No Belt?
Is it ok to not wear a belt with a suit on Wall Street? Just curious because I stopped wearing belts to parties. I like the look, but was just wondering how it looks for like an interview, etc.
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just wear a belt is it that big of a deal?
Well I would imagine most interviewers would see it as you forgot to put on a belt. Honestly unless you are wearing a VERY slim fit shirt/pants/jacket and a skinny tie (which I don't think would look appropriate in IB atleast for interviews) it just looks off with your shirt tucked in.
A relevant quote: "you walk into a room holding a grenade and your best case scenario is walking back out still holding that grenade, worst case scenario the grenade explodes blowing you into little bloody pieces. Moral of the story: don't make bets with no upside."- Dean Carney
Basically you have nothing to gain by not wearing a belt to interviews.
Little long for a belt question but I was bored after my fantasy draft and I really like that quote.
Please tell me you got in b/c of the ADA...
I think if its bespoke or very tailored you could pull it off. I don't look at people's belts when I first see them. Watches, ties, the suit are more noticeable IMHO. But then again I am in college, maybe professional banksters have like a belt-radar.
As we used to say in more civilized times, belts are for those whose tailor is not skilled ;)
It has been quite disheartening for the more classical minded of us to see the disappearance of elegance in the last bastion of business wear. Now people wear belts and loafers, and three button suits with five buttons on the cuff, and even pinned collars (a very American horror if there ever was one). Some even wear shirts of a colour other than white or light blue. Shocking.
Here's some advice for your first day: http://www.englishcut.com/2005/07/28/what-if-you-only-have-200/
Disclaimer: I go to work in jeans. Haven't descended to the polo shirt yet though...
You go to parties in shirt/slacks?
Belts are worn in business as part of the uniform. In style, wearing belt breaks up the natural line of your suit and is a horror. If you have bespoke or MTM, your trousers shouldn't need one and will frequently omit the loops altogether. MTM will typically have the side buckle or 'Daks tops' but bespoke sometimes goes as far to omit even those.
You should wear a belt. It's not supposed to hold up your pants but a suit is incomplete without one.
Wear one.
Wear one, but if you forget or insist on being a douche bag it's not like anyone will call you out unless they stare at your crotch the whole interview which also begs the question of whether you want to be in the office with the crotch-starer for 100 hours a week.
Just wear a fucking belt.
take your belt, give it to a friend, and have him smack some sense into you with it. then just wear it. if you are going to do something (like work on Wall Street), do it right. so wear a belt with a good fitting suit. not wearing a belt says "I dont want to fit in with this culture", and screams that you aren't an appropriate candidate to be hired.
I have suits with side adjusters, which is classic Italian. I would wear a belt until you stop giving a fuck and when that happens wear what you want. People in finance break balls, break them back and you will be fine.
FYI - if you have to ask an internet forum if it is cool to do something, you can't pull it off and should not do it. When you get ragged on and picked on we aren't going to be there to help you. Telling your friends that WSO said it is cool isn't going to help either.
Lol thanks for all the comments/advice guys. I guess I'll wear a belt
wear a belt - please
Why risk it? Wear the belt mang.
sometimes i just feather a peice of yarn through my belt loops and roll out that way
Whenever I see people with no belt on my first thought is whether it was on purpose or they forgot it....
Wearing pants without a belt makes you look like you are 2 years old. I never think it looks good, and always think it looks silly.
Cough up the money and get yourself a belt man
Suit without belt? (Originally Posted: 12/20/2015)
Pretty new at this whole suit thing. Just bought one online last night that I plan to have tailored, and took another look at it today to realize it doesn't have belt loops (I was drinking). It seemed like a steal at the time and there was only one left in my size so I pulled the trigger. Is it weird to go beltless? Also, I know the contrast collar shirt is a no go, but generally speaking would the rest of this look (light blue shirt, brown shoes, and that tie be okay)?
http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=69014716&cp=1760…
They're most likely set up for suspenders (britches outside of the US). Check to see if there are two sets of buttons on the sides of the front and another set in the middle of the back of the pants. A tailor can put belt loops on. Don't wear suspenders. Some younger people can pull off suspenders but if you're still a noob to suits you can't, no offense. And you should wear a belt or suspenders so don't go with nothing.
