Yeah, that's kind of what I meant -- part of having good professional judgment is knowing how others will perceive you.

Absolutely true, in reality it does not matter if ATC is in their underwear, as long as they do a good job and are paying attention. However, lapses in professionalism are often emblematic of people paying attention to things they shouldn't (e.g. 3407, 3701), and it is difficult to argue kids in the control tower while on duty do not occupy a bit of brainpower keeping track of what THEY are up to.

Many idealistic persons tend to look at themselves in isolation -- I would be the same doctor in jeans and a polo shirt, and possibly more effective because I'd be more comfortable. However, I'm sitting here in a suit and tie typing this before I go home (no lie) because I am aware that many view it as a surrogate for professionalism. This guy should have known a skittish public would not look kindly upon this event.