The Big Short’s Power Broker
Pre-Financial Crisis, being a banker was a status symbol to be flaunted, not hidden. So suits were pinstriped, collars were contrast and watches cost as much as Liberia’s GDP. Since the crash, however, city style’s grown a touch more restrained, in a rare sign of awareness that ruining millions of lives is at odds with dressing too ostentatiously. But if you weren’t actually involved in that particular economy-wrecking boondoggle, feel free to take notes from the guys who did. And as Ryan Gosling proves in The Big Short, dressing like a Master of the Universe goes a long way to making you one. So bring back the power suit by stretching out those skinny lapels you’ve been wearing, and swap your normal navy for a statement-making check. The contrast collar thing is a touch too throwback, so stick to the white shirt (the better to make that pattern pop) then accessorise with an oversized watch; a Rolex if the bonus has landed, a TW Steel if not. We’d advise not adopting the utter disregard for morality, though.
Suitsupply AW15
Key Pieces
Revenant’s Urban Woodsman
The story of Leonardo DiCaprio’s arduous journey in pursuit of an Oscar isn’t, on the surface, prime sartorial inspiration. Yes, fur is trending. But while it’s excusable when that hand-skinned pelt is all that stands between you and the hypothermia, it’s an invitation for PETA’s red paint if you try it on the street. Better, then, to dilute. Leo’s untamed mane veers too far towards hermit, but the beard and long hair look shows, unlike the man himself, no signs of dying; just make sure you treat yours with a leave-in conditioner so your friends don’t abandon you as well. Then, learn some layering lessons. You might not be in and out of rivers all day, but jumping between frigid streets and commuter trains is, we think, equally arduous. Layer up with lightweight pieces and knits beneath a (faux) fur-lined coat or jacket, so you don’t suffer like Leo.
Pal Zieri aw13
Key Pieces
Steve Jobs’ Personal Uniform
Steve Jobs’ branding genius wasn’t restricted to Apple’s generation-defining products, it applied to his own wardrobe as well. His mock roll neck – designed by Issey Miyake and bought in bulk – became, through force of attrition, a signature. It was a uniform that cemented his image, and his legend, in the public consciousness. Of course, copying someone else’s uniform wholesale isn’t so much a signature style as forgery. So emulate Jobs’ simplicity instead. Opt for neutral colours – in his case, black and blue – which allow you to mix and match without worrying about unsightly clashes. Next, pick a classic piece that few people are wearing; Jobs’ roll neck was avant-garde enough to be distinctive, but not so unusual as to be novelty. Our pick? A granddad-collar shirt, to nail that guru thing. Stock up and wear one everyday. Then just try to build a reputation to match the image.
Zara SS16
Key Pieces
Mad Max’s Post-Apocalyptic Street Ninja
Sometimes city living can feel like a warzone. And although we wouldn’t advise you don fatigues for work every morning, adopting a martial aesthetic can be particularly empowering. The key to Max’s look is a ballsy silhouette. So make like Max and taper; broad shoulders, courtesy of an oversized bomber or a shearling biker jacket, with a longline tee and skinny-fit denim (or, if you’re feeling particularly confident, running tights and mesh shorts). Pick a shade and stick to it: dark greens are on-trend; off-white is dystopian camouflage; and black is a forever fail-safe. Then add in some leather for that road warrior vibe. Jacket, backpack, gloves: yes. Trousers: no. Unless you’re filming the sequel.
Asos 2016