Banana Republic celebrates the Spring 12 Mad Men collection

The fifth season of "Mad Men" is still weeks away, but there’s plenty of fashion-related merchandise branded with the show’s signature 1960s aesthetic to whet the appetites of fans eagerly anticipating its return.

Estee Lauder recently released a limited edition blush and lipstick, both housed in dainty gold cases inspired by actual Estee Lauder products from the 1960s. And Wednesday night marked Banana Republic’s Spring 2012 Mad Men collection, the second designed by Banana Republic Creative Director Simon Kneen and Emmy Award winning "Mad Men" costume designer Janie Bryant.

Guests gathered at the Hancock Park home of Kiernan Shipka (a.k.a. Sally Draper,) to see the clothes displayed on a tableau of models. The tailored silhouettes and polished look of the line, which was inspired by the show’s country-club scenes, is not unlike the fall collection -- in fact, according to Kneen, several popular pieces from the fall line were brought back and done in brighter colors and with lighter details. A sand-colored, sleeveless, body-skimming dress with a polka-dot sash is the spring version of last season’s best-selling LBD with lace at the neckline. Accessories such as sunglasses, frame bags and kitten heels are also back, but in spring hues like beige and tortoise. Girly white eyelet dresses (like the one Shipka wore to the event) are on trend for spring and come at a much easier price point than the Louis Vuitton version.

But it was the menswear that seemed to be the big hit of the evening. Fitted polo shirts paired with slim seersucker pants and light-colored suits, tailored to fit like Don Draper’s, drew some comments from the crowd. Several people pointed and nodded at the sharp-looking suits, with one guest saying, “Janie really knows how to dress a man.”

-- Melissa Magsaysay

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Top photo: The Banana Republic Mad Men spring 2012 collection. Credit: Banana Republic

Lower photo: Janie Bryant, Kiernan Shipka, Amy Smart and Simon Kneen. Credit: Banana Republic

Banana Republic dresses up wine bottles

The pairing of fashion and alcohol is no huge stretch. We’ve seen Jean   Paul Gaultier put a Piper Heidsieck champagne bottle in a sexy red corset and Pucci dress up a sleek bottle of Veuve Clicquot.

The trend is going more mass market this holiday season as Banana Republic has paired with Northern California winery Clos du Bois on a stylish label that will adorn their best-selling blends.

Banana Republic’s creative director Simon Kneen has illustrated two labels especially for Clos du Bois two most popular wines — the North Coast Chardonnay and North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon.

It’s no corset, but these bottles are also much more accessible than a bottle of champagne wearing couture covering. The Chardonnay is $16.99 and the Cabernet Sauvignon $18.99. Both are available beginning Nov. 1 at www.ClosduBois.com.

-- Melissa Magsaysay

 

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Photos: Clos du Bois' Banana Republic Cabernet Sauvignon, left, and Chardonnay. Credit: Clos du Bois

Banana Republic launches a 'Mad Men'-inspired collection

 "Mad Men" continues to make its mark on the fashion industry. Only this time, the homage is on a more mass scale than the runway odes we've seen over the past few years (see Michael Kors' fall 2008 collection).

Banana Republic has partnered with "Mad Men" costume designer Janie Bryant on a limited-edition collection for men and women inspired by the AMC show — launching online and in stores Aug. 11.

The capsule collection, which features around 65 pieces, offers an updated take on the buttoned-up looks of the 1960s. Meaning, the bullet bra-shaped sheaths and boxy men's suits seen on the show have been softened into gently draped suiting, dresses and women's separates that can seamlessly integrate into modern work wardrobes — but still maintain a little '60s flavor.

For men there are slim knit sweaters, tailored suit separates and fitted trousers, along with Don Draper-esque accessories including a money clip, cotton pocket squares, silk ties, tie bars and fedoras.

