The Rise of the Banker's Vest: A Sartorial Shift in the Corporate LandscapeThe humble gilet, also known as the "finance bro vest" or "City boy gilet," has emerged as a sartorial symbol of the corporate world, particularly in the banking industry. As the third season of the hit TV show "Industry" hits our screens, the ubiquitous presence of this sleeveless layer has sparked a renewed interest in the fashion choices of the financial elite.

Embracing the Banker's Uniform: The Allure of the Gilet

The Gilet's Prominence in "Industry"

In the fast-paced world of "Industry," the gilet has become a character in its own right. Adorned with the logo of the fictional Pierpoint investment bank, these garments are worn by the show's characters in the boardroom and on the trading floor, serving as a visual representation of their corporate identity. Costume designer Laura Smith notes that the gilet "does a lot of work in showing how people belong and approach their identity in the world of the show."

The Gilet's Practical Appeal

For those working in the banking industry, the gilet's practical benefits are undeniable. The graduate interviewed for the article cites the garment's ability to keep the body warm without causing excessive sweating, particularly during the commute. Additionally, the gilet's versatility allows for easy removal and storage in a bag, making it a convenient choice for the corporate environment.

The Gilet's Symbolic Significance

The gilet's omnipresence in the banking world has led to it becoming a symbol of corporate culture, particularly the "banker bro" stereotype. As style and culture writer TJ Sidhu notes, the gilet is "such a specific item of clothing that people really recognise and associate with that industry of banker bros." This association has led to the garment being both embraced and parodied, with a viral TikTok video showcasing a flashmob of "finance bros" dancing to the song "Man in Finance" while wearing identical gilets.

The Evolving Landscape of Corporate Attire

The rise of the gilet in the corporate world can be attributed, in part, to the shift towards more casual office attire in the post-pandemic era. With the increased prevalence of remote work, the gilet has become a sartorial solution that allows for a balance between professionalism and comfort, with the ability to maintain a smart appearance for Zoom calls while providing a cozy layer.

The Potential for Fashion Subversion

As the "corpcore" trend continues to gain momentum, there is a possibility that the banker's gilet could be subverted and given a fresh, stylish twist. Style and culture writer TJ Sidhu suggests that the introduction of more vibrant colors and patterns could challenge the traditional banker bro aesthetic, potentially elevating the gilet to a fashion-forward statement.

The Future of the Banker's Vest

Whether the gilet's prominence in "Industry" and its growing popularity in the banking industry will translate to broader fashion trends remains to be seen. However, the garment's ability to become a symbol of corporate identity and its potential for fashion subversion suggest that the banker's vest may continue to evolve and hold a significant place in the sartorial landscape.