My take on it is, the online store is optional. As much as people hate to see it said again and again, it's true: If you do not want to pay the price, just. Don't. Buy. It. It's really not rocket science here.

Not to mention, they give us free (As in not using irl currency) glams all the time through crafting recipes, seasonal events, and most recently in Island Sanctuary having offered two sets, along with both f and m bottom options!

When Lyse's attire came out, I thought the price wasn't worth putting money on (All I wanted was the hair and I hated how the set was one piece), so I didn't buy it. The Street attire came out, and I passed on it because...well, really it was because it clashes horrifically with the world building and aesthetic FFXIV is going for. But still, I had the option, and I passed. The mounts that are like $30+ aren't necessary for my gameplay. I have tons of mounts. Why do I need a giant space whale? Pass.

The criticism that's legit is on the quality of the fat cat set. They could do better than that and it's unreasonable that the quality doesn't match up with the price, on that I totally agree. A lot of the sets offered for free in-game are way better.

Anyway, you can complain all you want, but that's the reality. You have free will to control your actions. The online store is not mandatory.