Shiny suits once made real estate agents easy targets on a Saturday morning but the booming property market has given their traditional uniform an upgrade. Today any agent worth their commission looks like they’ve raided the walk-in wardrobe of a seven-figure home, trading well-worn fabric for the refined polish of international brands and social media-friendly style.
“I’ve always enjoyed looking good. I’m comfortable with it,” said Gavin Rubinstein, founder of The Rubinstein Group for Ray White. “I love putting together ensembles. Double-breasted, single-breasted, turned-up cuffs, structured or unstructured… their currency is the energy they give.”
Gavin Rubinstein, star of reality series Luxe Listings, in Sydney’s Vaucluse on Thursday.Credit:James Brickwood
That energy has helped Rubinstein, 32, achieve enough spectacular sales to keep his wardrobe packed with more than 200 suits, designer watches, pristine Nike Air Force 1 sneakers and Tom Ford ties.
“If it looks good and makes me happy I’ll treat myself in certain ways. I don’t have a budget,” Rubinstein said of how much he spends on clothing. “When I am growing my profile I create more opportunities for buyers and sellers.”
It has also earned the immaculately attired agent a role on the Amazon Prime television series Luxe Listings and attracted more than 50,000 followers on Instagram, eager to shower his prolific posts in flame emojis, making him a new breed of fashion influencer.
Leading Melbourne real estate agent Marty Fox has ditched socks and suits but still wears Gucci shoes to impress buyers and sellers. Credit:Jason South
“I have been approached multiple times by a bunch of brands and I’m currently working on an ambassador deal with Patrick Johnson,” Rubinstein said.
While many female agents continue clinging to a style of fitted dresses and red-soled heels borrowed from newsreaders, men are using an adventurous approach to attract buyers, sellers and followers.
When Marty Fox, 34, launched Whitefox Real Estate in Melbourne in 2017 he ditched suits, ties and socks to stand out from the competition. Exposed ankles have contributed to Fox attracting more than 15,400 followers to his personal Instagram, and promotion deals with luxury car dealers and health brands.