Women's styles include a thigh-length trench coat, tailored dresses in solid hues and floral prints, high-waisted skirts, silk tie-neck blouses and the kinds of accessories we used to pilfer from Grandma: printed scarves, leopard-print heels, skinny belts and a multi-stranded pearl necklace. Prices range from $39.50 for a silk scarf to $450 for a men's suit.

“Janie was instrumental in helping us achieve the series aesthetic and standard of authenticity with this capsule collection," said Banana Republic creative director Simon Kneen, "offering sketches, her own inspirations and actual artifacts from the production set to help inspire the ‘Mad Men’ within all of us.”

-- Emili Vesilind

Photos: Looks from the Banana Republic Mad Men collection. Credit: Banana Republic.

 

[Updated] Frugal Fashion: In a bikini or on the red carpet, 'Arthur' star Helen Mirren exudes confident style

At age 65, Academy Award-winning actress Dame Helen Mirren continues to take sex appeal to an entirely new level. Ever wondered whether you should you wear a bikini in your 50s and 60s? If you're Mirren, it's a definite fashion do. Uh huh, "Calendar Girls" anyone?

With no signs of slowing down anytime soon, Mirren is slated to receive a career achievement award on March 31 at CinemaCon, the annual convention and trade show for movie theater owners (formerly called ShoWest) in Las Vegas. She's also starring in  the much-anticipated remake of "Arthur," with Russell Brand and Jennifer Garner, due out in April.

Not only does Mirren prove that talented actresses of any age can compete with Hollywood starlets on the big screen, but the Brit can show them up on the red carpet as well. It's a fact that she still looks good in a bikini, but her real talent is masterfully exuding elegance, fully clothed.

Never one to shy away from an opportunity to look devilishly sublime on the red carpet, Mirren took the Sunday church suit and gave it a much needed makeover when she attended a special screening of her film "The Tempest," when it opened recently in London. She  added some peek-a-boo cleavage and a flirty bubble skirt. To transform her skirt suit from business attire to red carpet ready, she chose an uber chunky statement necklace, sleek silver envelope clutch and nude heels.

A skirt suit is always great for work but you'll need to find one with character if you're going to wear it to drinks after. Mirren chose a striped version but any pretty print, unique hemline or belt accent will turn your skirt suit into evening wear. The Tahari by ASL suit, belted jacket and skirt for $139.99 at Macy's has a fun belted jacket, The Nine & Co. tweed skirt suit at JC Penney for $59.99 comes in a chic tweed, or the pleated hem skirtsuit from Metrostyle.com for $47.99 has a flirty pleated hemline. [For the record: An earlier version of this post featured a Tahari skirt suit from Dillard's but that item is nearly sold out. It was replaced by the skirt suit from JC Penney.]

Statement jewelery pieces are an inexpensive way to add a little fancy factor to any outfit whether it's a skirt suit or a plain colored tee-shirt and jeans; and they make you feel like you're playing a modern version of dress up, without the boring pearls. Get Mirren's chunky jewelry look with the Fanned branches bibbed necklace from Banana Republic for $41.50 or the Tinley Road three layer necklace from Piperlime.com for $18.99.

For any style-conscious woman on a budget, to say that a go-to reversible clutch is a golden find would be a gross understatement. We're talking best-use-of-money-ever status. This reversible clutch by Nine West for $39.99 gives you a silver sheen for day and a little black clutch for your evening cocktail party. A good pair of nude-colored heels should leave you just as giddy. They go with anything and everything and can be your closet's best asset. Kohl's carries a pair of Elle Yalena platform high heels for $39.99. 

Happy shopping!

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Twitter.com/Jenn_Harris_

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Photo: Helen Mirren attends a special preview screening of "The Tempest" at the Mayfair Hotel on March 3 in London. Credit: Gareth Cattermole /Getty Images.

Suit photo: From left, Tahari by ASL suit, belted jacket and skirt from Macys.com. Credit: Macy's; Nine & Co. tweed skirt suit. Credit: Jcpenney.com; Pleated hem skirtsuit from Metrostyle.com. Credit: Metrostyle.com.

