I think eventually, people come around to this point .. or work actively to not succumb (these are the guys who refuse to wear new duds .. or wash their existing ones too often).

Anyway, on the subject of helmets, I too "splurged" on a Giro Atmos. On my inaugural ride with it, I actually got a compliment on the helmet! And this from a guy driving around town with his son/grandson in the back seat. I had never had that happen, at least not for a helmet.

So, I just bought a new one to match my other bike I couldn't agree any more about the fashion thing. I worry just as much about matching my outfits as I do about the ride.