Why Zucherberg's Style Still 'Sucks'

Ok, so his style doesn't quite suck but it is hit and miss; being one part Werther's Originals grandpa and one part sci-fi Matrix vibes... I explain.

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and CEO of Facebook (now Meta), has long been associated with his trademark casual look—specifically, his grey t-shirts, jeans, and hoodies. This sartorial choice became emblematic of the tech start up culture: laid-back, focused on innovation, and uninterested in traditional corporate norms. However, in recent years, Zuckerberg’s wardrobe has undergone a noticeable transformation. The once casual tech mogul is now frequently seen in tailored suits and more polished look. This shift is not just about style; it reflects deeper changes in Zuckerberg’s role, Meta’s evolution, and the broader landscape of the tech industry.

The Early Days: Casual and Comfortable

When Zuckerberg started Facebook in his Harvard dorm room, the company embodied the spirit of a scrappy start up. The relaxed dress code mirrored the company’s ethos of breaking away from corporate America’s rigidity. Zuckerberg’s choice of attire was also a practical one. He famously mentioned that wearing the same outfit every day allowed him to reduce decision fatigue, letting him focus on more important matters. Steve Jobs was very similar with several black T-shirt and jeans, there's something to be said for simplicity and is something we here at AW very much cater for for the busy man with zilch time, however, it needn't mean bland.

Stepping into the Spotlight

As Facebook grew into a global giant, Zuckerberg’s responsibilities expanded beyond coding and product development. He became the public face of a company influencing billions of people’s lives. This increased visibility brought more scrutiny and higher expectations from various stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and the public.

The Shift to Suits

The transition from casual to formal attire can be traced back to several pivotal moments:

1. Public Scrutiny and Congressional Hearings: Zuckerberg’s appearances before the U.S. Congress in 2018 marked a significant shift. During these hearings, he was grilled about data privacy, user protection, and Facebook’s role in political processes. Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the need to present a more serious image, Zuckerberg opted for a navy suit and tie. This choice was strategic, aiming to convey respect, responsibility, and a willingness to be held accountable.

2. Meta’s Rebranding: In 2021, Facebook rebranded itself as Meta, signalling a shift in focus toward the metaverse. This rebranding was more than a name change; it was a declaration of a new vision and direction for the company. As the leader of this ambitious pivot, Zuckerberg’s updated look symbolized a readiness to lead Meta into its next phase with a more mature and forward-thinking approach.

3. Leadership and Global Influence: As Meta continues to expand its influence globally, Zuckerberg’s attire reflects his role as a leader on the world stage. Whether meeting with international leaders, attending high-profile conferences, or speaking at significant industry events, a polished appearance helps project confidence, authority, and a sense of gravitas.

Overly Embellished, black suits

One problem when men are wishing to try something new and be bold (and attempt to match the wife) is that it looks far too 'try hard' and lacks authenticity. This suit also ages him. His skin tone is pale, he's still very young yet he's wearing a suit that Elton John would be proud of and although he looks pretty jolly in it, it doesn't do anything positive for him.

Cosy Cardigans

It simply goes from one extreme to another. Dark black, overly embellished suit to a cosy cardigan, black T-shirt and Jeans and trainers. The look is completely hotchpotch. If he wore the cardigan with a simple tailored white T-shirt, tailored mid blue jeans and smarter trainers the look would have suited him and his age far greater.

So, what should he be wearing?

When I work with my clients I look at their profession, lifestyle and most importantly - personality. You simply can't suggest designs to someone that will instantly make them look and feel uncomfortable. All has to flow harmoniously; from the colours worn, the fit, the design to the overall combination. Fit is key but so are many other factors.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Growth or Decline?

Mark Zuckerberg's evolution from casual tees and jeans to a mix of overly formal and 'cooler' casuals mirrors his personal growth and the maturation of Meta. This shift in style reflects his evolving role from a startup founder to the leader of one of the world’s most influential companies. However, his new look still faces criticism and doesn't quite hit the mark for several reasons:

1. Lack of Coherence: Despite attempts to blend formal and casual elements, Zuckerberg's style often feels mismatched and lacking a clear direction. The inconsistency can be seen as an inability to fully transition into a more sophisticated image.
2. Perception of Disconnect: Some critics argue that his updated attire still creates a perception of disconnect from the more formal and traditional business world. In high-stakes settings like congressional hearings or international conferences, his style can seem out of place.
3. Tech Bro Culture: Even with a wardrobe upgrade, Zuckerberg's style remains tied to the "tech bro" culture that is often criticized for being insular and dismissive of traditional business norms. This culture is seen as lacking diversity and inclusivity, which continues to fuel criticism.
4. Brand Image: While the new image attempts to reflect Meta's global influence, some feel that it still doesn't appropriately capture the company's stature and responsibilities. The mix of styles can dilute the intended message of professionalism and authority.
5. Public Perception and Trust: Amid various controversies surrounding Facebook/Meta, including privacy concerns and the spread of misinformation, Zuckerberg's style may still contribute to a perception of him not taking these issues seriously enough. More formal and consistent attire could convey a greater sense of gravitas and accountability.
6. Personal Branding: While the shift in style might be a step towards reducing decision fatigue, it also limits Zuckerberg's ability to use fashion as a powerful tool for personal branding and influence. Other leaders use their style to convey messages, align with causes, or connect with different audiences, something Zuckerberg's approach still struggles to achieve.

Despite these criticisms, it's worth noting that Zuckerberg's consistent style has its defenders who appreciate its practicality, focus on simplicity, and rejection of superficiality in favor of substance. Ultimately, opinions on his style are subjective and influenced by broader societal expectations and the evolving norms of professional attire.

What do you think to Zuckerberg's style or lack of?