Get Stark Raving Mad for “Mad Men”
Setting: Early evening at the Roosevelt Hotel bar in Midtown East. A crowd is gathered around a 30something woman in a hip-hugging cap-sleeve dress. A gold pen necklace dangles below her perfect red pout. She is clearly holding court – and a Vodka Gimlet.
Sarah Grace: My name is Sarah Grace, and I’m a…Joan.
Group: Hiiiiii, Sarah Grace.
Clink!
Okay, so maybe there’s really no such thing as a “Mad Men” Addicts Anonymous group, but there should be for junkies like me – and I know I’m not alone.
Whether you’re a Don, a Pete, a Roger, a Betsy, a Peggy, or a Joan, one of the many brilliant things about AMC’s original series “Mad Men” is how very tangible and familiar all of the characters look, sound, and feel. It’s an authenticity that extends into every element of show, from the dialogue and cultural references to set dressing and wardrobe. Finally, here is a television series that forgoes the usual gimmicks and ploys in favor of just simply taking the time to tell an actual – and accurate – story.
Season one debuted in July 2007 to critical acclaim, yielding the best ratings (just shy of 1 million viewers) for any original AMC series to date. By this summer’s season three premiere, that number nearly tripled, with 2.8 million people tuning in to see what was going to happen next with their beloved Madison Avenue crew.
My only complaint so far about the current season should come as no surprise: “Less (insert every other character here), more Joan!” I mean, really, I could (and would) watch a spin-off entirely focused on her (and trust me, it would be way, way, way more interesting than crap like “Joey”). But as I have yet to receive word that such a series is in the works, I’m forced to find my owns ways to get more of a Joan fix (and without harassing Christina Hendricks, the jaw-droppingly gorgeous actress who puts to “voom” in Joan’s “vavavoom”).
As I realize I’m not the only one going Lady Gaga over this sassy, sexy little redhead, I invite other fans (boys and girls!) to copy me get on board and use my Joan Harris 101 guide!
The Pen Necklace – It’s Joan’s signature accessory at Sterling Cooper and as such, it would be impossible to even try to follow in her footsteps without nabbing one. Fortunately 1928 Jewelry makes one that is nearly identical, and a total steal at just $20.
The Hair – Nailing down the right shade of red can be tricky, not to mention expensive particularly in this economy, but try the Light Auburn option from Clairol’s Perfect 10 Nice n’ Easy line. It works incredibly well and will only set you back about $13.
The Dress – Find the perfect hip-hugging sheath at Stop Staring, which specializes in retro and vintage styles. The Mae Grey ($125) is oh-so-very Joan, but for a less expensive option, check out this sexy little plum number with keyhole front from Target for just $40.
The Accordion – If you’re gonna go Joan, go all the way. Check out the selection of new and vintage options at Accordion Heaven and practice your “C'est magnifique” to perfection.
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