spaw and don -

I think you might be making too much of the fashion issue. These days, there are clothing choices that run the gamut of fashion, from shorts and tees to knitted ensembles ... all can be trendy, all can be appropriate. I don't think one should have to limit oneself to herringbone sports coat with (or without) elbow patches, and Oshkosh B'Gosh bibs may be fine for some while others find them too confining, lacking in true expression. I think the author's original request for cords may be acceptable, under today's fashion guidelines. After all the sky's the limit - and I've seen some really classy cords on the racks for this Fall!