"Closet" Katfromfinance
We interviewd Kat from Finance, the IT girl of corporate dressing. She goes in the opposite direction of office tropes and is redefining the corporate-core trends to embrace workwear in a way that leans away from cosplay. The 'Kat from Finance' persona is a true reflection of her in the professional environment, and she does not hold back.
Describe your personal style in 3 words!
Bold- Expressive- Unconventional
Which designers or style icons have shaped your closet the most?
Lately, I’ve been really inspired by Tom Ford’s Gucci era when it comes to my work wardrobe. There’s something about the simplicity and confidence in those looks that really speaks to me. I’ve started leaning into cleaner lines, darker tones, and pieces that feel a bit sharper and more intentional. I also love what Anthony Vaccarello is doing at Saint Laurent: it’s sleek, strong, and unapologetically sensual. His silhouettes really resonate with me, especially the way he plays with structure and edge without losing elegance.
I have a real soft spot for Fidan Novruzova, too. The pieces she creates are constructed so beautifully, using volume and shape. I’ve had my eye on a pair of the Kaia stiletto trouser heels for a while.
My style icon is Julia Fox. You get such a grasp of her personality from the looks she wears. I love that she’s daring — it feels like that’s what fashion should be. It evokes feeling.
What is your earliest magazine memory?
My mother and grandmother both loved magazines — especially fashion and interiors — so we always had stacks of them around the house. Even before I could read, I’d lie on my stomach on the floor, flipping through the pages and getting lost in the editorial spreads. I’ve always been drawn to high fashion and the sense of direction it takes to make it come alive on the page. That early fascination never really left me.
What’s your origin story — how did “Kat from Finance” come to life?
I started sharing my work outfits because, like many, I spend most of my week in workwear — but I noticed so much of the fashion conversation was focused around streetwear and casual looks. I felt there was less inspiration for women dressing for the office. For me, getting dressed is a way to feel confident and express who I am, even in a corporate setting. Workwear can be bold, it can be elegant, and above all, it can be empowering.
So, I began posting on Tik Tok and Instagram incorporating the three things I like – elevated corporate looks, upbeat 80s classics and my love for mid-century interiors (that’s where the work loo comes in). It seemed this was a winning combination, and the posts started to gain traction.
What inspires your unique approach to “corporate dressing” — rebellion, self-expression, performance art, all of the above? // You’re known for your unique approach to corporate dressing — chic, rebellious, and subversive. What drives that?
The way I dress is an outward expression of who I am as a person., In my head I had a certain perception of what a successful woman was meant to look like, so when I first stepped into my role, I leaned towards more conventional workwear— choosing pieces that felt appropriate for the world in which I was working. But as I grew more comfortable and started bringing more of myself into the role, both in personality and in dressing in a way that felt authentic, I noticed a real shift both in my performance and the working relationships I had. The more I gave, the more positively I was received. The way I dress gives me confidence to walk in everyday and approach my role with enthusiasm. I really love what I do and who I work with.
Have you ever been challenged — formally or informally — at work because of how you dress? How did you respond?
I’m pleased to say I haven’t. There’s a real acceptance for how I dress, which I genuinely appreciate. I’ve always believed it’s the work that should speak volumes — not what you wear to complete it. Me wearing a tie doesn’t impact my productivity or the standard of my output, and I think that mindset is increasingly understood. I also feel that, since COVID, the rigidity of dress codes has relaxed somewhat. There’s more space for personal expression in the corporate workplace now — and I think that’s a positive shift.
What’s the most surprising or meaningful message you’ve received from someone inspired by your content?
I often receive messages from women saying the account has given them the confidence to express themselves at work — and that means an awful lot. It’s incredibly moving to know that something as simple as sharing my outfits can help others feel more empowered in their own space.
What’s your favorite software? Office tool? Your favorite lunch at work? Where do you order from?
This is easy, I am very partial to Excel, nothing gets me more excited than when I hear a good shortcut (my personal favourite is Ctrl + Shift + L for adding and removing filters). I am pretty diligent in terms of bringing in my own lunch, however, I am a huge fan of Salad Project. My go-to is the Thai Me Up and I’ll add feta.
How does it feel like to become someone else’s moodboard ?
I love it — it’s incredibly flattering! It’s exciting when people tag me in their versions of looks I’ve worn. I enjoy seeing how they reinterpret it, adding their own personal spin. That kind of creativity and individuality is what makes fashion fun — it’s not about getting it “right,” it’s about making it yours.
Which prompt should we use to ask ChatGPT to create one of your outfits? // Tell us the perfect prompt to get ChatGPT to generate one of your outfits!
Oooo, I love this question. I actually saw a debate on LinkedIn recently about whether we should say “please” and “thank you” to ChatGPT — and I’m firmly in the yes camp. So, I’d say:
“Please give me an ‘80s office power look with a contemporary twist, and incorporate a square-toed shoe of some sort.”
Did you block HR from your account?
I can confirm HR has not been blocked. My colleagues are aware of the KFF account — and they’re incredibly supportive. They're also very partial to an unboxing in the office whenever something gets delivered!
If Novembre readers could only take one financial tip from you, what would it be?
This is a personal finance related tip – if you’re in the UK, then make sure you get a Stocks and Shares ISA and start saving what you can. Financial independence is very in this season.
