Fashion Watch: Too Hot and Not Cool

Gay Guy,

Did you see the article in today's Washington Post on the rigid dress codes for the men of Capitol Hill? They refuse to strip down from their dark suits, even when the heat index hits an all-time high.

Here's a quote: "He does not begrudge his uniform. He relishes the corporate noose. ... His cuffs stay buttoned. His jacket, unruffled. ... Washington men do not bow to Apollo. Our sun kings never relinquish the suit."

You know that I'm not on the same page, GG. If there's a casual fringe of a dress code, that's where you'll find me. When it gets this hot, rules have to bend even further. I heard through reliable sources that you wore shorts to the office yesterday. I'm proud of you.

One of the quoted proponents of traditional style says "wearing a suit is a point of pride. It implies you’re doing something important. ... Can you imagine the president coming out to talk about the economy in khakis and a golf shirt?”

Of course I can.

I'm on the same page as the fashion expert from GQ. (Wow, that never happens.) He says "I think most men know if you dress for the weather, it shows that you have common sense... People are looking for that in management... Politicians shouldn’t be sweating. It makes them look untrustworthy."

--Straight Guy

LINK: Washington Post: Heat wave hits Washington, but its men remain armored in their suits