Necklace photo: From left, Fanned branches necklace from Banana Republic. Credit: Bananarepublic.com; Tinley Road necklace. Credit: Piperlime.com.

Bottom photo: From left, Ninewest reversible clutch. Credit: Ninewest.com; Elle nude pump. Credit: Kohls.com.

[UPDATED at 11:00 AM 03/16/2011]

Frugal Fashion: Golden Globes glam on a budget

The buzz around red carpet interviews at awards shows is almost always drowned out by the same question: "Who are you wearing?" Last week's 68th Golden Globe Awards was no different...shocking. I don't mean to sound bored with it all and I'm the first to admit that I enjoy watching the red carpet arrivals more than the actual award shows, but every year I'm always left with the same burning question: "Yea, yea, Marchesa this, Armani that...but what about the jewelry?" When you're a fashion-obsessed little girl who finally wiggles her way into her mother's closet, you don't reach for the gowns -- you put your tiny feet straight into her heels, wrap her pearls around your neck and go for the diamonds.

Sure last week's leading ladies were dressed in designer bigwigs like Lanvin, Versace, Calvin Klein and Vera Wang, and fashion websites, including our own, went on and on about the 10 best dressed ladies of the evening, but an Oscar-worthy gown is always short of amazing without the right accessories. Would Catherine Zeta-Jones really sparkle in her Golden Globes Monique Lhuillier emerald green gown without her earrings? To be honest, that woman would sparkle in something as mundane as a burlap sack, but the earrings did help! Her diamond chandelier earrings draw your eyes to her gorgeous face and were the perfect accent to her strapless dress. Natalie Portman also looked stunning in her Viktor & Rolf gown but she gave her maternity glow a boost with her Tiffany layered diamond necklace. The piece definitely made a statement but still gives the look of a soft, dainty piece of jewelry.

A pair of diamond earrings and necklace are a given when accessorizing an evening gown but when you're waving to adoring fans why not give your wrists a little extra sparkle? 'The Closer' star Kyra Sedgwick rocked a bright orange Emilio Pucci dress at the Globes and adorned her right wrist with a number of chunky, shiny gold bangles.

It might be easier to clasp a dozen gold bangles on your wrist or fix a diamond necklace around your neck with a movie star bank account, but there's no reason why you can't go glam on a budget.

A layered necklace is the perfect way to make a statement with your jewelry but keep things looking refined. If you have a flare for the dramatic try this Lydell NYC Tiered Chain Beaded Necklace from Bloomingdales for $48, or the mixed metal Peggy Necklace from Chico's for $58. For something a little softer, the Fallling stars necklace from Banana Republic is $47.99.

The chandelier earring went on hiatus for a while but I think it's safe to say they are back -- at least on the red carpet. If you're looking for the perfect pair to wear to a charity gala check out these frugal finds: Chandelier drop earrings from Arden B for $24, Durol earrings in White Nubuk from Aldo for $13.98, Apt. 9 Jet-Tone Simulated Crystal Beaded Chandelier earrings on sale for $10 at Kohl's or the Nadri Crystal Teardrop Chandelier earrings from Nordstrom for $88.

When it comes to bangles, go for the gold and the more the merrier. Budget shoppers can look for bangles sold as a set, giving you a layered look without having to buy 10 bracelets. Mix in some chunkier pieces with stone, pearl or glass accents for fun. Nordstrom has a great set of bangles by Cara for $58. Layer the bangles with a set of four Kaya bangles from Chico's for $38 or the Astronomer's bracelet from Banana Republic for $39.50.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Top photos: Natalie Portman, left and Catherine Zeta Jones. Credits: Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images and Mike Nelson / European Pressphoto Agency

Middle photo: Kyra Sedgwick's bangles. Credit: Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images

Necklace photo from left: Lydell necklace. Credit: Bloomingdales. Peggy necklace. Credit: Chico's. Falling Stars necklace. Credit: Banana Republic. 

