While working on a photoshoot for Street Chic last week, I came to the distressing realization that street style is infiltrating the workplace and causing a rapid deterioration of business morale and productivity.

This became even more clear when I saw an episode of Mad Men last week. Have you seen it, Dear Reader? It is a simply marvelous show about Madison Avenue advertising in the 1960’s. Everything about the show is pitch-perfect: the sets, the costumes, the manners. Well, the etiquette of the misogynistic office men must be improved, and the office women are tarty, but I applaud the Sterling Cooper agency dress code. Joan Holloway, the Office Manager, knows her assets and dresses to show off her dangerous curves.

The real wardrobe stars of Mad Men, though, are Betty Draper and Rachel Menken. Betty is a homemaker who brings glamour back into home. Ladies, burn those Juicy Couture tracksuits and follow Betty Draper’s lead. Her equestrian style is exquisite this season.

As the head of Menken’s department store, Rachel Menken epitomizes the glamour and elegance of working in 1960’s Manhattan and is an instant fashion icon. You can learn a lot from her office attire through her impeccable wardrobe, as well as my tips for elegant office attire.

Lucinda’s List: The Sophisticated Workplace

1. Dress for Success - Yes, it is an old adage, but if you don’t look good, you don’t feel good, so how can you do good work?
2. Hosiery is Essential  - The internet is wild with debates about nylons and I will end it now. There is no room for bare legs in the office.
3. Power Down the Power Suit - Suits can be wonderful, but they can be boxy and box in your personality. Punch up the suit with some sass: a scarf, a brooch, a belt.
4. Hair Scare - The office is no place for Manic Panic. Keep the colours neutral, and the cut chic. Remember to visit your stylist every four to six weeks.
5. Do the Do - When fixing your hair, always remember to check the back to make sure it’s perfect. Even though you can’t see the back of your head, your coworkers can.
6. Ignore Casual Fridays - These should not exist, so pretend they do not. Never bring casual into your workplace.
7. Heels Make Deals - Want to get ahead? Wear a pair of heels to improve your posture, increase your height, and gain confidence, but leave the stilettos at home.
8. Ease the Accessories - I advised to punch up the suit, not knock it out. Do not over-accessorise at the office. Always take something off before leaving the house.
9. De-Scent - Perfume is wonderful and necessary, but watch the application. Spray into the air and walk through the mist to avoid having your scent arrive at the office before you do.
10. Trend-Blend - You want to be fashionable, but you also want to exercise some restraint in your work wardrobe, so build the basics and add a few hot items per season.