With the multitude of fashion forward media, I wonder when we will all get it. I didn't, until someone showed me a JCrew catalogue. When I stepped into my first Banana Republic, I was scared. But, the fear most likely came from the strategically placed mirrors. I could see myself.

So, is that it? Are the fashion flunky's not getting there daily dose of vanity? Alright, I take that back. You don't have to spend an hour in the mirror, but a few minutes in the morning wouldn't hurt. Take pride in yourself.

Alright, I hear you. I don't care what other people think! I don't care about fashion! Well, tell me where you are in life, if you don't care about personal appearance. I welcome your emails. Don't get me wrong, you don't have to be up on the Spring 2006 D&G collection. However, you should be able to know that socks don't go with sandals. (Even with Birkenstocks)

Fashion is not just about looking good. Fashion and success go hand in hand. I mean I can't promise that an Armani suit is going to make you your first million. But, I can guarantee that it will bring you one step closer to it.

Whether it's a new job, a new relationship or being treated better in public; your appearance matters. Try to get a job with out-of-date trousers. Try to get trousers buy asking for trousers- times change. Good luck on a date with the beer gut, flannel shirt and tucked in wife beater. Have you ever gone out to eat and wondered why your server asked if your well done fah-lay min-yawn was done enough? Sorry, I had to throw that one in there.

My point is that no matter how nice you are, chances are you may never get the respect you deserve if you do not know how to properly dress yourself. Test this. Ask your buddy to dress in a suit and tie and you dress in dirty jeans and your old Big Johnson tee. Next, walk into a car lot. Report back to me who receives the better treatment.

So, next time you head out your front door, make sure your socks match, check your hair and remember, it's okay to be a straight guy with a queer eye.

P.S. This post may have been a result of drop-jaw disbelief in my father-in-law.