Earrings photo from left:Chandelier Drop earrings. Credit: Arden B. Durol earrings. Credit: Aldo. Apt. 9 earrings. Credit: Kohl's. Nadri Crystal earrings. Credit: Nordstrom.

Bangles photo from left: Cara bangles. Credit Nordstrom. Kaya bangles. Credit: Chico's. Astronomer's bracelet. Credit: Banana Republic.

Frugal Fashion: Anne Hathaway's classic look at a 'Love and Other Drugs' screening

It seems like actress Anne Hathaway is everywhere this year. She was recently seen on the cover of Vogue magazine, has been making public appearances galore to promote her new movie "Love & Other Drugs," and was just announced as co-host of the 83rd Academy Awards with actor James Franco. She's no stranger to the Oscars, with a nomination for playing the troubled Kym in "Rachel Getting Married" and has been in more than 15 films -- and she's only 28. Phew, just thinking about her career is making me a little fatigued, but for a busy girl, Hathaway always looks put together.

At a recent screening of "Love & Other Drugs" in NYC, Hathaway wore a tuxedo-inspired satin white shirt tucked into a long black Salvatore Ferragamo pleated skirt. I can't say if she was trying to emulate the essence of Carolina Herrera -- think Herrera backstage at a show in a crisp white shirt tucked into a long skirt -- but the simplicity of Hathaway's look perfectly channeled Herrera's signature class and distinction.

She radiates natural beauty with her silky, wavy hair, ivory skin and big brown eyes. At the premiere she kept her jewelry at a minimum, making her red lips her best accessory. Copying Hathaway's red lips are a big part of this look, but wearing uber red lipstick can be tricky so be sure to check out this week's "Your Stylist" column with Melissa Magsaysay on how to do it right.

For a shirt similar to Hathaway's you'll need a classic white or ivory blouse. Try this non-iron fitted sateen shirt from Banana Republic for $59.50 on the left. For an even more frugal aternative, get this Style&Co Rhinestone tuxedo shirt from Macy's for $24.98 on the right. Not only can you tuck these shirts into a long skirt for an evening look with heels, you can pair them with a pencil skirt or slacks for work and with denim on the weekends.

 

Long skirts made quite a comeback for fall. No longer just for the elderly school teacher clasping a ruler, these modern versions sit just above or on the waist and fall well below the knee in materials that range from leather to chiffon to jersey cotton. Hathaway chose a bulky pleated skirt, but for more versatility these skirts will allow you to pull off a variety of looks.  From left, the Investments long "Travel Smart" long gored skirt from Dillards for $21.60, American Apparel's Chiffon double-layered full length skirt for $58, long skirt from H&M for $19.95 and the Pleated Maxi from Topshop for around $65.

These white shirts and long skirts are super versatile and will work with a number of items you'll already have in your closet.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy, but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Photo top: Actress Anne Hathaway arrives at a screening of her film "Love & Other Drugs"  on Nov. 24 in New York. Credit: AP Photo / Starpix, Marion Curtis.

Photo: Shirt from Banana Republic. Credit: Banana Republic.

Photo: Shirt from Macy's. Credit: Macy's.

Photo: Skirt from Dillards. Credit: Dillards.

Photo: Skirt from American Apparel. Credit: American Apparel.

Photo: Skirt from H&M. Credit: H&M.

Photo: Skirt from Topshop: Credit: Topshop.

Bananas for 'Mad Men': Premiere and parties kick off continued partnership

The style-minded madness of "Mad Men" is back in full swing  -- and well before Sunday's Season 4 premiere on AMC.

Things kicked off with a Tuesday evening screening of the season's first episode sponsored by marketing partner Banana Republic (there were so many RSVPs, the screening had to be moved from a smaller venue to the Mann Chinese 6 Theatre at Hollywood & Highland), followed by small party in the garden of the Chateau Marmont and an intimate luncheon on Wednesday at the Sunset Tower Hotel that included the show's Emmy-nominated costume designer, Janie Bryant, and Banana Republic's creative director, Simon Kneen.