Some people have something against striped college ties. I don't but I'm sure someone could critique it. I'm not a fan of tassled loafers for anyone under 50 but to each his own. The socks, kind of like suspenders, are probably a bit advanced if you're new to suits.
I had heard on here anyone wearing suspenders that isn't at least a vp will get shit on. Personally think it's just too old school for anyone under 35. Doesn't look like his pants need a belt?
Thanks, this is hugely helpful in regard to the belt loops. Didn't even cross my mind that I could have them put on. I do like the tie so I grabbed it, but I can understand that it's probably better for social occasions rather than interviewing - will have to pick up something more reserved for that purpose. Any advice on a tie that might work here would be great. As for the shoes and socks I should have clarified that I just meant brown shoes in general - will likely go with something like a brown oxford and a solid dark sock. I'd like something in the $200-400 range that doesn't have the plastic like feel/look that many cheaper shoes have.
You don't have to wear a belt.
Could have side tabs too. Just got a suit made with side tabs so no belt loops and I will not be wearing suspenders with them.
Just took at look at the link to make sure, and the pants do have side tabs. rgwen you can see them clearly in the last photo on the website. Basically, pants with side tabs are designed with the assumption that you have them tailored to fit your waist properly. The tabs are there (mostly) for show, but can provide slight adjustments as necessary. I didn't know regular polo suits came with side tabs, but I guess you learn something new everyday (their Black Label suits almost exclusively are made with side tabs).
It's a personal preference but I'm not a fan of the no-belt look and I don't mean to start a big controversy, nor do I mean to offend you side tab wearers. I feel like it creates a separation and distinct line between shirt and trousers and when you're wearing a suit jacket the line is more obvious because the jacket and trousers are the same color. We men also get so few unnecessary accessories-watch, cufflinks and belt-that we might as well wear them. Because you have to wear shoes and socks they're just a choice.
But it may be a new generation thing. Perhaps I am too old to comment and have actual fashion sense. But a belt is also a fine and necessary tool when you need to 1) belt whip your child, 2) slide down a power/zip line to escape a pursuer, or 3) when you are enjoying relations with a kinky woman who likes to be belt whipped. Can you do any of those with your side tabs?
Not to sound like a yes-man because I know I said above that I am okay with the side tabs, but I definitely would prefer belt loops given the option. I have actually always felt the belt is an important accessory for similar reasons that you note, though my experience has of course been mostly through observing casual wear. If I can have these pants altered for loops at a reasonable cost I certainly will. I would imagine it would still be a pretty good deal considering it was marked down $600.
Oh my old friend, notthehospitalER does any of it really matter? Fuck belts. Are you working FT in Sydney? How's it going?
Yes, great, living the dream
imo, a suit should not be worn without either a belt or suspenders and I don't think you should wear suspenders unless you're yoked ... or obese I guess.
Well in that case, I guess suspenders might be an option as well.
You're a goon if you don't wear a belt with a suit.
I don't like that suit, shirt, tie or shoes, but I dont think theres anything wrong with not wearing a belt.
Jeez, well I am glad I am not christmas shopping for you.
The suit makers on Savile Row request you don't wear a belt. They say a great suit that fits you correctly doesn't need one...
I wear bracers or no belt all the damn time, you conformists dicks. Seriously the ladies love bracers. But then again I wear custom made jeans.... so yea.
No belt loops? (Originally Posted: 12/24/2006)
So I went shopping for a suit yesterday, and I found a badass polo suit on sale marked down from 1600 to 800 the only thing that really bothered me was the fact that the pants don't have any belt loops. There are tabs on the side of the pants that adjust the waist, has anyone ever seen pants like this before? I don't want to stick out by any means. Thoughts?
why is everyone on this forum so obsessed with appearances? You didn't even start yet, and you are already worried about what your boss might say about your pants. As long as you don't look like a bum most people shouldn't care.
