TireKicker:
At my bank it's business formal 4x a week and business casual on Fridays.

A lot of the banks started going back to formal a couple of years ago after the dot-com bust--supposedly in an effort to shed the image of the laid-back tech entrepreneur whose company lost everybody a lot of money.

At least, that's my explanation.

As opposed to all the guys dressed in full suits who lost everybody a lot of money 07-08? lol

"Now go get your f'n shinebox!"
 
Jimbo:
trading floors are biz casual at most. some of the chicago ops used to wear jeans

Not anymore, unfortunately. A few trading floors have already gone business formal for everyone, or some sort of a mix. Lehman, for instance, is business formal. At Citi it's mostly business casual but there are entire desks that go formal. At some other floors the sales force is all business formal, traders are business casual, and structurers are desk-dependant.

 

Weekends are whatever -- I've seen sweatpants, hairy guys in their undershirts swilling beer, whatever. I wear jeans or slacks and a nice sweater, though... I'd hate for my VP to see me in a client meeting and think back to that weekend when I came in old sweatpants and a tank top or something.

Weekdays are b-cas, heavy on the b, light on the cas. Some people wear suits every day, women especially. No cleavage, no flats, no denim of any color. Some guys get away with not wearing ties, but most don't try it. Guys' shirts are often Pink (not pink) or Burberry, never Brooks Brothers (or if they are, nobody admits it). Shoes for guys are Gucci or Ferragamo; shoes for girls are Chanel, Louboutin, Choos, or Ferragamo.

Not having much money, you can imagine that I choose the Ferragamo. Heh.

 

Where on earth do you work that all of the analysts dress so well? Are you at a boutique ala Bstone?

There's a lot of brooks brothers among the analysts at BBs. It's awful looking and you can usually tell if a shirt is Brooks, but people still wear them. I mean, most analysts aren't exactly loaded, and a lot just don't know how to dress anyway. There were a bunch of guys in my summer class wearing pleated pants, slip-on unpolished loafers, ill-fitting brooks brothers shirts, and j crew ties.

Personally, though, I'd rather just own 5 thomas pink (or actually zegna and ralph lauren purple label are much better in my opinion) than 15 brooks brothers shirts if you're on a limited budget. Same goes for suits - if you're business casual, just buy a few very nice suits versus a bunch of cheap pieces of crap. No one will notice if you repeat clothing often...ties perhaps, but definitely not shirts.

I'd really like to get into your bank if the female analysts dress so well. A lot of the girls at my bank were wearing cheap heels and always always pants. Skirts should really be required..much more classy.

 
dav3100:
Where on earth do you work that all of the analysts dress so well? Are you at a boutique ala Bstone?

There's a lot of brooks brothers among the analysts at BBs. It's awful looking and you can usually tell if a shirt is Brooks, but people still wear them. I mean, most analysts aren't exactly loaded, and a lot just don't know how to dress anyway. There were a bunch of guys in my summer class wearing pleated pants, slip-on unpolished loafers, ill-fitting brooks brothers shirts, and j crew ties.

Are people really this picky? I had always assumed that a good suit conveyed that you respected your job and your employers and basically had three characteristics:

-Nothing flashy (dark colors) -Wool -Fits properly

Do people really care if you wear a $150 Stafford Wool or a $1500 Zegna? After all, my jacket usually sat on the back of my chair for most of the day.

 
MidwesternBumpkin:
dav3100:
Where on earth do you work that all of the analysts dress so well? Are you at a boutique ala Bstone?

There's a lot of brooks brothers among the analysts at BBs. It's awful looking and you can usually tell if a shirt is Brooks, but people still wear them. I mean, most analysts aren't exactly loaded, and a lot just don't know how to dress anyway. There were a bunch of guys in my summer class wearing pleated pants, slip-on unpolished loafers, ill-fitting brooks brothers shirts, and j crew ties.

Are people really this picky? I had always assumed that a good suit conveyed that you respected your job and your employers and basically had three characteristics:

-Nothing flashy (dark colors) -Wool -Fits properly

Do people really care if you wear a $150 Stafford Wool or a $1500 Zegna? After all, my jacket usually sat on the back of my chair for most of the day.

No one really gives a shit. This thread is for idiots who want to pay a bunch of extra money on clothes.

 

I can't imagine that brooks brothers is really looked down upon this much. I am as snobby as almsot anyone I know when it comes to clothes and I regularly stop by Brooks, and own many staples pieces of clothing from them.

Can you tell a brooks shirt from a RLPL? Of course. But, that doesn't mean that the BB shirt is terrible, it just means that the PL shirt is nicer.

Seriously, if all of you think that people making $100-150k a year should be wearing all Purple Label, you are severely mistaken.

Also, some people wear Brooks and JPress because they are fans of a more traditional way of dress than others. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

 
Ronald R:
I can't imagine that brooks brothers is really looked down upon this much. I am as snobby as almsot anyone I know when it comes to clothes and I regularly stop by Brooks, and own many staples pieces of clothing from them.

Can you tell a brooks shirt from a RLPL? Of course. But, that doesn't mean that the BB shirt is terrible, it just means that the PL shirt is nicer.

Seriously, if all of you think that people making $100-150k a year should be wearing all Purple Label, you are severely mistaken.

Also, some people wear Brooks and JPress because they are fans of a more traditional way of dress than others. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Yeah, people are a little too harsh about not wearing Brooks Brothers. For a fucking analyst, Brooks Brothers is FINE.

But if I had to disagree with anything you wrote, I'd have to point out that Brooks =/= J Press.

 
Best Response

Sure, there's absolutely nothing wrong with that... as long as you don't mind the made-in-Taiwan and mall-bought look. Not to mention fused construction on suit jackets that make the shoulder seams pucker after ten wearings. Nobody notices such tiny things, right? Right?

Brooks Brothers makes "traditional" suits like Crate and Barrel makes traditional home decor: at as low a cost as possible, with as little variation as possible, while remaining visually similar to luxury goods. These brands are designed for the demographic that marketers refer to as "aspirational". Same as Armani Exchange. You think Brooks Brothers is "traditional"because of the marketing campaign that drives the brand image. Because you can walk into any suburban office building in Witchita Falls or Louisville and say "I'm wearing Brooks Brothers" and get instant brand recognition across the upper lower to upper middle classes. (That's not a good thing.) The key to breaking free from the mall-rat aesthetic is to stop and think about distribution chains and the economics of luxury branding.

And I'm not saying this is the way it should be; I'm saying it's the way it is. My mom's electricity gets turned off every other month due to nonpayment, but many of the other analysts on this floor are the scions of millionaires and quasi-millionaires. I know one guy that's been wearing Pink since he was fifteen. There's another guy from Eastern Europe who grew up with next to nothing, but you'd better bet he lives in a crappy cheap apartment so that he can go out every weekend and buy more (and more and more and more) Burberry, Gucci, Pink, and whatever else guys are wearing these days.

Just calling it like it is. I don't like it, but I'm in no position to fight it from where I am at the moment.

 

And I agree with the tailor comment, completely.

I think it is difficult to call brooks brothers "mall bought" and not call pink that as well. Both are mass produced.

