Associate Consultant Attire in NYC

I have read a few threads discussing the standard work attire in MBB and how it is generally pretty business casual, but many of them caveat their answers with "if you're not in the NYC office." Well, I will be in the NYC office for one of the MBB firms and I was wondering 1). What shoes do people recommend? Have seen recommendations for AE Park Aves and the sort, but these seem pretty formal. 2). Given NYC is cold af this time of year, should I invest in a jacket for warmth (sacrificing some style) or do you think I should choose something more formal? Any recs if so? 3). For pants, I really like the LuLu Commission pants, but should I invest in something a bit more formal for everyday wear?

I know things are very project/group dependent, but I would rather be able to pick up some of the essentials before I start so that I'm not scrambling. Thanks in advance!!

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  1. Oxford shoes like the Park Aves would be great -- but they're very expensive and you don't need shoes that are that nice (unless you want to take care of them they'll get torn up by the salt). You can also do other leather dress shoes like loafers. It's good to start with a formal shoes and adjust based on what others are wearing, e.g. sometimes non-dress shoes like Allbirds can be appropriate (depending on your office)
  2. Yes, you should buy a jacket for when it's cold. I don't see why you're suggesting a jacket sacrifices style though - there are plenty of formal and stylish jackets. A lot of people wear peacoats or overcoats. Vests are also common if it isn't too cold (vests are also great because then you don't need to iron your shirts as much lol)
  3. I haven't personally worn Lulu's pants but I know lots of folks who do. Googling the Commission pants they look fine

Also make sure you have a suit -- may need to wear depending on your client (if you end up at suit-heavy clients you'll probably want to pick up a second and/or some extra pants)

 

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