Mad Men Style Sweeps the Nation: Are you a Betty or a Joan? A Pete or a Don?

With the 4th season of AMC's hit TV show Mad Men airing soon, they're doing a recap of all of the previous episodes to catch people up.  It's one of those shows my husband and I were never interested in until everyone starting raving about it, then we never started because we were behind.  Even if the show turned out to be crap (which it isn't), I would have loved it anyway due to the set and costume designs.

Now I've officially jumped on the Mad Men bandwagon.  (1) In my house- mid century modern is the one design style my husband and I can agree upon- and (2) in my closet because my curves love 1940-1950's era styles.  And I know I'm not the only one....

Banana Republic is showing their love by releasing a limited edition Mad Men collection in time for the fall season.  August 11th at 6:00PM (in select stores) you can shop the collection and drink a free "Mad-tini".  Receive a gift with purchase if you use your Banana Republic card.

Guys, they didn't forget about you...  "Are you MAD enough?"


Want something a little more literal?  Check out this Etsy shop for curvaceous creations that look like they came straight out of the show.

Image(s) courtesy of Google search. Quote from Banana Republic marketing.

Spanx for Men: Yes or No?

My female clients know of my love/hate relationship with Spanx.  I don't always like having that extra layer (especially on hot summer days),  but I hate lumps and bumps more than a little extra sweating.  For many women like myself, shapewear is a necessary evil.  And now men can have the same experience [inset evil laugh here].  Introducing Spanx for men!

While I'm not sure anything other a diet or being stuffed into a sausage casing is going to make you look 10 pounds thinner, I do believe that shapewear can smooth out your lumps and bumps.  And this shouldn't be a luxury just for women (Lord knows the other options for guys aren't so great).  I know I couldn't wear half of my closet if I didn't wear Spanx.  So in the name of fashion, I am going to force my husband to test out these little beauties for you guys. 

Stay tuned for pics from my very unconvinced husband....

Image(s) courtesy of barenecessities.com

Somewhere Between Casual and Business (the top half)

The California laid back lifestyle has influenced the fashion of our day-to-day, unlike cities such as New York where you will never see flip flops and a sport coat paired together. Combine this attitude with the plethora of tech companies based in the Bay Area, and you are guaranteed to see these two looks exiting the CalTrain station: (a) For many men in Silicon Valley, business casual means a pair of khakis, short sleeved button down shirt and dress shoes, with their belts sporting the latest in cell phone technology. And (b) the translation of that into their weekend clothes means a logo t-shirt (usually showing their place of employment), baggy jeans, sport coat and dress shoes. Neither looks have any personality or style. This is not an insult towards men or their profession. It is merely an observation from a fashion point of view.

What is the underlying cause of this hodge-podge dressing? For many men, the hardest things to shop for are those looks that border the line of casual weekend and business attire. My experience is that many men are grateful not to have to wear a tie every day, if ever. But that doesn't mean you can't look sharp and well styled. The first thing to address-- what goes on top?

Endovanera
Thermal Front Shirt in White $165

This shirt is great because it is reminiscent of a tuxedo shirt, with the casual touch of a thermal knit inlay on the chest.

Shades of Greige

2-Pocket Long Sleeve Weekender Shirt in Navy Linen $79

The military styling of this button up, along with the great price, makes this a great buy.

Ted Baker

Ziggy Long Sleeve Half Button with Chest Pockets in Black $179

Not all sweaters have to look they they came of the set of "Leave it to Beaver." This is a great pull-over that can be worn over a nice shirt, and is a great alternative to a light jacket.

7 For All Mankind
Blazer in Black $294

By no means should my statement above make you think that sport coats are out of style. They are a staple to every man's wardrobe. It is a matter of the styling of the jacket, the fabric, and cut.

Theory

Steeler Luxe Shirt in Pomegranate $245

This shade of purple is going to be H-O-T for fall, and will be seen on shelves everywhere.

Pictures courtesy of Revolve Clothing. All Items shown above found on www.revolveclothing.com.