Also, like it or not, Mis Ind, Brooks is a staple of old line, conservative, money, WASP male clothing. The ones that can afford to are wearing the Golden Fleece stuff and MTM, but it is Brooks nonetheless.

 

The old line is no longer in control of investment banks, and Brooks Brothers has cheapened its brand to widen its penetration across demographics.

And yes, bespoke is an excellent option, but while parents are usually happy to peel off an extra thousand bucks every now and then to buy Junior his new clothes, I've never known any parent willing to dress their kids head to toe in bespoke.

 

Agree with the comment about bespoke. But while it's true you can get some bespoke clothes at relatively inexpensive prices, I'm always a bit skeptical about the quality of the fabric if the bespoke suit is not very very expensive. At least with good brands like armani, ralph lauren pl, etc., you know you're getting relatively good quality (and its cheaper than good quality bespoke). The same can't really be said for some random tailor in nyc or some internet tailor where you just enter your size measurements. Speaking of which, does anyone know where to find a list of the top tailors in nyc? I'd like to get exactly one well-made bespoke suit lol.

 

Zala, all I'm saying is that I want to present a neat, attractive image to my superiors at all times. Between guys it's okay because guys don't focus too much on each other, and because there's a certain bracing masculinity about being ugly, poorly-groomed, and generally a sloppy human being (I love boys, but you got to admit that some of y'all get kinda foul every now and then).

But I'm a girl, and I don't want my male VP to come into the office and see me with unmanicured toes in flip-flops, an ass clad in bulky sweatpants, and an old t-shirt with my favorite cartoon character on it. I may wear that stuff while cleaning house, but not at work. That doesn't make him gay, I don't think.

However, some girls dress like that on weekends. Ick.

 

our senior people are mostly, at least the ones who have taste, savile row and the like. i suspect that a couple have been getting some shirts from trips to india though.

the less senior people all dress formally, but with varying degrees of classiness.

i dress formally and conservatively, most of my work wardrobe is tailored or bespoke, but i haven't been at the analyst level for a while and probably took 18 months to assemble my collection. when i was an analyst i had one tailored suit, a couple of designer/brand name stuff that were adjusted slightly to fit perfectly. i also had a cheapo suit during my first few months (also adjusted by a good tailor), but i got rid of that as soon as my cash flow permitted. Shirts have always been Pink and the like, even during formal/semi formal events at univeristy. i think of it as capex and budget accordingly. my casual wear tends to less expensive.

to analysts on a budget my advice is to dress conservatively and it probably pays to get your suits adjusted by a good tailor. better fitting cloths make a significant difference to your appearance.

 

Ronald, don't be snarky. Yes, the words "formal" and "semi-formal" are constantly misused, particularly in the US, but almost nobody reads Emily Post anymore. I do, but that's me. We can't expect every single banker in his/her twenties and thirties to behave as if they were raised by old-money families.

On the other hand, I believe your comments are slightly imprecise. There is more than one level of "formal" in both the US and in Britain. In the US, one encompasses white tie, one encompasses black tie, and of course in Britain there are strata of society in which orders are worn at times, in which case they'll be called for on the lower right hand side of the engraved invitation. You may wear black tie at a semi-formal event, or (as you correctly note) a cutaway, but in most US cities it is perfectly acceptable to wear business formal to semi-formal events, particularly before 8:00, particularly if you're a banker.

So let's not be snarky, or you're gonna get snarked. There's no reason for your average banker or banking candidate to know this stuff. Cool?

 
Mis Ind:
...So let's not be snarky, or you're gonna get snarked. There's no reason for your average banker or banking candidate to know this stuff. Cool?

thanks for the response. i think that ronald was just trying to make a point. also, i'd like to point out that i am not average in any sense of the word.

that is all.

 

i think that now would be a good time to point out that one shouldn't wear a black suit to work. it looks too formal, i.e. in the formal event sense of the word.

stick with dark grey, dark blue , both with or without pinstripes. conservative.

 

how much money do you guys say is reasonable for an analyst to spent to equip themselves adequately? What does one need to get to do the job?

I personally don't give a shit what i wear as long as it is comfortable, so how much should someone like me blow and how much of what?

As a college athlete, I have always tooled around in gym pants and the such...probably since middle school ...bad habit i guess. I know it this will not continue professionally, but don't personally see a need for custom shirts and underwear. Some of you dudes must blow a hell of a lot of money on clothing. I respect that, but that is just not my thing.

Thanks

 

So-cal, get yourself one truly excellent suit, two white shirts, two solid shirts of conservative color, and two white shirts with stripes (if you like them). Six very good ties, four pairs of nice pants, two pairs of shoes (one with laces, one with the metal bit). Either keep all your leather goods (shoes, belt, watch, and manbag/softside briefcase if you use one) brown, or keep them black. If you like both, make sure you have a full set of both, and never mix the two. Ditto gold and silver fittings on watch, shoes, belt, etc. Ditto shiny/matte finishes on your leather. As you don't want to spend a lot of money, I'd advise matte black leather goods with silver/steel fittings. They look good with everything, even when they get a little scuffed, and don't need constant shining.

You can skimp on everything but the ties, one of the white shirts, and the suit. Let these guys tell you what brand; they probably know better than I do.

 

Mis Ind gave perfect advice on what to get. I would go for seven shirts though and no more than one with stripes. Three white, two light blue, one stiped/white and one pink or dark blue. And get them cleaned somewhere that charges more than $1 a shirt. You'll thank yourself in a year.

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You don't need to spend $200 a shirt. You need to spend about $85 to $150 at the maximum. If you find a good sale, you will be able to get something for $85 that is decent. Of course, as soon as I left the sellside I immediately threw away my $85 on sale shirt away.

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buysideanalyst:
You don't need to spend $200 a shirt. You need to spend about $85 to $150 at the maximum.

Dude. You do not "NEED" to spend $85 dollars on a dress shirt as a 1st year analyst. That is dumb. If you want, I will find you plenty of dress shirts that will work fine right now online.

 
buysideanalyst:
You don't need to spend $200 a shirt. You need to spend about $85 to $150 at the maximum. If you find a good sale, you will be able to get something for $85 that is decent. Of course, as soon as I left the sellside I immediately threw away my $85 on sale shirt away.

What do you mean need to? Who can even tell the difference between a $200 shirt and a $50 shirt?

 

are superiors really concerned that their analysts are wearing expensive clothing? I know one must look professional, have clean ironed shit, polished shoes, but u can get quality, good looking clothing at department stores. I have been going to h/p/y for 2.5 years (mostly oblivious i guess) but i dont even recongize a number of these brand you are talking of. If it was necessary to get these marked-up items, then i guess it is necessary, but is it? It is not like macy's and bloomingdales sells potato sacks with arm and leg holes.

 
zala rules:
buyside, you are insane. this is a 1st year analyst. if you spend $70 on a belt and $120 on SOCKS as an analyst, you are an insecure nerd.

It's hard to get socks for less than $10 or $12 each that don't fall apart in a year. I buy socks for roughly $12 at Bannana Republic, not exactly high street. Maybe you don't need 10 pairs, but at least seven.

Nice dress socks are $25 to $35 per pair.

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buysideanalyst:

Nice dress socks are $25 to $35 per pair.

