In this week's episode, Peggy made a huge mistake by trying to act like Don, almost costing SCDP the Heinz account with a big outburst.
But the good news? She wasn't dressed like Don, at least.
Peggy has been having a wardrobe identity crisis since the beginning of the season. In the first episode, she repeated the dress worn in the last episode of season 4. Then, for a while, it was shapeless, vaguely menswear-inspired camp shirts that were all business and no pleasure.
But now, it's back to cute dresses and girly details. Specifically, the scarf-bow blouse (unfortunately named "pussycat bow blouse"), which nods to mod without being too over-the-top. Feminine but conservative, the pussycat bow became the go-to layering piece for the young professional woman. You can see it last year, done beautifully, on Dr. Faye Miller. (I really miss that character, don't you?)
Whether it's a blouse with a built-in bow or a scarf tied around the neck, the key to this piece is all about the pairing -- and here's where Peggy went wrong. In a time when her authority would naturally be questioned, she wore her bow in an age-appropriate way (with a peter pan-collar blouse and a jumper) instead of what would be construed as more professional (with a skirt suit, a la Dr. Miller). And while her outburst definitely qualified as "unprofessional," it wouldn't have come across as quite the tantrum if she had went with a more grown-up look.
Unsurprisingly, the client reacts as if she were a teenager flouting curfew. In fact, he says: "You're lucky I have a daughter [and am used to this]!"
Outbursts aside, the ad business is one of image. Don has obviously learned this, but Peggy still has a ways to go. Let's hope she catches on.
Elsewhere in the episode, we see Mrs. Roger Sterling wearing a fake ponytail, Megan repeats a (gorgeous) outfit and Don is still Don. All these highlights -- and more -- in this week's Mad Men style recap slideshow below.
And don't forget to check back next Monday to discuss episode 7's sartorial highlights.
