Mark Zuckerberg, once the poster child for Silicon Valley’s utilitarian wardrobe of hoodies and jeans, is undergoing a serious image reinvention—and it’s turning heads across the tech and fashion worlds.
In a recent interview with Acquired, the Meta CEO appeared wearing a De Bethune DB25 Starry Varius watch, a sleek timepiece valued at nearly $95,000, placing it in the same price bracket as a Tesla Cybertruck. This extravagant accessory marks a sharp departure from Zuckerberg’s famously minimalist fashion choices.
From Function to Flash
Just a decade ago, Zuckerberg told interviewers that minimizing wardrobe decisions allowed him to focus his energy on Meta’s mission. But now, the billionaire is embracing a more curated, fashion-forward identity.
Earlier this month, he posted a photo with wife Priscilla Chan—with fans quickly identifying a Patek Philippe 5236P watch on his wrist. Its estimated value? Over $141,000.
This shift signals something deeper than a taste for luxury: a carefully orchestrated public image evolution.
“Zuckerberg 3.0”: The Rise of Tech Chic
Gone are the buzzcuts and gray tees. In their place: longer curls, designer suits, and even gold chains. His wardrobe now includes statement pieces from Alexander McQueen, Buck Mason, Todd Snyder, and Vuori—an elevated streetwear-meets-tech-executive aesthetic.
Style consultant Carol Davidson dubbed his new vibe as “elevated street frat,” while others call it “Zuckerberg 3.0”—a modern, relatable billionaire look designed for Gen Z approval.
Strategy or Spontaneity?
While Meta’s spokesperson claims that Zuckerberg still shops mostly via Instagram ads, experts suggest otherwise. According to image consultant Edith Chan, the billionaire’s wardrobe appears far too coordinated to be accidental.
“This is about elevating perception—he’s sending a message that aligns with leadership, evolution, and cultural relevance.”
Even the Wall Street Journal and New York Times have chimed in, analyzing his glow-up as a branding move meant to humanize him during a period of high visibility and scrutiny.
Is It Working?
According to Venky Ganesan of Menlo Ventures, absolutely.
“Zuck’s rebranding is good for business. He’s signaling growth and adaptability—which is exactly what investors and users want to see from a tech leader.”
Fashion-forward or not, Zuckerberg’s style makeover seems to be doing more than grabbing attention. It’s reshaping the narrative of a man who once claimed to avoid vanity—now embracing a look that says “innovator in control”.