I know, but those are for people with money. As an analyst, if you end up with a couple holes in the heels of your socks, you'll probably be ok, because you're also living in a tiny closet of an apartment and borrowing money from mom and dad.

Also, you do NOT need a new "wallet and watch" etc. That stuff is for nouveau riche asians. If you're worried about people inspecting your watch, get a cheap leather-band watch from wal-mart, or else don't wear one. Your cell phone will tell you what time it is.

 

Okay, this is a common male perspective on clothes. But he seems curious about the differences, so let's talk about it. I'll just talk about shirts; suits are too complex for me to get into.

So. Cheap shirts look cheap for two reasons:
-- Cheap fabric -- Cheap construction

Fabric: The shoulder portion is normally doubled up until the yoke, and the fabric must be of a high enough thread count so that there isn't a serious visible difference between the two-layer part of the shirt and the one-layer. There should be a slight blouson above the cuffs, and the fabric should be of sufficient quality and weight to not dimple or crepe up in the tucks of the blouson.

Construction: The yoke construction of a shirt is actually kind of complex and requires lots of attention by the person stitching it, which isn't given if the person works in a cheap sweatshop. If there's a pattern, the pattern must pair up exactly across cuts (which usually creates an attractive chevron if well done). Additionally, there should be no puckering or pulling of the fabric across the seam, which is caused by improper thread tension on poorly-maintained sewing machines, inattention on the part of the machine operator, and low-quality poly-blend thread that shrinks at a different rate than the shirt fabric. Finally, there should be a box pleat in the rear center of the yoke, and there isn't always one on cheap shirts. If there is, it's sometimes too short (to skimp on fabric), off-center, or not sharp enough, because doing it right takes time. In the blouson of the sleeve, there should be multiple small tucks, not one large one.

So yeah, in short: people can and will be able to tell. Sure, you can get a cheap shirt that's well-made, but you'd better have an eagle eye for quality. Most people don't.

 

You'll notice I didn't include wallet and watch money in my build-ups. And what I meant by watch is less than $100.

I'm not advocating that anyone buy $25 pairs of socks. I'm just giving a frame of reference.

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When I was getting banker clothes for my fiance, I was doing it seriously on the cheap (he didn't work in New York and his coworkers were far more clueless). Here's what I got for him. Bear in mind that this far undercuts a real NYC banker wardrobe.

2 suits, one dark charcoal, one light charcoal with conservative pinstripes. Each one cost around $500, and tailoring cost an extra $200 each because he's 5'5" with broad shoulders and a narrow waist and we wanted to emphasize that line (when you're 5'5", you definitely want to play up your best features).

Belt was $50, rock bottom price, good top-grain matte black leather with brushed steel fittings.

Shoes were $160, not fashionable but not awful.

Four shirts: one pale pewter (edgy because he worked at an edgy place), two white, one pale blue. Each $80, except for one of the whites which was $95.

Four ties, (red, two blue blue, one edgy silver-patterned), around $40 apiece on sale, but still silk and good-looking.

Two extra pairs of suit pants, one to match each suit ($180 apiece).

Ten pairs of socks (yes, you need socks or you will look very Howard Hughes with bare feet in your shoes) at $6 apiece. Yes, they were cheap, and yes they all fell apart within six months, leaving little black fuzzballs all over the laundry which I ended up picking out myself. I wish I'd bought the $12 socks.

One softside briefcase, cheap, not really good looking, $150.

Five undershirts, $15 apiece. Undershirts keep you fresher and help protect your shirt and suit from your body oils.

He's still wearing his boxers from high school, so we were good to go on those.

That's $2710 for a wardrobe that absolutely wouldn't pass muster in New York. Crappy briefcase, cheap fused-construction suits, shoes made from poor leather, etc. This is just a guideline to help you guys make your decisions.

 

A friend at a BB that is an acting VP (officially an Assoc.) in Japan has easily spent $40,000 on his clothes in about 3 years. Started as a 2nd year analyst in the U.S. Had no prior knowledge of Japanese.

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Heh, wouldn't that be great? You just walk up, write them a check, and get your banker kit. I wish it were that easy, trust me.

No, unfortunately it is a significant time and money sink. Your tastes and your wallet as well as your self-esteem will be challenged and perhaps overwhelmed. You'll have to work hard in order to not get screwed. You may not emerge the same person. You may even find yourself wanting to just throw it all away and work the frying vat at McD's.

And this is just for the guys. Imagine what it must be like for the girls who don't have strict cookie cutters to follow. It's enough to make you want to wear a burqa.

 
Mis Ind:
Heh, wouldn't that be great? You just walk up, write them a check, and get your banker kit. I wish it were that easy, trust me.

No, unfortunately it is a significant time and money sink. Your tastes and your wallet as well as your self-esteem will be challenged and perhaps overwhelmed. You'll have to work hard in order to not get screwed. You may not emerge the same person. You may even find yourself wanting to just throw it all away and work the frying vat at McD's.

Whoa nelly. It is not THAT hard. We are talking about a 1st year analyst here. First year analysts wear pretty normal clothes, even at Morgan Stanley.

 

You do not need to spend that type of money on clothing.

I get by with 2 nice ($85) shirts and 1 nice suit. Every other shirt I wear is around $35 bucks.

I do agree with these other guys on shoes. Don't skimp out on shoes--that would be a huge mistake. Save your money on shirts and get a nice shoe (I would say minimum $150).

Nobody in the office really cares what you wear on a day-to-day basis. Just make sure you have something appropriate (read: nicer) for your client meetings. I wouldn't spend all that money on expensive clothing--cause no one really cares.

 

I didn't know you worked at MS, Zala. And yes, if you've never bought a working wardrobe for yourself, it can be fraught with a whole bunch of difficulties. It's a moment of self-definition which many people aren't ready for.

 

Listen. There are a million different ways to get good quality clothing on the cheap.

Before I begin, let me just say Armani, Gucci etc are really not that great of quality. They are a step up from the stuff you may buy at macy's but in terms of price they are about 400% over priced.

I first suggest going to the barney's outlet or the off saks fith avenue outlet. There is one outside of nyc and there is one 20min from boston. These places have a great selection of ridiculously marked down clothing. I was in saks outlet two weeks ago, picked up a Dunhill suit, beautiful grey suit, three button, flat front modern suit. Very very nice. I had seen it in their store for $1500, it was priced at Saks outlet for $450 because it was "last season" (which is last spring for winter 2006/7). There are great deals to be found at those outlet stores.

Also ties/belts: go to the barney’s outlet. Great prices on stuff they just moved off the shelves of their main retail stores.

In addition, there are numerous services that come to many major cities from India, Bangladesh and China that will measure ppl up and make them really great quality shirts/suits. Some times you can get material straight from the same mills as Canali, RLPL and Scabal (this is the good stuff folks, not fucking armani cheap ass shit). Just to give you the FYI, you know how Daniel Craig was so well dressed in the recent bond movie? He was fully outfitted in cashmere suits from Scabal. Find a service that will measure you, make the stuff to your specifications, and ask them about their operation.

