Katey, I was actually planning to edit my reply to add something similar to what you said. It really boils down to having an image that inspires customers to give you their money. Doing great work is the most important thing of course, but customers can be VERY critical and judgmental of everything, including what they feel your appearance should be. If you dont look the way they think an IT person should, they are likely to make a snap judgment and take their money elsewhere. Its not right at all, but its business.