Is Wearing Fur Still Acceptable in Finance?
With DEI and political correctness becoming more important in the industry, I’m curious, how acceptable is wearing fur in a professional setting?
Would a fur-trimmed Canada Goose jacket be fine, but a full mink coat be pushing it? What about mink fur gloves or a European brown bear fur hat?
If it’s considered unacceptable, at what level does it become more acceptable, Intern, Analyst, Associate, VP? Would love to hear people’s thoughts on where the line is drawn.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, the acceptability of wearing fur in finance largely depends on the context, location, and the specific firm's culture. While there isn't a direct discussion on fur in the provided dataset, here are some insights that can help guide your decision:
Professionalism and Perception: In finance, appearance plays a significant role in how you're perceived. Overly extravagant or polarizing fashion choices, such as a full mink coat or a European brown bear fur hat, might draw unnecessary attention and could be seen as out of touch or excessive, especially at junior levels like Intern or Analyst. Subtle fur trims, like those on a Canada Goose jacket, are generally more acceptable as they are less ostentatious.
Cultural Sensitivity: With DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and political correctness becoming more prominent, wearing fur could be controversial. Some colleagues or clients might view it as unethical or insensitive, particularly in regions or firms with strong environmental or animal rights values.
Hierarchy and Influence: Seniority can sometimes afford more leeway in personal style. A VP or MD might get away with bolder fashion choices due to their established reputation, but even then, discretion is key. For junior roles, it's safer to stick to conservative and widely accepted attire.
Regional Differences: In cities like New York, where finance intersects with fashion, there might be more tolerance for high-end or unique clothing. However, in more conservative regions or firms, such choices could be frowned upon.
In summary, while a fur-trimmed Canada Goose jacket might be fine, items like a full mink coat or fur gloves could be seen as excessive or inappropriate, especially for junior professionals. When in doubt, err on the side of subtlety and professionalism to avoid potential backlash.
Sources: Casualisation of Office Dress Codes, girls internship attire, Is it Okay to Have Facial Hair on Wall Street?, Female intern clothes, What are your thoughts on changing dress code?
On the off-chance that this is a serious question, there's no policy I'm aware of anywhere (at least among major IBs) against fur, formal or informal.
Two comments vaguely relevant though.
1) If in doubt (and this goes for everything), just err on the side of caution until you get a better sense of team, culture, etc. You aren't going to be wearing fur in the summer in any case.
2) The "level of shit you can get away with" (in general for everything from time of arrival at the office to when you go to the gym) depends a lot on how good you are, and there aren't any "rules" that apply based on your title.
I don't think anyone would care about the fur from a political view, likely more from it standing out quite a bit which differs from the more conservative industry. Mink coat would definitely get looks just given how unusual it is. Canada Goose with fur trim likely wouldn't even be noticed.
Autem nesciunt natus autem aut dolor harum quisquam dignissimos. Possimus voluptatem culpa tempora eveniet. Odio voluptas nostrum maxime voluptatibus magnam non.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...