As for shoes:

I am a firm believer in great shoes. That is why I will never buy Gucci, Prada or Ferragamo shoes. They are truely shit, and to be honest everyone is wearing them (they are trust me, just look around nyc). Find something unique and made to last. A great place to start looking for good shoes are the, great and little known out of Europe, Italian shoe makers. There is just no substitution for great Italian shoes. Forget your Prada, Johnson and Murphy crap, look into these shoes. Some brands that are good to know: Martegani, Harris, Borgioli, Gravati, Pertini. Check them out. They are fashionable, made to last and really stand out from the crowd. Don’t be a follower, don’t buy Gucci or Prada. Great website: http://www.francos.com .

All these things can be had for great prices. I wouldn’t spend more than $90 on a shirt (and we are talking about a well made, well constructed, Italian cotton shirts – you just need to know where to look to find them), no more than $175 on a pair of pants (we are talking RLPL quality and around there, I’d spent about $300 for scabal, it’s the best), socks? Pick up some cheap ones at macy’s (socks end up wearing away, becoming nasty after a year anyway! Spending $25 on socks is the same as spending $70 on a pair of boxers, you do it if you have the money), as for shoes, well I would spend a little more $300-450. Chances are you will have only two pairs (dark brown and black), you wear them every other day (assuming rotating your shoes – which you should to keep the leather from cracking/becoming misshapen) and you will be running around the office/standing/running to presentations or the printer all the time. I really feel you shouldn’t skimp on shoes. I skimped last summer, bought some POS from Florsheim and ended up paying the price (i.e. blisters, cramped feet, no arch support and they ended up falling apart from the constant use - heel came right off). Buy a truly great pair of shoes and with proper care they will last 7-10 years if you want.

Anyway, that is my two cents. I’ll leave you with what my MD said to me on my last day during the summer. Don’t be one of those analyst that spend $200 on a shirt, it’s not worth it right now. Save your money for your MBA.

 
Jaygatsby28:
I’ll leave you with what my MD said to me on my last day during the summer. Don’t be one of those analyst that spend $200 on a shirt, it’s not worth it right now. Save your money for your MBA.

This is gold.

That must have been a proper old school MD. Every analyst should read that quote and think about how it relates to the next 2-3 years (not just about clothes but the rest of their lifestyle as well).

 

Mis Ind, The fact that you knew what I was talking about in my last post in regards to formal/semi-formal was a breath of fresh air. You are really something else. Also, I understand that Brooks is not an equal of JPress. JPress is one of my favorite stores in the world, and I think any analyst would be fine with shirts and ties from them. I also think you can find great deals on shirts online. Check out T.M. Lewin, they are always running specials. Finally, what is everyone's opinion about Classic Gucci horsebit loafers?

 

I'm surprised there hasn't been many posts from frat guys here.

Gucci, Armani, Ferragamo, or any other guido designer is the anti-thesis of fratty.

Stick to J.Press and higher end Brooks Brothers like Ronald R was saying and you will not go wrong among the fratty circles. Let the nouveau riche do what they will. Wear what you and your ancestors have been wearing for generations.

 

I agree with you completely, Patek. However, a pair of classic Gucci horse bit loafers are definitely part of the fratty wardrobe. They can keep the rest of the guido stuff, though.

 

what's so bad about italian shirts? other than the fact that many of them have the designer name or logo drawn over the entire shirt? That would be the next big thing. :)

 

Here are some clothes I feel are a decent value for the quality. Others may disagree.

Shirts: Hugo Boss (narrow through the body), Charles Tyrwhitt (wide body).

Shoes: Johnston and Murphy

Not saying these are the best quality available, but these shops have decent stuff for the money.

 
Rickets:
Here are some clothes I feel are a decent value for the quality. Others may disagree.

Shirts: Hugo Boss (narrow through the body), Charles Tyrwhitt (wide body).

Shoes: Johnston and Murphy

Not saying these are the best quality available, but these shops have decent stuff for the money.

hugo boss? maybe in another life when my name is anthony guidoini and i own 5 pizzerias.

stick to j.press and brooks, seriously. as for shoes, you can't go wrong with allen-edmonds for mass market, and if you can afford it, go for churches or something custom made from london.

english clothing = fratty. italian designer wear = not at all.

 

For shoes I would recommend getting a pair of Bally's. They look sharp and their really comfortable to walk around in. You could get a pair for $300 which I don't think it is unreasonable considering im still wearing my pair after two years and they still look nice. So the durability and quality is excellent.

Also about the socks you can get a $6 pair that will last for 6 months or a $12 that will last a year. All the same in the end.

 

This is such a fucking joke. I have a 50 chest and a 34 wast so off the rack doesn't fit. For suits go go bespoke, shirts rank as follows, 1. Turnbull and Asser 2. Hilditch and Key, New and Lingwood, Harvie and Hudson, Dege and Skinner, or any Jermyn St. maker 4. Charvet, Brioni 5. Burberry, RLPL and shoes go, 1. John Lobb 2. Edward Green 3. Crockett and Jones, Church's 4. Ferragamo

 

i think for the most part people are showing off in this thread, trying to show that they know the names of various high-end designers. obviously none of it is necessary. as long as you look professional, nothing else matters. remember that you are actually going to have to do work- you're not a model. so put more emphasis on that than what designer you're wearing. most of the carpets in investment banks are not red.

 
jonnybravo22:
i think for the most part people are showing off in this thread, trying to show that they know the names of various high-end designers. obviously none of it is necessary. as long as you look professional, nothing else matters. remember that you are actually going to have to do work- you're not a model. so put more emphasis on that than what designer you're wearing. most of the carpets in investment banks are not red.

Exactly. Which is why I will say again that a JPress, Brooks, and Ralph Lauren wardrobe will be more than sufficient for an analyst trying to look professional. And, in many cases, the analyst dressed in conservative clothes from the designers I just mentioned will look much more professional than the analyst standing next to him in the guido gear.

 

these clothes are, however, luxury items that many of your colleagues will splurge on. it's like a hobby, some people follow basketball some people nitpick about designers.

 

Have to admit, I just don't have the expertise with men's clothes. I've seen some Brooks Brothers stuff that looks like absolute crap, but Ronald, you seem to have extensive experience with the brand. Since there are multiple lines with different sources sold at Brooks Brothers, perhaps the best rule is to cultivate an eye for high-quality construction and let your taste be your guide. And they do have conservative looks; I will grant you that.

I do have a personal beef with Brooks Brothers, though. Before I worked in New York, I went in to a BB store to buy a suit and have some tailoring done. Found an acceptable suit (for non-NYC), no problem. Then I explain the tailoring issue. I get every suit I wear extensively tailored because all my suits should nip deeply in at the waist, 1940's-style, and flare at the hip. It takes two rows of darts that have to be done separately to the jacket and to the lining and usually costs at least $200 a jacket for that alone. And the guy refuses to do it for any price. He says, "We can take it in by two inches. That's all we do here." I explain that their off-the-rack women's suits don't have much built-in shape, that their job is to tailor women's suits for women's figures, and that my figure needs a more pronounced hourglass look or the whole damn thing just hangs like a potato sack. He says, and I quote, "That's not my problem."

I've since found that other women have had similar experiences, as BB seems to be aimed far more towards men than towards women. They just don't seem to care about taking care of female customers.

