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The Earnestness of Style

White Collars

What does the way we dress say about us? In this episode of White Collars, we dive into the meaning of style, dignity, decorum, and why clothing still matters in a culture that increasingly prioritizes comfort over presentation. Inspired by Peggy Noonan’s article “The Senator’s Shorts and America’s Decline,” we discuss everything from Senate dress codes and JFK’s influence on fashion to Catholic teaching on dressing for Mass, workplace expectations, uniforms, and the deeper connection between outward appearance and inward disposition. Along the way, we cover: The decline of formal dress in America after the 1960s Dressing for Mass and the controversy around “Heaven has a dress code” Catholic perspectives on reverence, discipline, and self-respect Bermuda business attire and international workplace customs Clerical attire, cassocks, and traveling in a Roman collar Why raising standards may actually inspire people rather than push them away This conversation is about far more than clothes. It’s about identity, intentionality, respect, and the pursuit of greatness over comfort. 👔 From hoodies in the Senate to ties in the classroom, this episode asks: Have we stopped dressing like what we believe matters?