What would Don Draper do?

When attempting to throw the perfect “Mad Men”-themed party, the key is to remember that simple question.

What would Don Draper (aka the coolest man to don a three-buttoned suit since Frank Sinatra) do in order to ensure his party guests had the most swinging time possible?

To answer this enigma, it is absolutely imperative that one stays as true to the late-’50s, early-’60s “Mad Men” era as possible. The following three-pronged approach will surely guide a host to achieving just that.

Attire: Formal. We are talking sleek evening gowns for the women and impeccable-but-conservative suits for the men. Remember, unless he’s dragging on a Lucky Strike cigarette following a particularly disreputable tryst, Mr. Draper would never dare to be seen in anything but a custom-made, slim-fitting suit.

Atmosphere: Smoky. A friend of mine once remarked that the actors of “Mad Men” must go through about 1,000 cigarettes per episode. I honestly don’t think he’s that far off. Have your doorman (a necessity) hand a carton of Lucky Strikes to every guest when taking their coats. Your friends don’t smoke? Too bad. One should also make a point to obtain a collection of vintage Miles Davis, Burt Bacharach and Chubby Checker to have on heavy rotation.

Food and Drink: Hors d’oevres platters followed by a carved roast and lots of booze. The account executives of Sterling Cooper drink like dehydrated fish, so be sure to have your wet bar stocked with ample amounts of Scotch whiskey, gin, Heineken and enough garnishes to choke Pete Campbell’s ego.