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White Shoe Firm

Candlefocus Editor
The term “white shoe firm” is an old term used to refer to well-established and prestigious businesses that are mostly concentrated in certain professions, such as law, banking and finance. The term originates from the white buck oxfords, a men's shoe style worn by most Ivy League students during the 1950s.

White shoe firms are typically known for their Ivy League/WASP exclusivity and their conservative and cautious approach to operating their business. They strive to represent an elite and high quality service to their clients and are willing to invest in long-term projects that promise success. They are also known to employ some of the most talented graduates and practitioners in the legal and finance sectors.

Despite the prestige associated with white shoe firms, a number of them have been acquired by larger rivals and some have gone out of business as the industry has become more competitive. These firms have been largely replaced by technology and online services that are rapidly advancing and transforming the way in which law and finance is practiced.

White shoe firms have a rich history and tradition of providing a high quality and exclusive service to clients, and this is an element that still remains at their core. While the industry continues to evolve and change, these firms will strive to continue providing excellent customer service and quality legal and financial advice for decades to come.

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