Will they notice the lack of loops? Maybe will they think about it for more than a second? I sincerly doubt it.
And sticking out is actually a good thing, separates you from the pack. Think about school, who is the teacher more likely to give a break to, someone who he knows personally and knows he is paying attention in class, or someone he only knows by the id number.
Disclaimer: The post above has been made by someone who is not currently employed in IBD, and has not had an interview yet...
I haven't started yet, but I know a lot of people in the field. Honestly, yes, standing out can be good, but not by your clothing. If you want to stand out, be the guy who stands out because he does exceptionally good work, stays late every night, or is always available. People make judgements all day long no matter the environment.
As for the pants, I think I know the kind you are talking about. They are professional pants so I wouldn't be too worried. As an analyst, I'd personally try to avoid making a fashion statement.
This is one of the times you are way off base. Show up with a suit with no belt loops and also no belt and you will look like an idiot.
Don't buy it. I've never heard of such a thing or seen it and I'm guessing it doesn't look right.
Sorry to cut into you like that Aspringmonkey, but appearances are completely important. There is an analyst female I work with that dresses like an idiot and I will not go to her for important work. I don't want to bring her into a meeting because it reflects on me. It's a hard fact of life.
That said, you guys don't need to go out and buy all bespoke as 1st years.... Spend $300 - $600 on your suits and you'll be fine. Don't spend too much or too little.
yes appearances are important...I didn't say go in with a tshirt and some jeans. But like you said you don't need to be a 100% carbon copy of an associate to survive.
You don't need to spend thousands on dozens of suits, and a top of the line watch, etc.
Disclaimer: The post above has been made by someone who is not currently employed in IBD, and has not had an interview yet...
but you really shouldnt make comments like that when you dont work in IB. you are making assumptions which could be completely inaccurate.
ideally, you want to blend in with the style of the others you work with. do not try to overdress them but do not come in looking like shit. i personally would not come in with a suit without belt loops. dont give people a reason to criticize your fashion and remember you for the wrong reason
ps i worked at a BB this summer so this is from experience.
I love guys like you..."oh you are not in IB, so you can't have any opinions of your own on any subject." Fuck you...how is that for an opinion?
Oh...so you have to work in IB to have common sense? You have to work in IB to be able to know that very few people would actually care about someone's fashion sense to the degree you are suggesting?
Ok you worked at a BB over the summer...answer this...did you at any time during your 10 week stint ever heard of someone being disciplined for their appearance(when they were dressed professionally).
I'm going to go ahead and guess no, because a suit is still a suit, and will make you look professional as long as it fits and is clean.
You know the phrase...don't put pussy on the pedestal. I'm going to coin a new one, don't put ibankers on the pedestal. There are nothing special, they are regular guys like you or I, the only difference is that they are older and have more experience.
You are making out ibankers to be the most shallow people on the planet.
Disclaimer: The post above has been made by someone who is not currently employed in IBD, and has not had an interview yet...
The punishment wouldn't come from disciplinary action taken against someone. The punishment would be diminished respect for the person who is "Different." This is a fact of life, and it doesn't apply to just IBankers.
Also, people have a way of compounding negativity. If you think someone is a tool, everything they do is going to be retarded. If someone is a hero, you glorify the same actions.
I don't know about you, but when I talk to a person I look them in the eye, not at their pants/crotch area.
But I see what you are saying, if someone doesn't have those loops they most likely aren't wearing a belt...and that gets noticed, and gets categorized as weird
Disclaimer: The post above has been made by someone who is not currently employed in IBD, and has not had an interview yet...
Update: Went to Burberry and got a hell of a deal on two great looking suits (with belt loops). If anyone in a big city is in need of some new threads, you should check out Burberry. Also, Saks and other department stores are having huge sales.
The suit pants should have button tabs inside the waist to hang braces (suspenders) from.
No one will think any less of you for spending $500 or maybe a little less, if you get a deal, on a suit. But, yes you should spend that much.