So I tend to dislike Brooks Brothers no matter what.

 
Mis Ind:
Have to admit, I just don't have the expertise with men's clothes. I've seen some Brooks Brothers stuff that looks like absolute crap, but Ronald, you seem to have extensive experience with the brand. Since there are multiple lines with different sources sold at Brooks Brothers, perhaps the best rule is to cultivate an eye for high-quality construction and let your taste be your guide. And they do have conservative looks; I will grant you that.

I do have a personal beef with Brooks Brothers, though. Before I worked in New York, I went in to a BB store to buy a suit and have some tailoring done. Found an acceptable suit (for non-NYC), no problem. Then I explain the tailoring issue. I get every suit I wear extensively tailored because all my suits should nip deeply in at the waist, 1940's-style, and flare at the hip. It takes two rows of darts that have to be done separately to the jacket and to the lining and usually costs at least $200 a jacket for that alone. And the guy refuses to do it for any price. He says, "We can take it in by two inches. That's all we do here." I explain that their off-the-rack women's suits don't have much built-in shape, that their job is to tailor women's suits for women's figures, and that my figure needs a more pronounced hourglass look or the whole damn thing just hangs like a potato sack. He says, and I quote, "That's not my problem."

I've since found that other women have had similar experiences, as BB seems to be aimed far more towards men than towards women. They just don't seem to care about taking care of female customers.

So I tend to dislike Brooks Brothers no matter what.

They are a traditional gentleman's clothier. Why you would be shopping there, I don't know. I don't know any women in my circles that shop at Brooks.

 

do people care so much about what shirts and shoes to wear. I've met plenty of Associates all way up to MDs in San Fran/Palo Alto and Chicago. None of them could care less about what you wear as long as it's decent. Heck, some of the most seniorMD's I met were wearing sweaters and casual pair of slacks in the office on a Friday. It's different when you're meeting a client, but in the office, who cares. Brooks Brothers and hell Banana Republic will suffice.

 

Some do. SF is pretty laid back. If dress code is business casual, then you really have no worries and it is at most places in SF. Just make sure what you wear is reasonably pressed. If you are an MD you can come in however you want as long as you produce revenue.

As an analyst in a business formal environment, you won't ever have a problem wearing $400-500 suits and $65 shirts. Some people say you can wear a $200 suit and and $35 shirt. This may be true in some places, but my view is that it's worth the extra expense to look more presentable.

Personally, I'm glad I get to wear jeans and t-shirt to work. If I had to wear suits, I wouldn't be happy about having to fork over all that cash either. But that's the business and it's part of the reason a first year associate at an ibank makes close to 2x what I do outside of the fact he works 2x as many hours.

I wouldn't ever tell anyone to go buy $1,500 suits and $250 shirts. If that's your thing, go for it, but it's not neccessary. At the same time I can't honestly tell anyone that no one will notice that they wear $35 shirts. Especially, if like some people I know, they launder those shirts once every three times they wear them. You'll never be called out for it, but it will be noticed. There is a happy medium. Using the example of shirts, unless you find a steal, which happens from time to time, you should pay somewhere between $65 and $85.

Anyway this horse is dead.

---------------- Account Inactive
 

Buyside, kind of like that, but the girls in that image are flat-chested and have narrow shoulders. There's not a huge hip-waist ratio there, so that pattern still has only one row of darts, which you can see bisecting the pockets.

These lines are probably closer to what I'm talking about:

http://www.fashion-era.com/images/1940s_mid/1946tailleur5n6.jpg

Clearly, mine don't look exactly like that; the lapels are wrong and the shoulders are a hair too broad; plus, no woman is shaped like a fashion drawing. But you can see how these accomodate shoulders, breasts, and hips while still nipping in dramatically at the waist. I measure 36-24-37, while a far more normal modern measurement would be 35-27-37, and most women's suits made for that body would actually measure 36-30-37 because there's way too much waist room in today's clothes. Brooks Brothers has an even looser fit, so I'd estimate that the actual inside measurements of that suit I tried on were 36-32-37, which is completely unacceptable... just imagine how those extra eight inches of torso fabric hang off the bosom and shoulders like a big sack. And that's how they expect women shaped like me to dress at work? I don't think so.

 
armchairnabokov:
is a watch a necessary part of the wardrobe or can one get away without it? what kind of watches are appropriate?

only wear one if it is a high quality time piece that you received as a graduation present or something of that nature. or if you inherited a quality time piece from your grandfather, that is acceptable as well. i'm talking patek philippes, vintage rolexes, IWCs, Omega Speedmasters, etc.

anything else shouldn't be worn, just use your cell phone.

if you're looking to buy a new watch, wait until you get to the VP/MD level and purchase a jaeger-lecoultre or patek philippe that you can pass down to your offspring. anything else is going to look corny and look like you are trying too hard. do not be one of those guys with a $1500 tag heuer or omega watch.

i'd say the only other thing you can pull off at the analyst level while looking respectable is a digital timex. those are fairly fratty.

 

I don't have a watch; I use my Blackberry. But that's because I hate having gear strapped to my body. I don't even use the Blackberry holster; I carry that thing either in my hand or in my handbag, and the handbag is always pressed close to my body so I can feel the vibrations if I'm needed.

Can you tell I'm a little psychotic about watching my Blackberry? It's because I once got chewed out for having a 45-minute response time at midnight one night (I was bathing and drying my hair in preparation to go back to work) and my staffer told me that I would need to maintain a flawless 10-minute response time for the rest of my first year, even at 4 AM if necessary. So now I even take the damn thing into the bathroom with me, and at night I stick it in a glass bowl next to my bed so that it makes a hellishly loud noise if it vibrates while I'm sleeping.

So if you maintain that close a relationship to your Blackberry, you probably won't need a watch. Hopefully, most of you guys won't ever be in this situation.

 

TheSquare, I ain't arguing that. ;) Just saying that this is my life.

Other real gems I've gotten:

11 PM email (from someone I hadn't been working closely with for a few days and had no reason to expect anything from that night): "I dropped by your desk but you weren't there. I left some notes on your chair. Come by my office when you get back and let's discuss." (Note: deal wasn't even time-critical and didn't need to be turned that night or even the next day, but due to the email I still had to go back in for an hour.)

10 PM email: "I don't see you at your desk. Have you changed seats or something? Where are you sitting now?" (Well, I'm jolly well sitting at home, since you didn't tell me you'd need me tonight. But great way to be passive-aggressive about my leaving when I'm done with all my assigned work!)

Can I come work for you, TheSquare? I'd literally walk through walls for people who treated me like a real person.

 

so i really shouldn't wear a watch unless it costs six months salary or i got it at wal-mart?

i can't bring myself to wear a timex ironman and i refuse to believe that i have to wait until i'm thirty to start wearing a watch (when i become VP or whatever it might be).

do none of the current male analysts out there wear reasonable watches?

 

You can definitely wear a Rolex DateJust or Submariner, or an Omega.

Don't wear a Tag or a Cartier. They both suck and won't be something you want to hand down to your heirs.

 
Ronald R:
You can definitely wear a Rolex DateJust or Submariner, or an Omega.

