Dress Like a Draper for (Almost!) 1960s Prices

Mad Men is back with a third season of deception, adultery, cynicism, humor and fabulous fashion. The 1960s styles seen on the popular AMC drama have influenced designers, tastemakers and the frugal fashionable alike with Don and Betty fast becoming fashion icons.

Dying to dress like a Draper? Here's how to look drop-dead Draper for less.

Many upscale retailers and designers have been emulating that 1960s look, but many price tags require the kind of salary that comes with a corner office at Sterling Cooper. Wanna steal that look for a fraction of the cost? Start by paying a visit to your local vintage store. Find out when they put out their new hauls each week, because 1960s styles are sure to go fast.

This Chicago Tribune article gives a great breakdown of the classic Mad Men style. Scour eBay and other online vintage outlets to get the most authentic looks. Failing that, several less expensive retailers like Banana Republic and Mod Cloth have throwback looks this season. To save you time you could spend coming up with ad campaigns or shooting pigeons, here are some thrifty finds:

Don

Don always dresses in muted grays. That way you don't notice the suit, you notice the man. And keep it slim fit with two buttons, please. Try a Calvin Klein suit, for less than $200 from Macy's.

Don sports simple, dark, two-inch ties. You can find new ones at Brooks Brothers or Ben Sherman, or score a vintage find for even less.

Anchor the suit and tie with a slim fitting white shirt. You can get great shirts for under $50 at H&M and Uniqlo if you are so fortunate as to live near either discount chain. If you don't, check out the fitted shirts at Express (for Men) and use one of our Express coupons to save 20% off your order.

Polish off this look with a bit of pomade, like Woody's Headwax, now on sale at Folica.

Put a square handkerchief in your pocket and stare knowingly at every woman you meet, and you'll be deep in Draper mojo in no time.

Betty

Wanna look like a Betty? Not just any Betty, but the Betty Draper, the poster girl for former-models-turned-1960s-trophy-wives?

Of course you do! Find that vintage-inspired frock that is the perfect mix of fussy and fancy-free.

Be sure to accentuate a tiny waist. A belted sheath is perfectly buttoned up.

Score some ruby red lipstick from Beauty.com--the vivid, yet wearable NARS Dolce Vita should do the trick.

Who is your favorite Mad Men character?