I know this sounds silly but... I have *always* had a specific look in mind for my characters. It goes with the idea that when someone or something sees me, my appearance will be the first impression before I even utter a word or fire an arrow. I actually used to take time while rolling characters for D&D and RIFTS to draw my character out, usually on the back of my character sheet. And it's helped many a campaign out! My party members often get a better idea of my personality (e.g. subtle and understated versus showy and flashy); plus, my DMs have fun adding environment quips like, "Your once-trusty worn down boots fall apart as you run, tripping you up as you try to dash into battle," if I failed my initiative/combat rolls... Which is, embarrassingly, quite often. lol We've also had a "NO CAPES!" (a la "The Incredibles") moment before where the DM said, "The ogre picks you up by your gaudy silk cape and handily catapults you over the trees. Sit out the next turn as you run back toward your party. You now know better and recall the wisdom of your master, 'NO CAPES!!'" It was a bard-like character who had a knack for foppish fashions and he certainly learned the hard way.

That's why I'm so psyched for transmogrification in 4.3. My hunter can finally look like an actual hunter instead of a walking trophy hall that is FAR from conducive when it comes to stalking prey or, you know, hunting. By the way, if anyone has an ideal pair of mail shoulders, I'd be most appreciative... I'm still having a hard time finding a balance between "impressive" (like I'm not a beginner) and "functional" (e.g. not glowing orbs or dragon heads or roving eyes).

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