Don't wear a Tag or a Cartier. They both suck and won't be something you want to hand down to your heirs.

Okay. I'll budge. You can get a DateJust or an Omega Speedmaster. Personally I think the Submariner and Seamaster are far too overdone and far too flashy but others may disagree.

Definitely stay away from Tag and Cartier, that much I can agree with.

 

A nice modest watch with a leather strap should do you just fine. I have a nice swiss watch, "Mondaine," that cost me about $150. Nothing special but it is classic, simple and gets the job done. For the swiss out there, you will recognize the watch: it's the same as the clocks put in all your train stations.

Here's one to boot: I even got a complement on it from my Assoc. and, might I add he was wearing an inherited Patek Philippe.

You do not need to spend $1,500 right now, wait until you are a Director or a third year assoc to make a splerge like that. In fact, if you wait until then, chances are you can buy a really fine Patek or Bovet and have it forever. However, as pointed out before, if you want to spend the money go ahead. I'm just letting you know that it is not mandatory.

Also, there are some shops around NYC I am sure that sell used fine swiss and french pieces that will be in great condition.

So-Cal: No I do not know of any stores in NYC that sell italian shoes, however, I am absolutly sure there are a dozen or so there. Look it up online. When I get to NYC I will def. make an effort to search out a few. Barney's has some, however they will be overpriced. FYI stay away from Bruno Magli's (it's a cheap italian shoe touted as a great one). Good luck with it, I hope you find something you really like.

BTW my MD was old school DLJ. Great guy.

 

CT is selling their 180's line for $75 - pick up a few of those.

Get a shirt or two from mytailor.com and jantzen. Allow a few weeks for delivery.

Go to Cenutry 21/Filene's Basement/Bloomingdales. Pick up some Canali and Zegna.

There's 4-5 shirts at $50-70 a pop.

 

You guys are preaching the wrong advice here. Go to JCPenney's and buy some Haggar suits (bonus: you don't need coat hangars because they stand up on their own) so that you can put the rest towards a treadmill. You won't have much time to work out so having your bench as your bedside table may motivate.

I don't care if you wear Burberry or Brioni - if you are fat and ugly, you'll just look like a pig in a tuxedo.

 
jkh:
... I don't care if you wear Burberry or Brioni - if you are fat and ugly, you'll just look like a pig in a tuxedo.

Sorry. we're not talking about attracting the opposite sex here. have you seen many MDs? quite a few of them are fat, but they still dress well.

you can have the body of an underwear model, but if you dress like a tool, you will look like a tool.

 

Sorry, I was just trying to add humor to a ridiculous thread.

The point is this: Will people notice if you wear the really nice brands? Some will. Will people notice if you work your ass off and deliver high quality work? All will. Don't lose sight of your position in the larger scheme of things - clothes, while important, are just one small piece of that.

 
patekphilippe:
jtmarlin:
Why do people repeatedly trash Tag Heuer/Omega/Cartier? Would it be inappropriate to wear the one I received as a gift?

if you want to shout out to the world that you have no class, be my guest.

would you really put an omega speedmaster in with that group? (not the james bond watches)

 

Actually, I retract my question. I'll wear my gift regardless of what people think. The world that judges you on what you wear is one of which I wish not to be a part.

I'll let my P&L do the talking.

 
jtmarlin:
Actually, I retract my question. I'll wear my gift regardless of what people think. The world that judges you on what you wear is one of which I wish not to be a part.

I'll let my P&L do the talking.

What is it? An entry-level Tag Heuer?

 

Omega is much better than Cartier. Cartier is jewelry, and total crap, as far as men's watches are concerned.

Tags are just very cheap looking to me. They are nice for a young kid, but I wouldn't want to wear one in my mid to late 20s.

Rolex watches are absolutely not gaudy. I don't recommend wearing a Gold Day-Date when you are young, but you also can't afford one when you are young. A nice Stainless Steel and White Gold DateJust is a perfect watch for a man in his 20's and 30's, alone with a Submariner for nights and weekends. A new example will run you around $5k, but you can buy a pre-owned for $3-4k. The design never changes, so you don't have to worry about a used one going out of style.

 
crazybanana:
What about movado?

I've never enjoyed the style of movado. Also, I don't have much to say for their internals, which is why I'm such a fan of Rolex and other makers that use in house movements.

 

Breitling makes some incredible watches themselves. The Colt or Navitimer are both excellent watches. They will run you somewhere between 3K-5K depending on the model and specifications such as strap, day or date etc...

I'm all about buying the non-name brand, but still elegant and very expensive items (in many cases more expensive than these name brand items).

For example, instead of buying a BMW 7-series to go with a Rolex watch, I would get the Maserati Quattroporte which is marginally more expensive than the BMW. Instead of the Rolex I would have a Breitling which is just as elegant and in many cases is more expensive such as the Breitling for Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon which costs in excess of $220K.

The beauty in doing this is you can easily figure out those who only know name-brand items and subsequently have very little knowledge of other high-end luxury goods. At the same time you'll quickly be able to point out those that have a thorough understanding of luxury goods beyong just the names of Rolex and BMW. This group will appreciate your sense of class an ability to go against the norm while still maintaining quality and also price. It is in this latter group that you get the more sensible wealth versus the name-brand only and less- luxury -good educated affluent individuals who are found in the former group.

 
Roller4Life:
Breitling makes some incredible watches themselves. The Colt or Navitimer are both excellent watches. They will run you somewhere between 3K-5K depending on the model and specifications such as strap, day or date etc...

I'm all about buying the non-name brand, but still elegant and very expensive items (in many cases more expensive than these name brand items).

For example, instead of buying a BMW 7-series to go with a Rolex watch, I would get the Maserati Quattroporte which is marginally more expensive than the BMW. Instead of the Rolex I would have a Breitling which is just as elegant and in many cases is more expensive such as the Breitling for Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon which costs in excess of $220K.

The beauty in doing this is you can easily figure out those who only know name-brand items and subsequently have very little knowledge of other high-end luxury goods. At the same time you'll quickly be able to point out those that have a thorough understanding of luxury goods beyong just the names of Rolex and BMW. This group will appreciate your sense of class an ability to go against the norm while still maintaining quality and also price. It is in this latter group that you get the more sensible wealth versus the name-brand only and less- luxury -good educated affluent individuals who are found in the former group.

Okay first off, I understand the point that you are making. People who go and by Guccissima print loafers, Tag watches, and "BMWs" are spending money for the sake of spending money and do not really know what they are buying. I agree one should be informed of what they own or competitive product offerings, but there are plenty of people who truly enjoy the heritage and passion of BMW. And to correct some of your completely misguided information, Colt Quartz can be bought for a tick over 1K. Most Breitlings fall in the range of 5K before one starts adding gaudy jewels, and completely rare limited production models. I personally LOVE the look of a breitling, I have a small wrist so I wear a hublot, but I'd really love a Rolex Yachtmaster, out of my price range. As far as the Maserati being "marginally more expensive than a BMW", I'd hardly consider a roughly 30-40% premium for a run of the mill quattroporte over a run of the mill 750li "marginal". I understand how you think you have class, but when it comes to ACTUALLY spending $10k on a watch or $100k on a car, you have no idea. People buy what they want. Mind your own fucking business, I am sorry that you are so fucking insecure that you base your self-worth on posessions and judge other people on theirs. Grow up.

