I think one has to look at the two prime and diametically opposed motivations.

On one are fundamentalist religions, (in whole or part.) Jews wear yamulkas (sp) and head covering scarves, dull colors and the orthodox wear black. Muslims also cover up, especially their women. Here in the US, fundamentalist denounce short skirts and tight fitting clothing, make-up, and even pierced ears.

On the other side is fashion. Fashion accentuates sexuality. From bustles to corsets to accentuate the female form, to bright colors, exposing skin, and soft 'touch-me' fabrics and furs, fashion has been about the laws of attraction.

So I disagree with the basic concept that all clothing is oppressive. We men might like some of the fashions because we perceive them as constricting... but the women (imo) love anything that makes them attractive.

Quote Originally Posted by TomOfSweden View Post
I'm vain. I care about how I look. Am I detecting some cultural stigma against admitting this?
I don't think so... I think people sitting around their computers tend to be in their 'relaxation' mode... Put them in a scene or send them out for dinner, theater, dancing; and they will go into their 'let's dress up' mode.