Why don’t people in Washington take fashion risks?

It’s a loaded question with elements of personal expression, judgment and analysis of the local landscape mixed together.

This week, we’re tackling the topic on-air with experts on the fashion industry, workplace dress codes and personal style. But first, we turned to the residents who inspired this reporting in the first place. Unsurprisingly, they’re sick of the city’s “business casual uniform,” and have found ways to strike out on their own.

Listener Leah Boll

“There’s this expectation that everyone has to act like they’re going on a field trip to see the House of Representatives constantly.”

Listener Daniel Piotrowski

“Sometimes it seems like DC has a New York City inferiority complex, but it could take a cue from New York City.”

Listener Amanda Ravitz

“Really what I want to do is dress like a crazy person.”