The TikTok viral “Man in Finance” sound is set to be the song of the summer, but style experts aren’t convinced that the ‘finance bros’ are dressed for the occasion.
“I’m looking for a man in finance. Trust fund. 6’5. Blue eyes…” All it took was those twelve words, packaged brilliantly into a bumpy little beat, and repeated over and over again by 26-year-old Megan Boni, better known on TikTok as “the girl on the couch.”
Her saucy, 19-second summoning for a tall, wealthy, light-eyed man has been catapulted across the internet and remixed by DJs across the world. It’s also created a frenzy of attention for a group that probably doesn’t need a bigger ego boost — “finance bros.”
This generation of privileged, overworked bankers doesn’t get the best rep. Though not a homogenous group, many are known for their more pompous qualities; self-righteous smirks, obsessive protein intake, semi-functioning alcoholism, acceptance of sleep deprivation, and frequent boasting of their six-figure salaries. Of course, you can’t ignore one of the worst facets of the “finance bro” aesthetic: their style.
Wall Street bankers and venture capitalists once dressed with timeless elegance and class, exuding a confident, masculine style worthy of respect and admiration. But, as one stylist puts it: ‘”Looking” like you work in finance is a less romantic notion than it once was.” Tailored pinstripe suits have been traded for lululemon’s ABC Joggers and puffy Patagonia vests, fine linens for tech fabrics, and leather dress shoes for eco-friendly Allbirds.
Though there is nothing wrong with more causal athleticwear — a concept welcomed by many working remotely during the pandemic — many stylists agree that the time is well past due for finance bros to elevate their appearances. So, if this song can spur any societal change, let it be a rebirth of the man in finance look.
The dress code for investment bankers has become progressively permissive — that doesn’t mean they should be slacking on mature styles.
It’s been an underwhelming evolution, to say the least. That was the verdict of Kin Moy, a Boston-based image consultant, style coach, and the founder of Dapper Dangerous Styling.
“When you think of finance, traditionally, you think of stripes. Whether that’s the pinstripe suits of the 80s and 90s, the white and blue striped dress shirts, or even those blue shirts with the contrasting white collar and cuffs,” Moy explained. “Over the years, all offices have become more casual, and current dress codes are permissive towards athleisure.”
According to Moy, comfort quickly became the top priority, with more and more “finance bros” opting for unobtrusive, stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics, steering away from the cotton, wool, and cashmere that offer more dimension than the flat, shiny polyester. The stylist understands that “looking sharp” isn’t always a focus for these men — finance bros are understandably more focused on their jobs than their outfits.”
To make matters worse, the rigid social stratification at these offices often deter men from dressing creatively and pushes them towards uniformity — which Moy calls a “major style among the finance bros: Yes, finance bros have a uniform and it’s ugly,” he admitted. “There’s spoken etiquette and unspoken etiquette. Clothing is part of that etiquette. So when there’s an unspoken uniform in the office, deviating too far from that can cause friction.”
So what is one to do about this receding man’s fashion phenomenon? Moy’s advice: tweak the uniform but don’t reinvent the wheel.
Moy has predicted a menswear renaissance— in which the ‘finance bro aesthetic’ will be reimagined and romanticized to look more like ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ than ‘Cole Haan-Patagonia man.’
Experts seem to agree with Moy’s prediction that “bros” will adopt more mature styles — and ones that can be worn from in-person days at the office to happy hour, as well as by ordinary non-finance folks who have been inspired by “man in finance” core.
Celebrity Stylist Samantha Brown has always had a great pulse on fashion trends within the context of the New York City hustle — which is why it’s no surprise that many working professionals go to her for styling advice. While Brown does acknowledge that the pandemic dramatically shifted finance bros towards athleisure, she does suspect that “bros” will be shopping more polished, refined brands this summer.
Finance bros seem to be having a renaissance where they want to break this mold and modernize with cooler silhouettes, mixing up their textures and styling looks that feel a bit more relevant,” she explained.
When it comes to specific brands, Brown has pointed toward Todd Synder — who is one of her favorite menswear designers. “He consistently puts out wearable, modern, and not overly trendy pieces that would still fit the aesthetic of a cooler finance bro. For well-fitted shirts, pants, and layering pieces, Brown also suggested the “finance bro” mainstay, Theory. For fill-ins, she’s recommended Rag & Bone and Vince, and for those who are ready to splurge — Cucinelli and Brioni.
