Four Personal Style Lessons We Can Learn From Mad Men's Don Draper
Words by, Igee Okafor
Photography by, Erik Parapar
Nowadays in popular culture, we are more exposed to style directives that can be used as practical suggestions to aid how we embrace personal style. Television shows like Mad Men open up the conversation that encourages a "do what you want" attitude as long as you're aware of the rules in retrospect.
If you have seen the television show, you know what I mean. In addition to self assurance, there are distinct, and observable characteristics that embody a well engineered style. Providentially, they're quite easy to espouse, and thanks to influences like the 1960's portrayal of menswear on shows like Mad Men - specifically on the character, Don Draper, four key notes for applicable style that'll stand the test of time extend below:
- Personal Style Uniforms Are Not A Bad Thing
Signature style is valued when it's worn well and distinctly enough to make an impression. If you have found a styling formula that works for you, I encourage you to stick to it. You wake up in the morning, and you don't really have to think about it, but you know it looks good. It's one good way to stand out. People think of you, and they know what to expect. Some might argue it may not be a good thing because of the repetition aspect, and I say in the grand scheme of things, menswear was founded on uniforms. There are only so many ways you can wear suiting, coats, sweaters, hats, and more. It's about finding, and committing to what makes you look your best and finding ways to work with different variations of it. In color, silhouette, print or pattern. This way, you never have to worry about to wear, you spend less, and you retain stability.
- Chasing Short Lived Fads Will Get You Nowhere
This is not a hate statement against trends. I enjoy the concept of trends. However, they shouldn't be the driving factor of anyone's personal style. Supporting your personal style should solely be based on what you feel looks best on you - confidently. Even if it whatever it is doesn't relate back to what is being presented in the mainstream. Shopping can be expensive. Making sure you're spending wisely on articles of clothing that will stand the test of time. You'll be happy about it in the long run.
- Invest In Your Wardrobe Essentials
You know, a really good: oxford shirt, sport coat, dress shoe, wrist watch, and every other menswear staple that exists, is worth the buck. Look at it this way, if you're going to wear it more often than not, you want it to hold up for as long as you can have it. Spending the appropriate amount of money to get the best quality you can is the right idea. You get what you pay for.
- Partner Up with a Trusted Tailor
You won't always find the perfect sizing off the rack, and in this case, I'm especially referring to suiting. If Don Draper's style has taught us anything, it is that every man must honor his comportment. Fit will make or break an ensemble. Take measures to ensure that your clothing is tailored to the peculiar framing of your body.
Shop:
Sport Jacket - Tie / Institchu . Cuffed Trousers - Shirt - Collar Pin / Indochino . Double Monk Cap Toe / Johnston & Murphy . The Manero Flyback / Carl F. Bucherer . Custom Handcrafted Fedora / BM Franklin
Thank you for reading!