Don Draper, the enigmatic lead character of “Mad Men”, has become a cultural icon known for his sharp wit, irresistible charm, and—most notably—his impeccable sense of style. As the creative director of an advertising agency in 1960s New York, Draper’s look is a masterclass in refined elegance, offering timeless lessons in dressing for both power and sophistication. His style is one that still resonates today, representing the epitome of classic masculinity and effortless refinement. If you want to channel Draper’s look and bring a bit of that suave, mid-century modern sophistication into your wardrobe, here’s how to dress like Don Draper.
Tailored Suits
At the heart of Don Draper’s wardrobe lies the perfectly tailored suit. Draper’s suits are a hallmark of 1960s menswear, characterized by their structured silhouettes, slim cuts, and precise tailoring. These suits were often made from wool and featured clean lines, adding a layer of formality and sharpness to Draper’s overall look.
To channel Draper’s iconic style, aim for suits that fit like a glove—nothing too tight but also not too loose. A well-fitted suit should hug the shoulders comfortably, taper at the waist, and feature a narrow pant leg. In terms of color, Draper often wore shades of gray, navy, and charcoal—colors that are versatile and timeless. His suits were always paired with a crisp white shirt and a sleek tie, offering a look that exuded both power and professionalism.
For a modern take, consider a two-piece suit with a slim cut and shorter, slightly higher rise pants. Opt for quality fabrics like wool or cashmere, which give the suit structure without being too heavy.
White Dress Shirts
One of the key elements of Draper’s style is his commitment to simplicity and crispness. His shirts, typically in shades of white, light blue, or pale pink, were always impeccably pressed. These shirts had a timeless quality, featuring a simple point collar and a slim fit that tapered towards the waist, never overpowering his suit.
To replicate this look, choose shirts with high-quality cotton that hold their shape. Stick to solid, classic colors for a more versatile wardrobe, but don’t shy away from subtle patterns like thin stripes or checks for variety. It’s also important to pay attention to details like the collar—point collars and semi-spread collars are great options to complement your suit. Avoid overly trendy shirt styles or anything too casual; Draper’s look is all about timeless, polished pieces.
Classic Silk Ties and Pocket Squares
Draper’s ties are often bold, yet understated—never too flashy, but always with enough character to make a statement. The tie is an essential part of his look, usually a simple silk tie in solid colors, thin stripes, or understated geometric patterns. Draper frequently favored colors like deep burgundy, forest green, and navy.
To replicate his style, look for ties that are neither too wide nor too skinny. A tie width of around 2.5 to 3 inches is ideal. Stick to classic patterns such as polka dots, stripes, and simple geometric designs. The key to Draper’s tie game is balance—his ties never steal the spotlight from his suit but rather complement the overall polished aesthetic.
Another critical accessory to Draper’s look is the pocket square. He often wore a white linen pocket square, neatly folded and tucked into his breast pocket. This accessory added a touch of refinement to his suits without drawing attention away from the overall look.
For a modern take, stick to simple white pocket squares for versatility, or opt for subtle patterns that complement your tie. The fold should be clean and sharp—Draper’s approach was always understated and elegant, never over-the-top.
Leather Oxfords or Brogues
Don Draper’s shoes are a testament to his attention to detail. Whether he’s in a boardroom or walking the streets of Manhattan, his shoes are always made of polished leather, often in shades of brown or black. He frequently wears Oxfords, which are the epitome of formal style, perfect for completing his well-tailored suits.
For a modern take, invest in a pair of quality leather Oxfords or brogues that can be worn with both suits and casual attire. Black leather is an ideal choice for formal events, while brown or oxblood can add some depth and versatility to your wardrobe. Pay attention to the polish—Draper’s shoes were always immaculately shined, reflecting his overall commitment to grooming and presentation.
Wool Overcoats
The outerwear Draper wears often reflects the era’s high standards for fashion. His most iconic outerwear piece is the long wool overcoat—perfect for the crisp winters of New York. Draper’s overcoat is typically in a neutral tone, like camel or gray, and features a clean, streamlined silhouette that drapes beautifully over his suits.
For a modern take on this look, choose a classic wool overcoat in a neutral color that will work with a variety of outfits. Keep the fit slim and tailored, and ensure the coat falls just above the knee for a sophisticated, yet functional look. The overcoat should be an extension of your suit and enhance your overall silhouette, not distract from it.
Polished Wristwatch
Draper’s accessories are subtle but always sophisticated. A classic wristwatch is one of the key pieces in his accessory repertoire, often a vintage Rolex, which adds a touch of refinement without drawing too much attention. The watch is simple, elegant, and masculine, reflecting Draper’s minimalist approach to accessorizing.
For a modern version of Draper’s watch, choose a leather-strapped or metal-band watch with a simple, clean face. Opt for brands with classic appeal, like Omega or Tag Heuer, to replicate the sleek, refined look.
Trendy Sunglasses
Don Draper’s sunglasses are just as iconic as his suits, often seen when he’s out in the city or driving around Manhattan. Draper’s choice of eyewear—large, classic, and bold—adds a layer of mystery to his persona. He often wore sunglasses with oversized, rectangular frames, a nod to the mid-century modern style that defined the era.
To capture Draper’s style, opt for large, classic sunglasses with a refined, vintage look. Look for frames in bold black or tortoiseshell, which give off a strong, authoritative vibe. The key is to select sunglasses that are sleek, minimal, and refined—not too trendy or flashy.
Sunglasses are the perfect finishing touch for a sharp, polished look, allowing you to add a touch of cool while maintaining that air of mystery that Draper effortlessly embodied.
The post How to Dress Like Don Draper: Mastering the Iconic Mad Men Style appeared first on The Fashiongton Post.