Get Inspired: Television Icons

Let’s begin this post with a question we all know the answer to. How many of you have Netflix binge sessions on the regular? Yeah, we do too. And after watching all seven seasons of Mad Men in one week, you notice the way these guys dress is iconic. And as far as TV style icons go, men are making a come back. We’ve noticed these five characters in particular have a pretty clear and confident style.

Obviously, we’re going to start with Don Draper (Jon Hamm on Mad Men). How can you begin to mention men’s fashion or really fashion in general without talking about Don Draper’s legendary classic American suit? Thin lapels, textured weaves, and patterned colors make for a very masculine yet expressive style. Even when he is in his leisure weekend clothes, the man is dapper as always. You can bring this look into the real world by adding small details to kick up your own wardrobe. Think of adding pocket squares that don’t necessarily match but rather compliment your shirt and tie. Try wearing French cuffs with small, modest cufflinks. You’ll be a modern-day Don Draper in no time.

Ok now let’s go to opposite end of the spectrum. We’re moving a little bit into “bad boy” attire. It’s totally ok to have a man crush on Eric Northman (Alexandar Skarsgĺrd on True Blood). We don’t blame you. He’s a sheriff, vampire, Viking, and general badass with a heart of gold. And he dresses that way. He usually sticks to Charlie’s favorite color palette (black, black, and more black) and is often wearing v-necks, jeans, and dark denim or leather jackets along with those vampire teeth and sometimes a masculine necklace (Samantha’s favorite). Although we don’t recommend you going out and getting your own pair of vampire teeth (I mean, unless you’re into that sort of thing), this look is easily achievable. Grab yourself some slim fit jeans and a fitted leather jacket and you’ll be sporting the same dark, sleek look as Eric. Feel free to splurge on a nice jacket from Nordstrom that will be a staple in your closet for years and save with a fairly cheap v-neck from Gap.

Can all men be as adventurous in their style choices as Ben Wyatt (Adam Scott from Parks and Recreation)? We wouldn’t say he’s too crazy with the way he dresses but he goes out of the box just enough to grab our attention. The assortment of button-downs, checked shirts, sweaters, and patterned ties borders on hipster or maybe just nerdy but in the best possible way. Don’t be afraid to mix-and-match patterns as long as they coordinate and don a skinny tie every now and again. Throw a on a blazer or a Member’s Only jacket and jump on that geek chic trend.

Suit up. Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris on How I Met Your Mother) is an exec at a massive bank and definitely dresses the part. (Although admittedly, he dresses this way all of the time. Remember his suit pajamas? Classic.) When you have your tailor on speed dial, it’s safe to say that the suit is your uniform. And the man does look good. We think the most important thing to take away from Barney Stinson’s style is the fit. If your suit fits you and fits you well, everything else just falls into place. This is the one thing that you need to focus on when suit shopping. (Oh and don’t worry, we will cover how to find the perfect fit in a later post!) Also, maybe pick up a smart patterned tie and subtle pinstripe shirt while you’re at it. Pretty soon you’re style will be legion—wait for it—dary!

Speaking of mixing-and-matching patterns: Nard-dog (Ed Helms from The Office) anyone? Andy Bernard can rock pastels and bow ties like no other. He’s a master of the banjo and embraces confident, preppy attire with ease. From his cardigan sweaters to his perfectly pressed khakis, this man knows he looks good and is confident in his clothing choices. Let your inner prep out with some salmon-colored chinos, a sweater vest, and a bowtie. Beer me a good bowtie any day of the week. We’re on board.

Who’s your style icon? Do you ever base your outfits on someone you’ve seen on screen? Tag your outfit on Instagram with #225style and show us what you’re working with!

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