The stylist also emphasized the importance of accessorizing, which is often lost in the casualization of men’s workwear. “Watches are still an immediate way to communicate status and style, and a beautiful timepiece will last forever,” she pointed out.
If they’re able to deliver on all these styling suggestions, the finance bros may just be on track to secure a much-needed, new-and-improved image this summer. Afterall, there should be nothing they love more than capitalizing on good press.
Shop “finance bro” pieces inspired by Samantha Brown and Kin Moy’s recommendations
Bonobos Weekday Warrior Dress Pants
“Bonobos does stealth athleisure the best. That’s the first place I take clients who are trying to graduate from Lulu ABCs and Birddogs, but can’t sacrifice the stretch and comfort,” shared Moy. The Weekday Warrior pants are a great place to start thanks to the wrinkle-resistant, easy-care cotton and the variety of fit options, from slim tailored, to athletic and classic.
Mephisto Kurtis Penny Loafer
One sophisticated staple loafer is really all you need for work. But, make sure it pairs well with a range of outfits and is comfortable enough for pacing around the office. “Mephisto offers dignified dress shoes that legitimately feel like sneakers,” shared Moy. “Most of the designs look fuddy-duddy, but the Kurtis, Manko, and Max are foolproof recommendations.”
Eton Signature Twill Shirt
“If you’re willing to invest a bit more (you’ve got that ‘finance money,’ right?) then Eton shirts are a no-brainer,” instructed Moy. Eton’s variety of Twill fabric shirts promises impeccable draping and perfect luster, the perfect addition for more formal business attire. They also come in seven shades and are lightweight enough for a sweltering summer subway ride.
Le Alfre Le Original Oxford Shirt
“If you’d like to support a local brand that is bringing back the romanticized aesthetic of ‘a man in finance,’ then definitely check out Le Alfre!” encouraged Moy. “It was started by an Ex Wall Street guy determined to bring the banker shirt back en vogue!” The Le Original Oxford shirt is understandably one of the best-sellers, evoking a combination of playful, preppy rugby style and commanding office attire.
Maverick and Co. Manhattan Deluxe Leather Briefcase
Smooth, sleek leather is a necessity with men’s accessories, especially when it comes to their carryables. “A sharp briefcase is the most underrated accessory for the white-collar professional,” explained Moy. “Satchel and Page, Stuart and Lau, or Maverick & Co for something durable and waterproof are my go-to recommendations,” shared Moy.
Todd Synder X Sperry Top-sider Suede Boat Shoe
Brown doesn’t want the finance bros spending their well-earned dollars on quick-living fads. Rather, she has pointed them toward a brand that creates timeless staples that push past the trends. “Todd Snyder is one of my favorite menswear designers because he consistently puts out wearable, modern, and not overly trendy pieces that would still fit the aesthetic of a cooler ‘finance bro,’” said Brown. Synder’s latest boat shoe collaboration with Sperry is the perfect example of accessible luxury.
Theory Brenan Polo Shirt in Cotton-Linen
“Theory, a finance bro mainstay, is great for the basics like well-fitting shirts and pants, plus an occasional layering piece that will still add polish,” shared Brown. The more laidback Brennan Polo shirt is adored by reviewers, with one writing: “First exceptionally well. Fabric is chic and breathable, but lays nicely without the wrinkled linen feel.”
Brioni Men’s Woven Boxes and Squares Silk Tie
To conquer the uniformity of the finance bro look, consider the more unique styles, and smaller accessories that add a pop of color to an outfit‚ like this lovely patterned silk tie from Brioni. “For those with deeper pockets, Cucinelli and Brioni offer gorgeous color palettes and fabrics,” suggested Brown.
Rag & Bone Noah Cotton Blouson Shirt Jacket
Even once you’ve stocked up on all the basics, there will still be some gaps in the wardrobe. “Rag & Bone and Vince are great for the fill-ins of a menswear wardrobe,” said Brown. This Blouson Shirt Jacket from Rag & Bone is cinched with a rib-knit hem to achieve a relaxed silhouette, elevated with a pointed collar, and buttoned up the front.
Vince Fulton Leather Sneaker
Sneakers are never off the table, but they can’t look shabby. Taking Brown’s other recommendation — Vince also offers a wide variety of straightforward pieces built for everyday business attire. The shoe selection receives especially wonderful feedback, and these clean, white lace-up leather sneakers fit all the marks.
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