That moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived – pay day! This is what all your hard work has been for. The long hours, unpaid internships and sleepless nights all boil down to this; your new bank balance is demanding your attention.
What do you spend it on? IB Insider is here to help…
As shallow as it sounds, looking the part is crucial in the investment banking industry. How you present yourself to your colleagues and clients is imperative, others are more likely to take you seriously when you appear to take yourself seriously.
This doesn’t mean hiding the lighter side of your personality, but it does mean you should avoid coming to work looking like a mediocre candidate from the Apprentice does before hearing their career chances end with “you’re fired!”
Designer labels are the uniform of investment banking. It’s a statement; you’ve made it, you’re successful, you belong here.
Here are IB Insider’s top picks of staple pieces that every investment banker should have in her wardrobe.
Shoes
Our first pick for shoes is this classic pump from Aquazzura which retails for £490 (€550/$750). Elegant and versatile, this shoe is an appropriate component of any outfit and can be worn with or without tights, while the bowtie at the back adds a sophisticated twist.
This pump is a known favourite of Meghan Markle, who has been seen wearing it at numerous appearances.
Next up is this pair by Christian Louboutin. These vibrant red-red bottoms are a great option if you want to add a pop of colour and liven up an outfit whilst remaining professional. Make them yours for £545 (€545/$750).
A Jimmy Choo favourite, the ‘Gela buckled suede point-toe flats’ for £412 (€495/$550) are a truly versatile shoe. Made in Italy from supple black suede with a buckle fastening, they’ll look elegant both with pants and dresses. Just the slightest heel and a pointed toe will make any investment banker feel confident, while comfy.
Handbags
A handbag is always by your side, containing all the necessities for a post meeting refresh. Hiding its contents but always visible, having the right bag is like choosing the right armour.
The first option is this ‘Tessuto Vitalo leather-trimmed nylon tote’ by Prada which retails at £1170 (€1300/$1550). This piece is perfect for an investment banker because of its simplicity, sophistication and practicality. It’s chic but understated.
If you want to draw eyes and stand out, this ‘Paloma mini leopard-print suede, leather and canvas tote’ by Christian Louboutin might be for you. At £1365 (€1390/$1790) this bag is a great investment as its neutral tones mean it can easily be paired with any colour while it’s still sure to grab attention and make you unforgettable to clients!
A great classic by Givenchy, ‘Antigona’ celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and, for the occasion, makes a new appearance with a soft model. Thanks to the smooth shapes, resistant leather, and capacious size, this £1690 (€1750/$2450) tote holds even more than you’d first expect for the long days spent in the office.
Coats
As your coat is the external layer of your everyday outfit, it’s the first thing people see when you enter work or meet a client. First impressions count, and a great coat helps to establish a professional start to any day.
This ‘Bain belted felt coat’ by coat by Alice + Olivia retails at £675 (€730/$700), an incredible price for what is a stylish and flattering item. It will go nicely with any shoe or bag.
If you want to opt for something different, this ‘Double-breasted velvet-trimmed crystal-embellished wool coat’ by Miu Miu is a great way of being unique while maintaining a professional look. At £2660 (€2950/$3500), the coat won’t be the only green in the office, with envious looks following this piece wherever it goes.
This little gem by FENDI will be your best ally to show determination, confidence, and style in front of your competitors.
This ‘Brown belted jacquard coat’ comes from the latest collection for £2890 (€3000/$3980) and pays homage to the brand’s signature ‘Zucca’ motif designed by the iconic Karl Lagerfeld.
Style is matter of preference and what really counts isn’t what you wear but the performance under the layers of FENDI.
That said, the above suggestions offer an opportunity to use that newly acquired Amex and refine your taste in the context of the investment banking sector.