There are some people that buy nicer clothes for the same reason some people buy nice cars, drink fine wine, collect art, etc and that is because they enjoy it. But it's not by any means mandatory.
And don't get a suit without belt loops.
This belt loop business is blown way out of proportion. Seen guys with them and without. Mainly with them of course, but those who had none were definitely not looked down on (one in particular I can think of actually had a recognised dress sense). At the end of the day if the way you dress doesn't show disrespect, what affects people's perseptions is your output.
Belt loops are hardly necessary. Paul Stuart's suits, which are banker classics, rarely have belt loops unless one asks for them. I prefer them for fit, but if you can pull it off, the no belt loops look is very classy.
Hmm, maybe I should expand my horizons.
Why are people obsessed with belts? (Originally Posted: 05/24/2012)
Srsly? If your pants fit, why wear a belt? It serves no purpose other than to break up your silhouette (assuming you have a good silhouette)...
There's nothing wrong with not wearing a belt; if you decide not to, however, you should be wearing pants without belt loops.
Also, this look really only works with a suit. It will never fly if you're doing business casual.
It's one of the few ways men can accessorize (belt, watch, cuff links), so why not.
Obsess - preoccupy or fill the mind of (someone) continually, intrusively, and to a troubling extent
I don't think anyone is obsessed with belts. It simply looks better to wear one.
This
Agree. Its more traditional and classy looking IMO.
It looks better to wear one. Especially when they match your shoes. Black belt --> black shoes. Brown belt --> brown shoes. Just make sure they are the same shade of brown.
You are so wise
I agree with OP not wearing a belt with a suit can look really good, just check GQ to see examples. However, I prefer to wear a belt usually just because I like to have the extra security even though I have a good silhouette.
Not wearing a belt in high school would land a student in detention so I guess you could say I've been trained to wear belts if my pants have belt loops. I got a little creative so ribbon and needlepoint belts became a big part of my wardrobe. It's not all about boring leather.
i need to have something to beat my hookers with if they get out of line.
^ SB for you.
I can't find pants that fit
stop asking questions. just get in line, and do as you're told
On a tailored suit a belt is not needed, it should be altered to fit you as perfectly as possible. No matter how much you spend on a suit if it is not properly fitted you will look like a schlep. Same thing for guys who wear dress shirts that are too big, you will look sloppy, if your clothes don’t fit you will look like an oaf. However for more casual looks unless you want to get every pair of slacks you own altered you need a belt, since very few people are an exact size and there are variations between different designers, fabrics and in the case of low end clothing even between colors. Fashion wise I prefer the look of a belt on a suit. I am not a fan of some of the modern looks especially the very slim lines that are inspired by European fashions. I don’t need to wear pants that make me look like I am smuggling plums in my crotch. My least favorite is the 3rd side pocket on a jacket. From a marketing standpoint it is brilliant for sure (much like the heels that are red on bottom), but much like nipples on a man, outside pockets on a suit jacket are superfluous a 3rd one is like a man with a 3rd nipple.
Some people are ridiculous with belts. I know this one guy who wears both belts and suspenders! They guy must of had a traumatic pantsing incident growing up.
I don't know, I kind of want an enhanced action zone with my sansabelts.
http://consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/ku-xlarge.jpg
People who are against cuffs and belts on pants... (Originally Posted: 05/05/2014)
Never really understood this. Some people are really adamant about how nobody should have cuffs on pants and others think that only the "finest" suits have no belt loops.
I really find suits with no cuffs or side tabs to look overly modern. IMO a traditional and conservative suit has a small cuff and always should have a belt. Many major ceo's (including many ones of investment banks), presidents, etc. have worn cuffs and belts.
Then again, I'm into the traditional conservative look. I don't wear vests, the hanky in my pocket, the tie clip, etc. My suits are nicely done in my waist, but aren't these somewhat obnoxious slim-fits.
What do you guys think of these features on suit pants?
Belts are a must for me, but I really don't care about cuffs.
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