To me, my vita and my success with passing along knowledge are all that really matters. I choose to dress in a way that's physically and emotionally comfortable. That's not anyone's choice but mine. And the argument of first impressions doesn't really hold, since you generally get a whole term or semester to make the true impression. All this, however, reflects the way I think it should be.
Reality is clearly different.
It clearly affects women in the field, who seem to have to spend more money and effort at it than men. You are welcome to send us digital photographs of yourself or of colleagues whose attire you admire. Many e-mail programs will allow photos to be sent as attachments. Be sure to include your name, affiliation, and any description or comments you'd like to accompany the photo. Check this box if you would like this submission to be considered for publication as a letter to the editor in the printed Chronicle.