no trouble channeling the confidence of Joan Harris while wearing this number. The clean lines of this dress are complemented by a deep v-neck and back, flattering front pleats, and a cut-to-the-knee pencil skirt. The simple silhouette is machine washable and available in 10 colours. Cotton cady Aveline dress, $225, J.Crew
3. Silk taffeta Blakely dress: Like the characters on Mad Men show us, taffeta is one texture that can be worn both day and night. Seen here shaped into something sophisticated, I love how the ruffled collar and crossover bodice add depth to the dress. This dress is unfailingly feminine and completely chic. You'll have no trouble looking the part of a lady — think Betty Draper out running errands or rendezvous-ing with new husband Henry Francis. Silk taffeta Blakely dress, was $250 now select colours $179.99, J.Crew
4. Check out Net-A-Porter for some fabulous sixties-styled fashion inspiration. I'm loving how the stylists have combined new pieces with staple standards, and I'm sure you'll agree.