The AMC hit show “Mad Men” might be over, but the mysterious Don Draper and his team of politically incorrect but captivating ad execs left an indelible mark on men’s fashion. “Mad Men” did for men what “Sex and the City” did for women: it made just about everyone, from Fort Wayne, to New York, to Los Angeles, want to be a style icon in their own right.
(The show also made people want to drink bourbon in the office at 10a.m.).
“Mad Men” resurrected the restrained, clean-cut 1960’s business style, which featured suits that were slim in cut with skinny lapels, which in turn were paired with skinny ties. Less was more when it came to colors and patterns, and accessories, like cufflinks and pocket squares, were popular ways to signify power and prestige.
Today, the Mad Men-influence is seen on every red carpet, in every fashion magazine, and in boardrooms across the country. “The slimmer fitting suit is a popular option now. Every suit company is trimming their fit somewhat, both in the shoulders and across the middle,” says Chris Lambert, owner of Christopher James Menswear in Fort Wayne, Ind.
Lambert says men shouldn’t be afraid to embrace a closer fit. “If you find the right brand, or go to a good tailor, a slim suit can make you look sharp, clean, and sophisticated.”
One such line that Lambert carries at Christopher James Menswear is Paul Betenly, which features slimmer fitting suits in classic colors.
Of course, if you really want to make sure you are rocking the slim look in a way that best suits your body (no pun intended), you should consider custom made clothing, Lambert says. “Another option is having a slim suit custom made. Then you know it fits.”
Christopher James Menswear in Fort Wayne, Ind. offers custom and made-to-measure suits, and despite common misperceptions, the made-to-measure process is simple. CJM’s expert tailors take all your measurements, and CJM staff help you choose from thousands of fabrics and swatches, Lambert explains. “It is easy and we have numerous pricing options, so we can definitely make a suit and a price tag that fits.”
So, while the staff at CJM–unfortunately–can’t guarantee you Don Draper’s lady magnetism, they can make you look the part with a great fitting, Mad-Men inspired slim suit.