 

Well spending a couple grand on a watch to me and most poeple I know is the usual thing to do if you want a nice watch. In the same sense, spending $600 on a pair of Louis Vuitton shoes is definitely in the mix if you need a nice pair of shoes to go with your suit.

For suits I like to go with either Armani, Hugo Boss, Brooks Brothers etc...

For ties you can do Hermes, Ferragamo, Charvet or whatever else floats your boat.

The bottom line is if your going into investment banking and if you reach the higher ranks such as Managing Director or Department Head, do yourself a favor and don't dress like a slob. Do educate yourself about the luxury goods in life and present yourself properly because your presentation in appearance and of material is of uttmost importance at senior levels.

 

What about at the interview level? If I'm trying to get into a bank, how much will they care about what kind of watch, shoes, tie, etc. I have? Will I come off sloppy in a Brooks Brothers suit, Johnston & Murphy shoes, a shirt like Nautica, Polo, etc. from Macy's? Because I'm getting the sense that they judge you just as much on pedigree as they do anything else. I've already got a strike against me coming from a non-target school, a public one at that, so I don't want to make it even worse for myself by appearing unkempt.

 

only spend uber $$ after you have made uber $$. don't spend money you don't have and don't get into debt to live a lifestyle that cannot afford.

be conservative and dress appropriately.

 

if you want a uniform for interviews:

dark grey suit (that fits), light blue or white shirt, burgendy tie.

dark, polished, clean, conservative shoes.

non-flashy watch. to go without a watch is acceptable.

 

Maserati's are gaudy. Same for all Italian cars, Italian clothes, Italian people. Stick to German/British cars and British/Classic American clothes.

BMW 7-Series, Mercedes S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS or Range Rover until you can afford to be chauffered in a Rolls Royce Phantom. If you want a sports car, get a Porsche.

 

Hey blowjob, the BMW 760Li (V12) is actually MORE expensive than the Maserati. Even if I could get the more expensive BMW, I would still get the Maserati. Now, if you get a pretty well equipped 750Li you are looking at $90K. The Quattroporte starts at $103K. This is not a huge difference when comparing cars in that price range.

I have a Breitling Colt, it wasn't a tick over a grand. I paid slightly over $2K for it.

I don't base people on their posessions, I base people on their ability to be different from the norm. I don't believe in following the status-quo and those who I associate with don't go with the flow either.

I respect people who dare to be different and still elegant in what they do.

 
Roller4Life:
Hey blowjob, the BMW 760Li (V12) is actually MORE expensive than the Maserati. Even if I could get the more expensive BMW, I would still get the Maserati. Now, if you get a pretty well equipped 750Li you are looking at $90K. The Quattroporte starts at $103K. This is not a huge difference when comparing cars in that price range.

I have a Breitling Colt, it wasn't a tick over a grand. I paid slightly over $2K for it.

I don't base people on their posessions, I base people on their ability to be different from the norm. I don't believe in following the status-quo and those who I associate with don't go with the flow either.

I respect people who dare to be different and still elegant in what they do.

People's ability to be different? So you are the conformist nonconformist?

Comparing a V12 BMW to a V8 Mas? Wow you are quickly showing your ignorance, not to mention you are comparing the "equipped" price of a BMW to the base price of a Mas. You have no fucking clue what it is like to pay $100K for a car, don't act like you do. If you knew what you were talking about you would know that MOST Maseratis are special ordered and do not come anywhere NEAR that $103 base. Not to mention that $103 base is still a 32% premium over the $78 base of a 750Li. Im comparing like vehicles. The maserati is a step up, it is not "marginally more expensive". Oh and the MSRP on a Colt Quartz, the specific model I referred to, the entry Breitling, is $2k. Nobody pays MSRP for a watch unless they are retarded. If you have a good relationship with a Jeweler you are looking at 30-40% discount to MSRP, if not turn to eBay or Atlantic time where one can easily find a BNIB Colt Quartz for $1,400. I'll give you its a little more than a tick over $1k, but still well within reason of any superior Swiss timepiece.

 

Relinquo you have absolutely no idea what the prices are of luxury cars. Most people don't go all out on the customization of their Maseratis. We aren't talking about Mulliner customizing a $300K Bentley here. I do have a good relationship with a jeweler and get 30% off. I still paid slightly over $2K.

Do you think it makes a difference to me or to any other person that is paying $85K to pay slightly over $100K for a car. Learn how people think before you make such crazy statements.

Understand when people have cash to blow, miniscule amounts of money (relatively speaking) don't become much of an issue.

Learn more about luxury goods you moron and then maybe I'll have a proper discussion with your broke-self.

 

Look I'm not here to argue with you over whether or not someone buying an $85K car can afford a $100K car. I understand there is a price difference, but you have to realize when you drop $85K, to justify spending an additional $15K is not that hard to do. Secondly, I could care less what you wear, drive, like to do etc... I know what I enjoy in terms of clothes, cars, watches and other luxury items. To me it makes perfect to go against the classic Rolex and BMW for the Breitling and Maserati.

I don't appreciate you or anyone else for that matter arguing over whether you think I understand the luxury goods market.

I'm here to learn about investment banking and figure out a way to break into the industry.

End of discussion

 
Roller4Life:
Look I'm not here to argue with you over whether or not someone buying an $85K car can afford a $100K car. I understand there is a price difference, but you have to realize when you drop $85K, to justify spending an additional $15K is not that hard to do. Secondly, I could care less what you wear, drive, like to do etc... I know what I enjoy in terms of clothes, cars, watches and other luxury items. To me it makes perfect to go against the classic Rolex and BMW for the Breitling and Maserati.

I don't appreciate you or anyone else for that matter arguing over whether you think I understand the luxury goods market.

I'm here to learn about investment banking and figure out a way to break into the industry.

End of discussion

i think that you had me confused with Gommini.

 

I hope there aren't any soon-to-be bankers on here taking all of this advice to heart.

NO ONE cares about how expensive your clothes are. I've been in BB banking 3+ years and it is ridiculous to think you need to at a minimum buy $80 shirts and $300 shoes. I actually do these things but it's because I am single and want to look good but have a lot of colleagues who don't give a shit. Brooks Brothers is absolutely fine. Your work product and your abilities as an analyst/associate are 100x more important than if the MD or client thinks your tie is spiffy or not. Do you think MDs and VPs sit around talking about the clothes or watches of the analysts? Give me a break. They only care if the model you put together is right or if you make errors while making text changes, etc...

Save your money, kids.

