Obviously, the answer to that question is Yes. I do care how I look. To me.

I don't care how I look to others, or rather, I don't want to hear it. If you think I look good, or you like the outfit I'm wearing, or you think the color of my shirt complements my eyes, keep it to yourself. Also, if you don't like an untucked shirt, or you believe flannel should only be worn by lumberjacks, or you take a personal affront to my shoes, these are opinions best left unvoiced.

If I want your opinion about my clothing and personal style, I promise I will ask for it. If I should ever succumb to a moment of doubt in my ability to express myself through appearance and require a sheep-like mass approval, I will beg for a rating.

But understand, I dress for two reasons: protection from the elements; my own taste, comfort and amusement. What I'm wearing doesn't affect my ability to do my job, nor should it be seen as an indication of how well I will perform my duties. I do not believe a tie or Oxford shirt will make me a better graphic designer anymore than a black T-shirt, beret and morose expression would.

I do not, DO NOT dress to keep up with the dictates of a few designers in New York bent on manufacturing an immediate sense of out-moded style in order to sell a new line to pad their own bank accounts. I admire their marketing and the way they have promoted themselves as important. I just am not an acolyte.

If you are shallow and feel justified in judging me based solely on my Wrangler jeans, pullover sweater and canvas sneakers, how about a little honesty? I'm not a bum, I'm an individual brave enough to buck society's fashion trends. At the same time, I'll try not to look at you as a mindless herd animal blindly buying and wearing what will, in only a few months, be looked back upon as laughable and dated.