Most of the cast was in attendance at both the screening and the after party; stylish standouts included Christina Hendricks in a black lace Dolce & Gabbana dress, Elisabeth Moss in a one-shoulder Oscar De La Renta number, and an adorable Kiernan Shipka (who plays the Drapers' daughter, Sally) in a bubble dress, sitting perfectly poised, hands clasped politely in the roped-off VIP section of the party.

Banana Republic collaborates with Chan Luu on jewelry collection

Banana Republic has tapped jewelry designer Chan Luu to create a collection of limited-edition bracelets for the brand — the chain's first-ever collaboration with an outside jewelry designer.

Launching Thursday at Banana Republic’s accessories-only store in San Francisco, Edition by Banana Republic, the collection features Luu’s signature wrap style, using custom-dyed thread or leather with semiprecious stones, gold and sterling silver. 

Weekend Update: $1 designer goods at theOutnet.com, Ron Artest at WSS, Banana Republic and Gap outlet deals

Sales

What can you get for a buck these days? A $4,123 Christian Lacroix? A $2,559 Halston bag? Or a pair of $595 Marc Jacobs shoes? You have a chance to get these coveted items and more on April 16 at theOutnet.com, provided you RSVP here by April 11. Net-A-Porter’s online outlet celebrates its one-year anniversary with a $1 Pop-up Sale featuring more than 2,000 goodies, including women's ready-to-wear items, bags, shoes and accessories.

Banana Republic Factory Store and Gap Outlet are celebrating spring with two hefty sales: Banana Republic Factory Store is taking 40% off all in-store fashions through April 6. Gap Outlet is offering 70% off plus new swim styles for $15 through April 15.

For locations, go to gap.com and bananarepublic.com

Events

On Saturday, Warehouse Shoe Sale is celebrating 25 years in business with a party featuring the Lakers' Ron Artest, meeting and signing. WSS is also taking up to 60% off footwear as part of its spring clearance sale.

3102 Century Blvd., Inglewood. (310) 677-8247. Noon to 3 p.m.

Kiki De Montparnasse is having a sexy sample sale Saturday and Sunday, taking up to 75% off past-season lingerie, vintage garments, apothecary and home goods. Current spring styles are 20% off.

8280 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

-- Max Padilla

Photo: A Christian Lacroix dress, Halston bag and Marc Jacobs shoes will go for $1 during theOutnet.com's one-day anniversary sale. Credit: theOutnet.com

Statuesque: Where to shop when you're super-tall

Plus-size and petite clothing is fairly easy to find these days -- particularly "basics." But there's a third body type that's also difficult to shop for -- and is under-represented in the marketplace: extra-tall, thin women.

It may sound silly. After all, models are string beans, and everyone talks about how clothes are made exclusively for them. But really, once clothes go into production, hem-lengths are often shortened, and proportions rejiggered for average-limbed ladies -- especially in the mass market tiers.

I remember a 6'1" friend in college who always looked like she was waiting for a flood, her pant legs were so short. When she complained about ill-fitting clothes, we all rolled our eyes at what seemed like a narcissistic complaint: Woe is me, I'm too tall and thin. 

But years later, I understand how frustrating it can be not to be able to find stylish duds that fit -- ones that are also affordable. So after a little digging around, we unearthed a few online-based resources that might make getting dressed a little easier for our statuesque sisters.

* Long Tall Sally

Online British retailer Long Tall Sally has been making clothes for women 5'8" and taller since 1976. Though not terribly fashion-forward, this is a good shop for workwear and to scout for that beachy dress you can wear to parties all summer long. Sizes range from 4 to 18 and prices start at about $22 for a simple white camisole (with an extra-long torso!), topping out at about $299 for a turquoise leather biker jacket.