This month, the finance industry’s unexpected fashion staple—the gilet—has garnered attention thanks to the much-anticipated return of the HBO series Industry.
Known as the “finance bro vest,” this sleeveless layer has become almost a character in its own right in the show, worn by characters at the fictional Pierpoint investment bank.
According to costume designer Laura Smith, the gilet serves as a visual representation of belonging and identity in the fast-paced world of banking,
As the popularity of the gilet rises, so too do sales in the fashion market. Brands like Hackett and William Crabtree & Sons report year-on-year growth, with the latter seeing a 20% increase since its opening four years ago.
Charles Tyrwhitt also notes a surge in sales, projecting a 20% growth over the next year.
As seen in Industry, the gilet signifies belonging in today’s banking culture.“The gilet is a specific item that people associate with banker culture,” said style writer TJ Sidhu, highlighting its blend of practicality and recognition.
This garment has become synonymous with corporate attire, providing a casual yet smart alternative, especially in the post-pandemic era where work-from-home styles have influenced office wear.
With the rise of “corpcore” aesthetics, there’s potential for the gilet to transcend its current status and evolve into a more fashionable piece.
As seen in a viral TikTok video, the gilet is already embracing parody, yet for many in the finance industry, it remains a practical choice for navigating daily commutes.
While its future in high fashion remains uncertain, it may just be the next garment to receive a Gen Z twist. As Sidhu noted, “In the right hands, the banker bro-ish gilet could be subverted to quite stylish effect.”