Mad Men, Mad Fashion

The 1960s in America was a time of excess, the loosening of social constrictions, and counter-cultural revolution. Women now had a stronger presence in the workplace and fashion began to change to reflect the shift in clothing needs. Hemlines rose as dresses and skirts became more tailored to women's bodies. While women like Joan on Mad Men wore these tighter, curve-hugging dresses, some still played it cool with bold A-line dresses and elbow-length white gloves, like Betty. It's no wonder that these styles have caught on in today's fashion scene, especially after the beginning of Mad Men on AMC. This show has reminded designers of the cool, chic style that the 1960s exuded. Women in bold florals and column gowns and men in tailored suits with great hats to match... It is a great thing to harken back to.

In order to achieve this timeless look in a modern setting, try wearing collared shirts or even try out the new trend collared necklaces (make your own here!). On colder days, don't be afraid to let you coat just hang on your shoulders. Pair pleated skirts with bold floral shirts and layered statement necklaces. Finish off your look with a structured handbag and in no time you'll begin to see yourself as a modern Jackie O! If this style is a little too girly for you, try adding a studded belt or men's blazer to help soften the impact.

To get more inspiration for this style, tune into the season premiere of Mad Men on AMC tonight at 9/8c!

Mad Men, Mad Fashion by historyandhighheels

A P C long sleeve cotton dress, $355
Victoria Beckham coat, £2,100
Aldo heels, $62
Dolce Gabbana tote handbag, £1,055
Tom binns jewelry, $658
Necklace, $13
Wet Seal south sea pearl necklace, $9.50
Alan Hannah vintage bridal necklace, £60
Leatherock grey belt, £120

Color Craze

No matter what color you decide to call this hue (mint, seafoam, pistachio, etc.) you are bound to see it gracing the sidewalks to the runway. It's similar to Tiffany blue, which makes it no surprise that women can easily fall in love with the color again. It's one of those colors that looks great on everyone and just is eye-catching. Here is my mintspiration:

Mintspiration by historyandhighheels 

Eberjey triangle bra, $32
Steve Madden platform high heels, $50
Steve Madden platform high heels, $50
Diane von Fürstenberg leather clutch bag, $309
Amrita singh jewelry, $24
A Guide To Elegance: For Every Woman Who Wants To Be Well And Properly..., £9.17

Spring Inspiration

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

If I was being paid a lot more than I am, I would definitely buy these pieces. The bright pastels are a big trend this spring, and I especially love the Nine West floral pumps. They are a great alternative to the popular (but very difficult to wear) floral patterned pants. I tried on a pair at H&M and did not think I was bold enough for that style! I have a that Cath Kidston wallet in another print and absolutely love it! What styles and new spring items inspire you for this season?

Spring Trends to Try

Now that March is upon us, it is time to begin thinking about spring fashion. The biggest predicament that many of us run into is questioning what to put away for future seasons, what to find amongst our already stored clothes, and what to go out and buy. To get rid of some of this mystery, here is your personal fashion guide and the highlights of the top trends for spring 2012!

Find your:	Buy:	Put away your:
Skinny Jeans	Colored Pants	Way Too Tight Jeggings
Crop Tops	Leather Leggings	Chunky Knit Pieces
Maxi Skirts	Asymmetrical Skirts	One-Shoulder Tops
Leopard Print Items	Mint-Colored Pieces	Wrap Sweaters
Floral Pieces	Chambray Shirts
Pleated Skirts
Sheer Shirts

Spring 2012 is all about clean, feminine lines with a fun and glamorous edge to them. Last year’s popular trend color-blocking is still in this year. The way to make this work in the Midwest is by pairing like colors together, such as red trousers and a pink shirt. Also, the quirky mixing of bold patterns style is trendy, look to J.Crew and Kate Spade for inspiration. In order to achieve this, try wearing stripes and florals or polka dots and leopard print  – that way the patterns don’t compete with one another. Bright clothing is a go-to look for this season. If you are intimidated by wearing neon, instead add a vibrant bag to your outfit to give it some zest. Colored pants can seem like a trend for the fairly young, so if you don’t want to embrace it, swap out the pants for a brilliant skirt. Just remember, if you are bottom-heavy, wear a light colored shirt to help balance the look. Mint green is the color for spring; so make sure to find a way to incorporate it! Finally, the glitter trend is still raging in the fashion world; so don’t put away your sequined items just yet!

color-blocking by historyandhighheels 

T shirt, €16
DVb Victoria Beckham stretch denim jeans, $262
Sam Edelman studded pumps, $243
River Island party handbag, $54
Kate Spade hardware jewelry, $148

Twice as Nice by historyandhighheels 

Hope pirate shirt, $77
J Crew pencil skirt, $98
Valentino wedge heels, £275
Nine west handbag, $69
Madewell leather belt, $45