IB Women’s Dress Code

On the backpacks, I personally tend to stick to totes because it’s just easier to access in my opinion, plus backpack straps can wrinkle suit jacket shoulders. I wasn’t a big tote person prior to starting in IB, but I have to admit it does have advantages

On the white jacket, think that’s really dependent on office. I’m NYC based, so tends to be a bit more buttoned up and I wouldn’t wear it in my office, but on the west coast it could be acceptable in a biz casual setting, but would take cues from others.

• on the matching of separates... this one is really hit or miss, blacks are easier to match but I think it’s too hard to match greys or blues so I try to stick to sets on those

A few other things: - one of the brands I LOVE recently is MM la Fleur (also women-owned so that’s cool). Super functional, staple pieces that are classic - do not wear open toed pumps. I know it might be summer, and you’re going to be on the west coast, but just don’t haha

Generally, my approach when building my wardrobe as a 1yr analyst was the following (also would note I’m not fashion-oriented, and was looking for the basics to later build on once I was more established + had more $ to spend):

• invest in a few (2-3) “quality” suits that you get tailored... don’t have to be expensive, but also these are more of a staple piece so want them to last
• 1-2 “quality” blouses (white/French blue/cream)
• 3-4 shells, not super expensive (I honestly just found I style I liked and bought like 2 in each color)
• a couple of cheap button downs (think GAP / H&M level haha)
• 2 cheap blazers, one in black and one in blue that kinda matches suit (or grey if that’s your thing).. left both at the office in the event of a meeting that pops up, just to have a back up
• 2 pairs black heels, one nude, pair of oxfords, pair of loafers, pair of all birds for a) commuting and b). Late nights in office
• 2-3 dresses
• something to keep you warm in the office (I went for a blanket scarf, could be a cardigan, anything)

Dresses were a game changer for me because it’s really easy to look put together, removes the headache of matching separates, and (if you find the right fabric) don’t wrinkle as easily. Obviously be cognizant of cuts etc, but personally the addition of dresses into my wardrobe was huge

At the end of the day, you’re just looking to not have attention drawn to your outfit as a a female analyst. Sometimes you might see female senior bankers with crazy prints, huge brand names, etc. but for analysts, the goal is to not stick out for your clothing. Last thing I’d say is I’ve always found if I’m unsure of the level of formality, err on the side of more formal. Obv for guys it’s easy to remove a tie and a jacket to go from formal to biz casual, but for women it’s less clearly defined, and it’s better to be slightly over dressed than under dressed.