Quote Originally Posted by Zhronne View Post
how your character looks is part of.....who you represent
This is exactly why FFXI needs such a feature. So people can look like what they want, rather than what gear currently gives them the best stats/bonuses.

Quote Originally Posted by Zhronne View Post
....of the hardship to obtain that specific item you're showing off.
The system mentioned by Camate states you can lock an appearance of gear, meaning you have to actually have the gear first. Your shinies will still be shiney.