 

WTF is this: a designer show or an investment banking firm? And people who say that watches that costs well over a thousand dollars (TagHeuer, Omega, etc.) are shit are just retarded. Maybe not all of us have "heirs" to pass us down their PatekPhillipes. I love my Citizen and I sure as hell do wear it to work. And are you going to work or show off your suits? If you wanna spend $200 on a shirt, go ahead, no one is stopping you. Yet I bet you are the one screaming that you are still poor earning $150k a year. And don't stuff down people's throats what they should or shouldn't wear. You like BrooksBrothers, go ahead and wear it. You like more contemporary/european/italian clothes (like me) wear them. The most important thing is that it looks clean, pressed/ironed and presentable. I work at an established hedge fund. Analysts making $500k a year don't wear expensive shit to work. I swear. Polo shirt is the standard with some Dockers pants. And in winter, just some nice shirt and pants, again in which you look presentable and which doesn't necessarily cost $250. And it's just stupid and ridiculous to buy $700 shoes as an incoming analyst when your signing bonus isn't even enough to move in to your apartment. If you wanna buy them, buy them, but don't complain later that you still can't manage financially, even though you make over four times that of an average American.

 
slypko:
WTF is this: a designer show or an investment banking firm? And people who say that watches that costs well over a thousand dollars (TagHeuer, Omega, etc.) are shit are just retarded. Maybe not all of us have "heirs" to pass us down their PatekPhillipes. I love my Citizen and I sure as hell do wear it to work. And are you going to work or show off your suits? If you wanna spend $200 on a shirt, go ahead, no one is stopping you. Yet I bet you are the one screaming that you are still poor earning $150k a year. And don't stuff down people's throats what they should or shouldn't wear. You like BrooksBrothers, go ahead and wear it. You like more contemporary/european/italian clothes (like me) wear them. The most important thing is that it looks clean, pressed/ironed and presentable. I work at an established hedge fund. Analysts making $500k a year don't wear expensive shit to work. I swear. Polo shirt is the standard with some Dockers pants. And in winter, just some nice shirt and pants, again in which you look presentable and which doesn't necessarily cost $250. And it's just stupid and ridiculous to buy $700 shoes as an incoming analyst when your signing bonus isn't even enough to move in to your apartment. If you wanna buy them, buy them, but don't complain later that you still can't manage financially, even though you make over four times that of an average American.

it's called a trust fund.

 
patekphilippe:
slypko:
WTF is this: a designer show or an investment banking firm? And people who say that watches that costs well over a thousand dollars (TagHeuer, Omega, etc.) are shit are just retarded. Maybe not all of us have "heirs" to pass us down their PatekPhillipes. I love my Citizen and I sure as hell do wear it to work. And are you going to work or show off your suits? If you wanna spend $200 on a shirt, go ahead, no one is stopping you. Yet I bet you are the one screaming that you are still poor earning $150k a year. And don't stuff down people's throats what they should or shouldn't wear. You like BrooksBrothers, go ahead and wear it. You like more contemporary/european/italian clothes (like me) wear them. The most important thing is that it looks clean, pressed/ironed and presentable. I work at an established hedge fund. Analysts making $500k a year don't wear expensive shit to work. I swear. Polo shirt is the standard with some Dockers pants. And in winter, just some nice shirt and pants, again in which you look presentable and which doesn't necessarily cost $250. And it's just stupid and ridiculous to buy $700 shoes as an incoming analyst when your signing bonus isn't even enough to move in to your apartment. If you wanna buy them, buy them, but don't complain later that you still can't manage financially, even though you make over four times that of an average American.

it's called a trust fund.

I personally think you are full of shit. Everyone I know with a trust fund could care less about ridiculous names on clothes. You sound like new money to me... I can still smell the drakkar of the early 90s on your mullet. Slypko is making a lot of sense when talking about budgetting. I bet you scrounge to make ends meet with your $3000 suits.

-------------- Either you sling crack rock or you got a wicked jump shot
 

Patek, I liked where you were coming from earlier, but now you have me convinced that you are either full of shit, or total new money.

Wearing your citizen is fine. Wearing your Tag is fine. However, I suggest that if you are about to buy a NEW watch, you go for something that is a better time piece, like an Omega, Rolex or Brietling, as opposed to a Cartier or Tag. I think that you should either spring for the extra cash, or wait a year and buy it when you are making a little more. I'm just proposing that you buy something that you can pass on to the next generation, and that will always be in style and will always work, than something that is more like a piece of jewlery like Cartier, or that isn't as well made, like a Tag.

 
Ronald R:
Patek, I liked where you were coming from earlier, but now you have me convinced that you are either full of shit, or total new money.

Wearing your citizen is fine. Wearing your Tag is fine. However, I suggest that if you are about to buy a NEW watch, you go for something that is a better time piece, like an Omega, Rolex or Brietling, as opposed to a Cartier or Tag. I think that you should either spring for the extra cash, or wait a year and buy it when you are making a little more. I'm just proposing that you buy something that you can pass on to the next generation, and that will always be in style and will always work, than something that is more like a piece of jewlery like Cartier, or that isn't as well made, like a Tag.

It depends what you consider new money. My great grandfather made most of my family's fortune. For most people, yes, I would be considered new money.

 

My $.02 from a summer's internship at a BB is that there are just three rules.

  1. Wear a tie and a suit.
  2. Avoid polyester if at all possible.
  3. Don't wear red braces.

Personally, I wear Savoy Taylors Guild, De Havilard, Curtis & Hawes and Paul Frederick shirts- none of which cost more than $40-50 and a Moss Bross suit.

 

$40 Hermes ties on Ebay: http://clothing.search.ebay.com/hermes_Mens-Accessories_W0QQsacatZ4250

Some are gently used, but will anyone notice the difference?

Again, don't wear it to work if you're a summer intern. Your goal is to get the job, not to wear flashy clothing. Tasso-Elba or Joseph Abboud is the very fanciest you want to get. My roommate got away with Joseph A. Bank all summer long, and I got away with suits bought at JC Penney (100% Wool).

 
MidwesternBumpkin:
$40 Hermes ties on Ebay: http://clothing.search.ebay.com/hermes_Mens-Accessories_W0QQsacatZ4250

Some are gently used, but will anyone notice the difference?

Again, don't wear it to work if you're a summer intern. Your goal is to get the job, not to wear flashy clothing. Tasso-Elba or Joseph Abboud is the very fanciest you want to get. My roommate got away with Joseph A. Bank all summer long, and I got away with suits bought at JC Penney (100% Wool).

Used ties? You have to be kidding me.

Did you work at a bank in the Midwest? Things are different over there.

 

If you live in NYC go to Woodbury Commons Outlets. They have like, EVERYTHING, so you might want to drive up there at 10AM and not come home until 8PM.

"We are lawyers! We sue people! Occasionally, we get aggressive and garnish wages, but WE DO NOT ABDUCT!" -Boston Legal-
 

can women wear suits of colours other than black/navy/grey? (i'm thinking mostly of white & beige - for summer, mostly.) are short-sleeve blouses acceptable? how about 3/4 length capris/dress pants for fridays?

 
trailmix8:
Don't go with dark blue stripe, its a good suit, but for interview you want to be more plain. No red or british pink either.

I thought any dark charcoal or navy, solid or subtle striped suit is fine. As long as it's not flashy. I can't imagine your success was because of your wso/">charcoal suit. You would have gotten the same results with a nice navy striped suit as well. i.e. http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=200802&CategoryID=2…

 

No one wears suits anymore... Where's the business attire? I have only seen casual attire at CS, JPM, GS, etc. I know that former Lehman Brothers used to have full business attire throughout the comapny. And other than top management roles, does anyone know of any IB or HF that has full business attire?

 


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