We go behind the scenes of the Mad Men collection for Banana Republic with Janie Bryant

Season 5 of Mad Men may be delayed until 2012, but thanks to Banana Republic‘s exclusive, 65-piece capsule collection by the show’s costume designer, Janie Bryant, we’ve got something to tide us over until then. Since its release last week, we’ve started feeling pangs of Draper-fever and so, in an attempt to calm ourselves, we chatted with Bryant about the collection and her work on the hit show. Read our interview after the jump!

Go behind the scenes with Janie »

How did you get involved with Banana Republic?
While designing the costumes for Mad Men, I was introduced to Simon Kneen, the creative director for Banana Republic. We shared a passion for the clothing of this era. Banana Republic is known for classic pieces and accessible luxury, making it the perfect outlet with which to collaborate on this collection.

What are the key items or silhouettes that really define Mad Men style?
For women, I’d say leopard print, strands of pearls, houndstooth, a lace dress or shell, and a sexy platform pump. For men, I would say a well-tailored pinstripe suit, a great white shirt, a fedora, a cardigan, and a wingtip shoe.

Do you have a favourite character to dress on Mad Men?

I love dressing all of them and have different favourites at different times, depending on the script. I enjoy dressing Joan (Christina Hendricks) as she is the quintessential fashion inspiration and silhouette of that era. Betty (January Jones) is a complex character whose wardrobe is so interesting, to reflect her changing moods. And Peggy (Elisabeth Moss) has evolved so much over the seasons to come into her own. Of course, I enjoy working with Don Draper (Jon Hamm)! I am passionate about menswear.

What has been your research and reference process as the show has progressed through the ’60s?
This involves a ton of reading, movies, going through archives, and visiting great vintage stores. This has been my passion for so long. It’s really an interesting experience evolving the wardrobes of these characters through such a distinct and influential fashion era.

And from the Banana Republic/Mad Men collection, what are your favourite pieces?
I love the leopard print pieces—the cardigan, belt, pump. I also love the dresses, especially the lace Betty dress. I love them all!

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