If watching AMC’s Mad Men fills you with a little bit of fashion envy, then you’ll be happy to know there are some easy ways to get the styles of the 1960s for yourself.
Bright colours and patterns
The ’60s were all about colour and pattern — and that comes across beautifully on Mad Men. A dress such as this tight-waisted, long-sleeved one from H&M is both sexy and sophisticated (hm.com, $40). You may also want to consider a more mature look along the lines of this floral dress from Sears (sears.ca, $40). Or if you’re sporting a black, grey or beige dress, don’t be afraid to dress it up with some brightly coloured tights or knee-high socks. That’s what the ladies of the ’60s would do!
Retro boots
1960s boots add the perfect vintage twist to any modern outfit. Plus, because the boots worn back then had very reasonable heels, you’ll be quite comfortable maintaining your look all day long. These knee-high leather boots from Nine West will complement a cute short skirt and tights or your favourite pair of skinny jeans (ninewest.ca, $270). Or for a more dressed-up look, check out these sleek heeled boots from ALDO (aldoshoes.com, $110).
Crochet everything
Crochet clothing walks the perfect line between sexy and sophisticated. And in the ’60s, this elegant and playful technique was used for shirts, dresses, bathing suits, headbands, purses and more. Check out this Victoria’s Secret dress, for example (victoriassecret.com, $80). It’s sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.
Collars and poofy skirts
When Mad Men first premiered, many women were caught up in the ladylike quality of Betty Draper’s dresses. Whether at home with the kids or on Don’s arm at yet another work function, she always looks superb. To pick out a truly vintage dress you will love, check out what’s being sold on Etsy. Wouldn’t you feel like you were Betty herself if you sported this black and white day dress or this slightly more dressy green pleated look?
Miniskirts
In the later part of the 1960s, miniskirts and minidresses were everywhere. This is particularly noticeable in the later seasons of Mad Men, with characters such as Megan Draper attending auditions and work events in cute little numbers. Get the look for yourself with this pleated pocket skirt from Forever 21 (forever21.com, 24). Or for a more daring look, check out their retro flower sequined skirt (forever21.com, $30).
Flatter your waist
Many of women’s modern styles pull the focus to the hips or chest. Although these styles work for some women, the fact is, for many of us, the narrowest and most attractive part of the body is the waist. And the ladies of the ’60s used that to their advantage. Do the same by sporting waist-cinching numbers such as this belted sheath dress from Zara (zara.com, 80). Or for a fun and playful look, check out this flared lace dress from H&M (hm.com, $50).
Complete the look
And of course, if you really want to put together a 1960s look, you can’t forget to work in makeup and hairstyles from the period. In terms of makeup, think full, bright red lips. And for your eyes, rely on a liquid liner and extend it farther than the actual edge of your lid to create a cat eye look. Throw on pearls or small, jewelled earrings for a finishing touch, and enjoy strutting around in your Mad Men look!
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